> -----Original Message-----
> From: Alan B. Pearce [SMTP:A.B.Pearce@RL.AC.UK]
> Sent: Monday, January 22, 2001 12:44 PM
> To:   PICLIST@MITVMA.MIT.EDU
> Subject:      Re: [EE]: Design challenge - switching regulator - update
>
>
> Just what sort of generator is it? If using a car alternator, the diodes
> in
> these are usually rated at about 50V, and do not like running without a
> voltage
> limiting load (read battery).
>
Most modern alternators will survive running disconnected, after all, they
are voltage regulated.  What they really don't like is being disconncted
while running, as can happen if you have a loose battery connection.  The
resulting "load dump" will blow lamps and can damage radios etc.  Most car
electronic systems are supposed to be designed to cope with this situation.

Mike

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