Posts Tagged: AC ripple

How to test for alternator AC ripple

Perform an alternator AC ripple test yourself with a multimeter Modern alternators/generators produce an AC voltage that’s converted into DC voltage using diode rectifiers. A diode rectifier, in simple terms, is a one-way valve that allows AC current to flow one way (it’s more complicated, but let’s go with this explanation). The rectifier “bridge” contains 3-8 diodes that allow only the negative portion of the AC sine way to pass to ground. Even when working properly, the rectifier bridge passes a small amount of AC current to ground. This is … Read More