Glossary of Terms
- Alternating Current (AC)
- Current which varies from zero to a positive maximum to zero to a negative maximum to zero, a number of times per second, the number being expressed in cycles per second of Hertz (HZ)
- Alternator
- A device for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy.
- Amperage
- The strength or intensity of an electric current, measured in amperes (AMPS)
- Cradle
- The metal frame that surrounds and protects the generator/engine.
- Current
- The flow rate of electricity.
- Direct Current (DC)
- An electric current flows in one direction only. DC is produced by chemical action (i.e. a storage battery) or by electromagnetic induction.
- Full Power Outlet
- Enables you to draw the full power of the generator out of one outlet.
- Generator
- A general name for a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. The electrical energy may be direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC).
- Ground
- A connection, intentional or accidental, between an electrical circuit and the earth or some conduction body serving in the place of the earth.
- Idle Control
- A system that controls the idle speed of the engine in direct relation to the electrical load.
- Magneto
- An alternator with permanent magnets used to generate current for ignition in an internal combustion engine.
- Ohm
- Unit of electrical resistance. One volt will cause a current of one flow through a resistance of one ohm.
- Power Transfer System
- A system to safely wire your generator to your home's electrical system.
- Rated Voltage
- The rated voltage of an engine generator set is the voltage at which it is designed to operate.
- Relay
- An electrically operated switch usually used in control circuits and whose contacts are considered low amperage.
- Resistance
- Opposition to the flow of current.
- Rotor
- The rotating element of a generator.
- Single Phase
- An AC load, or source of power normally having only two input terminals if a load or two output terminals if a source.
- Stator
- The stationary part of a generator.
- Vibration Mount
- A rubber device located between the engine or generator and the cradle to minimize vibration.
- Volt
- The unit of electromotive force. That electromotive force which when steadily applied to a conductor whose resistance is one ohm will produce a current of one ampere.
- Voltage
- Electrical potential difference expressed in volts.
- Voltage Regulator
- A component which automatically maintains proper generator voltage by controlling the amount of DC exitation to the rotor.
- Watt
- Unit of electrical power. In DC equals volts times amperes. In AC equals effective volts times effective amps times power factor times a consistent dependent on the number of phases. 1 kilowatt = 1,000 watts.