The solid-state electronic regulator also has a two-wire hookup: a blue ignition-on wire and a green wire going to an alternator field; same-same. See All 7 Photos ...

The linear regulator's power dissipation is directly proportional to its output current for a given input and output voltage, so typical efficiencies can be 50% or even lower.

QUESTION: There are so many different voltage regulators on the market these days. How do I pick one that will be good for my circuit? ANSWER: Wow, this is a tough question, but also a good one. I ...