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Old 04-25-2011, 11:16 PM
Magellan Magellan is offline
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Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Portland, OR
Posts: 45
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Having read this thread and many others, I think I have a good understanding of what needs to be done in each scenario, but am still not sure how to decide what path to take.

I will take a stab at answering my own question, and maybe someone can confirm or deny what I say.

Option 1: Float the AC Ground
Pros: simplifies installation of any future accessories/lights since you can ground everything to the frame.
Consistent light output (no drop at idle)
Cons: Requires modification to the stator wiring itself

Option 2: Isolate the DC Ground
Pros: No mods to the stator wiring
Can still use AC if you want (any practical advantage to this?)
Cons: Need to maintain separate ground path for all DC components
Risk of damaging something if you short to the frame?

What I feel is missing from my list:
Is DC less efficient than AC (maybe a reason to keep AC power available?)
Is there a cost difference in regulators for either option?
I think both options can utilize a battery, so no difference there.

Does that about cover it?

Thanks,
MCP
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