Alternators are ac generators. They convert mechanical power into alternating-current electrical power. The term generator creeps into the language of ac circuits and systems. Technically, though, the term generator is reserved for dc power generation, while alternators apply to ac power generation. On the other hand, there is NO confusion when people refer to alternators as “ac generators,” so indignation would be misplaced when using that term, even in polite conversations...
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