Help on voltage regulators

[scottessex]

MySuzuki engine uses the regulator, I think it is a zener diode type. The sled had no battery, but had lights etc. What do I need to do to get regulated DC for the gauges and radio? :confused: Thanks!

[gyropilot]

Scott,

Read this article at California Power Systems about Utilizing Your Engine's Electrical Output (http://www.800-airwolf.com/pdffiles/ARTICLES/part33.pdf).

Also, the article Utilizing the Ducati Generator (http://www.800-airwolf.com/pdffiles/ARTICLES/Part%2049%20-%204%20page.pdf) might be helpful.

Even though these articles are geared toward Rotax engines, they should be helpful.

Best regards,

John L.

[Caribean_gyro]

never run any avionics with out a regulator or over protection device. in in the sistem. The spikes of the alternator or generator can blow your radio
Chuck

[Brent_Brown]

I use the KW system it is a no load Reg. works great about 60 bucks.

[Al_Hammer]

What's the rating of your lighting coil? I just looked into the Key West for possible use on a helicopter. The Key West regulator is rated at 16 amps max, and that's the input rating, not just the load rating. I called the manufacturer and was told that if the lighting coil/alternator can deliver more than that amount, it will overheat the thyristor which is used to shunt the output to ground when the voltage across the load exceeds 13.8 volts. The thryistor is rated at 20 amps, but the heatsink isn't big enough to handle more than 16. With a light load, most of the current is going through the thyristor. Its a wasteful method, but simple and effective. The Key West has an internal fllter which keeps electrical switching noise down, which is nice.

[gyropilot]

I use the KW system it is a no load Reg. works great about 60 bucks.Ditto here Brent.

John L.

[scottessex]

Thanks!
The manual lists the specs on the lighting coil output @ 12volt 150 watt, that is all I can find. I think that going with the KW is the way to go. That can be used with or without battery?

I pulled out the CPS catalog, lots of good info, I'll have to read up.

[Al_Hammer]

The manual lists the specs on the lighting coil output @ 12volt 150 watt, that is all I can find. I think that going with the KW is the way to go. That can be used with or without battery?


Yes, it works with or without. WIth 150 watt coil the KW should be fine.
:)

[scottessex]

Thanks Guys.

[automan1223]

Scott,

To find the amps rating of a 12 volt output that says you have 150 watt output you can use ohms law, or one of them.

I = Amps
V= Volts
R= Resistance
W= Watts

I x V = Watts

or in our case. W/V 150/12=12.5 amps

12.5 amps should be fine for a radio and a popcorn machine !

However if you are really cool get a small battery to take up the slack and control the ripple out of the regulator, lowers noise in elec circuit by acting as a buffer.

When I want max power I hook up my battery charger and disconnect my alternator belt. The only problem is the damn extensions cords keep getting tangled at 500' !!!

Jonathan

[scottessex]

I hate when the extension cords get tangled!

Thanks for the info, By the way I am going to stop by Radio Shack and pick up a couple of spare ohms, just in case. :D