What is the difference between points and electronic ignition

When the current in the primary windings is interrupted, it causes that magnetic field to collapse, which creates a stream of energy from the secondary coil, which is then sent through the distributor cap and is then directed to the appropriate cylinder to fire the spark plug. Breaker points and electronic ignition create this interruption in different manners. The system works with a set of breaker points and, when those breaker points are in contact, the flow from the coils primary windings continue as normal.

When they separate, the flow is interrupted and the charge from the secondary coil passes through the system. The contacts of the breaker points are separated by a cam that rests on the shaft inside the distributor. As the cam opens the points, it interrupts the flow, creating enough current to fire the plugs. A condenser is also present to prevent an arc from jumping the gap between those points which would create a misfire.

Something to know about the points system is that it has as many strengths as it does weaknesses. Over time, the breaker points will wear down as do the condensers. You need to service that type of system and adjust them to accommodate for that wear and replace the breaker points more frequently than electronic systems.

Not only that, but the physical connection between the points is at the mercy of the environment. Daily conditions can have a direct impact on their performance as moisture and debris make their way inside the distributor. An electronic system solves the matter by eliminating the breaker points altogether. Instead, the distributor is fitted with a magnetic pickup that lines up with a reluctor wheel. This reluctor wheel has eight protruding points that line up with the magnetic pickup as the rotor lines up with contacts in the distributor cap.

When the pickup and the wheel line up, a pulse signal is sent from the ignition module to interrupt the flow of energy of the primary winding causing the secondary winding to discharge.

The result of eliminating the breaker points is a more complex system, but it is one that ultimately delivers more consistency and therefore better reliability. So, where does an MSD multiple spark discharge fit into this conversation? Select Language. Message Regarding Your Privacy. I accept Submit Submit.

Conventional Ignition System. Electronic Ignition System The need for higher mileage, reduced emissions and greater reliability has led to the development of the electronic ignition system. Distributorless Ignition System Newest type of ignition system. There are several advantages of not having a distributor: No timing adjustments.

No distributor cap and rotor. No moving parts to wear out. No distributor to accumulate moisture and cause starting problems. No distributor to drive thus providing less engine drag. Back Back to Technical Tips. Related Stories. Join our champion Mailing list Join. Electronic ignition systems typically use a transistorized switching mechanism.

CDI ignition : Due to its ability to start a motorcycle without a battery most of the dirt bikes uses this ignition. A dirt bike has no lights or horn whatsoever so it does not require a battery to power these electricals. Currently, we recognize four types of ignition systems used in most cars and trucks: conventional breaker-point ignitions, high energy electronic ignitions, distributor-less waste spark ignition and coil-on-plug ignitions.

The purpose of the ignition system is to generate a very high volt age from the car's 12 volt battery , and to send this to each sparkplug in turn, igniting the fuel-air mixture in the engine 's combustion chambers. The coil is the component that produces this high voltage. What is the difference between points and electronic ignition? Category: automotive auto parts. Do you need vacuum advance with electronic ignition?

How do you test an ignition condenser? How to Test a Condenser in a Small Engine. Remove the condenser from the engine. How do I know if my ignition module is bad? What does the ignition module do? How do you check ignition points? Does electronic ignition have spark plugs?

How many types of ignition systems are there? What does a condenser do in an electronic ignition system?

How does a distributorless ignition system work? Sign Up More Info. We notice you're using an ad blocker. Please consider allowing Autoblog.

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