02-16-2007, 12:31 AM
possibly because it will fry the diodes, and then it doesn't make any power, or it isn't one of the designs that self-regulate itself. Many can't. Many need a battery to act as a "shock absorber" and as something to push against.
And many need the battery as a refference voltage, so the voltage regulator can adjust the field output to generate the proper voltage and current. Without the battery to act as a moderating load with internal resistance, the regulator will chase field current up and down trying to keep a constant output. Pretty much like 2 dogs running in a circle trying to get the other's tail.
The self regulating ones are frequently the one wire versions, but not always.
Had you said "That may be the case, but I do have some automotive practical experience that says many modern cars just STOP DEAD when the battery is disconnected. " you would be correct.
And many need the battery as a refference voltage, so the voltage regulator can adjust the field output to generate the proper voltage and current. Without the battery to act as a moderating load with internal resistance, the regulator will chase field current up and down trying to keep a constant output. Pretty much like 2 dogs running in a circle trying to get the other's tail.
The self regulating ones are frequently the one wire versions, but not always.
Had you said "That may be the case, but I do have some automotive practical experience that says many modern cars just STOP DEAD when the battery is disconnected. " you would be correct.