GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND SYMBOLS BATTERY Stores chemical energy and converts it into electrical energy. Provides DC current for the auto's various electrical circuits. CAPACITOR (Condenser) A small holding unit for temporary storage of electrical voltage. CIGARETTE LIGHTER An electric resistance heating element. CIRCUIT BREAKER Basically a reusable fuse, a circuit breaker will heat and open if too much current flows through it. Some units automatically reset when cool, others must be manually reset. DIODE A semiconductor which allows current flow in only one direction. DIODE, ZENER A diode which allows current flow in one direction but blocks reverse flow only up to a specific voltage. Above that potential, it passes the excess voltage. This acts as a simple voltage regulator. DISTRIBUTOR, IIA Channels high-voltage current from the ignition coil to the individual spark plugs. FUSE A thin metal strip which burns through when too much current flows through it, thereby stopping current flow and protecting a circuit from damage. FUSIBLE LINK (for Medium Current Fuse) A heavy-gauge wire placed in high amperage circuits which burns through on overloads, thereby protecting the circuit. The numbers indicate the cross-section surface area of the wires. (for High Current Fuse or Fusible Link.) GROUND The point at which wiring attaches to the Body, thereby providing a return path for an electrical circuit; without a ground, current cannot flow. HEADLIGHTS 1. SINGLE FILAMENT Current flow causes a headlight filament to heat up and emit light. A headlight may have either a single (1) filament or a double (2) filament. 2. DOUBLE FILAMENT HORN An electric device which sounds a loud audible signal. IGNITION COIL Converts low-voltage DC current into high-voltage ignition current for firing the spark plugs. LIGHT Current flow through a filament causes the filament to heat up and emit light. LED (LIGHT EMITTING DIODE) Upon current flow, these diodes emit light without producing the heat of a comparable light. METER, ANALOG Current flow activates a magnetic coil which causes a needle to move, thereby providing a relative display against a background calibration. METER, DIGITAL Current flow activates one or many LED's, LCD's, or fluorescent displays, which provide a relative or digital display. FUEL MOTOR A power unit which converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, especially rotary motion. 16