very cheap alternator controller

[jkim1]

If you want a cheap alternator controller. To overcome diode splitters and such. Have a look at www.homepower.com/files/mark8.pdf
With a cheap DVM you can adjust the voltage exactly to 14,7 at the battery. I do think its best to put a small computer fan in the box to keep it cool. With a couple of switches you can keep the old regulator as well, and change from one to the other. Sorry but I dont know how to put a direct link in. If you do could you post it on the forum.
I made one and it works well, and it is cheap.

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[andyball]

<A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.homepower.com/files/mark8.pdf>instructions here</A>

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[William_H]

The site does have some good story on battery charging. The circuit for manual control of alternator field current hence charging is quite a viable option providing you monitor the current and voltage and don't forget to turn it off after a suitable time. Also be aware the voltage at the battery terminals required to induce large currents into the battery may be too much for your lights and other equipment. disconnect all loads when charging.
The automatic regulator circuit despite what the blurb says can not regulate current because there is no sensing of the charge current and so appears to be no more than a normal car regulator except it is easy to adjust the regulation voltage to overcome splitter diodes. ( I would still go for a voltage sensing relay and standard reg) regards will

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[andyball]

Another simple design <A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.amsterdamhouseboats.com/voltage_regulator.htm>here</A>

there are also a number of ic's available specifically designed for car alternator voltage regulation


external reg's that typically give 14.4V can also be used, & at under a tenner ?? may not be worth making one.



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[charles_reed]

Historical cycles

I remember, when all cars were fitted with dynamos not alternatorrs, the smart Alvi and Rolls used to have a variable charge rate via a rheostat.

On Austin 7s it was pretty simple to just get out and move the 3rd brush to increase/decrease charge rate.

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[jkim1]

Regarding the current control, it works by switching off the circuit a certain percentage of the time (duty cycle). The voltage control is the main control and overrides the current control. Which basically sets the maximum current. This may have the advantage of de sulphating the plates. I agree that there are single chip alternator controllers from ST electronics etc, but with plug in active devices the one on this site can be easily repaired. I basically put this on the forum so people can get a better regulator without going to the great expense of a commercial one.
thanks and regards to all.

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[halcyon]

Interesting idea, one thing to be careful of, it's designed for charging a battery, on a boat you are supplying loads at the same time. These could cause some problems with it's working, so if building bare this in mind.


Brian

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