Increasing the amperage output of an alternator from stock requires a lot of changes. Every major component requires attention, and a very important one is the voltage regulator. This is the focus of the XS VOLT high amp systems for this year. The XS VOLT alternator operates as a one-wire alternator, meaning the only connection necessary is the charge wire (or battery output). It has all the circuitry necessary to automatically sense when the alternator is spinning, and therefore energize itself. But other terminals and connections are included for additional features. These secondary features include adjustable voltage, a dual voltage level mode, an indicator light drive, and a stator signal output, all making the XS VOLT very versatile. The XS VOLT alternator will be compatible with most OE computer systems (where applicable).

First of all, the voltage adjustment allows the user to change the set point of the voltage system while the unit is running. The set point is the level that the unit sees as the goal, the perfect level of the electrical system. On the XS VOLT, turning a small potentiometer on the back of the alternator can move this set point. The range is 13.5V - 18.5V, allowing one alternator to be used with 12V and 16V batteries -and anything in between. Charging sensitive gel batteries at low voltages or using the hybrid 14V batteries are not a problem for the XS VOLT. This means that one XS VOLT alternator will work with your car no matter what battery you choose.

The dual voltage level mode of this alternator is a new idea to the performance marketplace. This alternator actually has two operating levels. This can be used to conserve horsepower, or to create a voltage boost mode for competition car audio. By flipping a switch, the voltage could go from a drive-able level to the competition level. This mode is easy to use, as the signal to the regulator is simply a connection to the ground. This can be accomplished through a dash mounted switch, or some other means.

The XS VOLT also has an indicator light drive. This is a terminal that will illuminate a bulb when the alternator is spinning, but not charging. This can be used as a simple charging system monitor.

High amp alternators are made by changing the power output curve and fine tuning the pulley ratio. This involves changing the windings and the rotor coil. All of the changes in a high amp alternator increase the heat and load. A huge MOSFET transistor and heat sink insure that the XS VOLT can handle this increased load with capacity to spare. Made to take abuse, the XS VOLT is short circuit protected and has loss of ground protection. The entire circuit is sealed in epoxy, keeping water and grit out while isolating vibration.

Some components can make use of a stator output, and this is provided on the XS VOLT. In some street applications this terminal drives an electric choke. In other applications, this terminal drives a tachometer.

The majority of the high performance Powermaster racing alternators, and also select high amperage alternators are available as XS VOLT systems.