Automotive generators can be classified into DC generators and AC generators. Since AC generators offer advantages over DC generators in many respects, DC generators have largely been phased out. AC generators are further categorized into the following types based on various classification methods:
Classified into five types based on overall structure:
(1) Standard AC Generator (also known as a "silicon-rectified generator"-a generator that requires the installation of a separate voltage regulator for operation).
(2) Integrated AC Generator (a generator in which the generator unit and the voltage regulator are manufactured as a single, integral assembly). *Example: Buick automobiles are equipped with CS-type generators (comprising three distinct models: CS-121, CS-130, and CS-144).*
(3) AC Generator with Pump (the pump attached to this type of generator is a vacuum pump-specifically, a vacuum *source* pump-rather than a vacuum *booster* pump, as the vacuum booster pump is a component of the vehicle's braking system).
(4) Brushless AC Generator (a generator that does not require carbon brushes for operation).
(5) Permanent Magnet AC Generator (a generator in which the magnetic poles are constructed from permanent magnets).
Classified into four types based on rectifier structure:
(1) Six-Diode AC Generator
(2) Eight-Diode AC Generator
(3) Nine-Diode AC Generator
(4) Eleven-Diode AC Generator
Classified into two types based on the grounding method of the field winding:
(1) Internally Grounded AC Generator: One end of the field winding (the negative terminal) is directly grounded (connected to the generator housing).
(2) Externally Grounded AC Generator: One end of the field winding (the negative terminal) is connected to the voltage regulator, and the grounding connection is established through the regulator.
