The days of a simple dc-charging subsystem in a car consisting of an alternator, rectifying diodes, basic regulator, and battery are nearly gone—no question of that. Now, the 12-V automotive regulator ...

Your car won't start for the second day in a row. You ask your neighbor for a jump (again) and head off to work — late, of course. You come to the conclusion that it has to be the battery or the ...