The cranking circuit consists of the following components, all of which are connected electrically:

The generator provides voltage in order to operate the vehicle's electrical system and to charge the battery. A magnetic field is created when current flows through the rotor. The magnetic field rotates as the engine drives the rotor. This creates an AC voltage in the stator windings. The AC voltage is converted to DC by the rectifier bridge and is supplied to the electrical system at the BAT terminal.

The regulator uses digital techniques in order to supply current to the rotor and thereby control the output voltage. The rotor current is proportional to the width of the electrical impulses supplied by the regulator.

When the ignition switch is turned ON, voltage is supplied to terminals L and F. This voltage turns on the regulator. Narrow width pulses are supplied to the rotor, creating a weak magnetic field. When the engine is started, the regulator senses generator rotation by detecting AC voltage at the stator through an internal wire. Once the engine is running, the regulator varies the field current by controlling the pulse width. This regulates the generator output voltage for proper battery charging and electrical systems operation.

The digital regulator controls the Check Charging System indicator with a solid state lamp driver. The lamp driver turns on the indicator whenever an undervoltage, overvoltage or stopped generator is detected.