In a vibrating points regulator, how is voltage sensed?

In a vibrating points regulator, how is voltage sensed?

• A. current coil
• B. voltage regulator
• C. capacitance sensor
• D. voltage coil

Answer: (D)

In a vibrating points regulator, sensing the system voltage is essential to decide how the regulator should act. That sensing is done with a voltage coil. This coil is wired to pick up the generator’s output voltage and provides a signal proportional to it to the regulating mechanism. When the output voltage rises, the voltage coil energizes more and causes the vibrator to adjust the points’ timing so they open more often (reducing excitation) and bring the voltage back down. If the voltage falls, the coil de-energizes and the points vibrate less, allowing more excitation and raising the voltage again. This direct voltage sensing keeps the output near the desired level. The other options describe sensing of current, a capacitance-based sensor, or a different type of regulator, none of which is the standard method used here.

In a vibrating points regulator, sensing the system voltage is essential to decide how the regulator should act. That sensing is done with a voltage coil. This coil is wired to pick up the generator’s output voltage and provides a signal proportional to it to the regulating mechanism. When the output voltage rises, the voltage coil energizes more and causes the vibrator to adjust the points’ timing so they open more often (reducing excitation) and bring the voltage back down. If the voltage falls, the coil de-energizes and the points vibrate less, allowing more excitation and raising the voltage again. This direct voltage sensing keeps the output near the desired level. The other options describe sensing of current, a capacitance-based sensor, or a different type of regulator, none of which is the standard method used here.