What type of current does the charging system create and convert?

The charging system in small engines typically creates alternating current (AC) from the generator or alternator, which is then converted into direct current (DC) to charge the battery and power the electrical systems of the vehicle. This process starts with the generation of AC due to the rotation of the alternator's magnetic field, which induces an electrical current.

Once this AC is generated, it needs to be converted into DC because most of the electrical systems, including batteries, operate on direct current. The conversion is typically achieved using rectifiers, which allow current to flow in one direction and block the reverse flow, effectively transforming the AC input into a usable DC output. This two-step process ensures that the engine's electrical systems receive the correct type of current needed to operate efficiently.

Understanding this conversion is crucial in small engine technology, as it impacts how charging systems are designed and function, influencing the overall reliability and performance of the engine's electrical components.