Solid-state ignition

b y solid-state ignition system has engine cylinder via the spark-plug. The distributor ensures that the high tension is applied to only one cylinder at a time. The distributor is driven by the engine at half engine speed. In the solid-state ignition system the function of the contact breaker points is transferred to a transistor switch: the points merely serve to trigger the transistor. Because of the consequent appreciable reduction in current flowing across the points, these become virtually free of wear. The timing diagrams in Fig. 2 show the differences between the ignition pulses generated in the two systems. When the points in the coil ignition system are closed, no current flows through the primary of the coil. Note the overshoot and ringing occurring at the secondary immediately after the points have closed. These phenomena are caused by stray EE I January 1986 Hans Steeman A full many advantages over conventional systems. It will, for instance: • enable the engine to b...