What is the Meaning of TCI Ignition System? TCI is the acronym for “Transistorized Controlled Ignition” system. One may also call it a “Transistor Controlled Igniter” system. You may ask details about “What is Transistorized Ignition System?” In this content, we will reveal all the basic info about TCI Ignition System. Also, find answers to the following questions. What is the function of TCI? What is TCI used for? Also, What is the principle of TCI? Or, What is the working principle of transistorized ignition system? What are the advantages of a transistor ignition system? Moreover, What is the purpose of the CDI?
What is Transistorized Ignition System?
What is transistor-controlled ignition? Basically, it’s an electronic ignition system. In this system, it turns on the ignition without a battery connection. It uses a power transistor to handle the high current. On the other hand, a very small current passes through the points that eventually switch the transistor on and off. In other words, the system needs a battery. With charge generating, at the specific points, the engine cycles the transistor SCR that releases those build-up charges to the spark plug.
The TCI features an electrolyte that helps kick-start. The electrolyte is compatible with all types of controls. For instance, ignition and vehicle load control by onboard CPU. A signal is sent to the coil by the TCI system. The coil generates a field and also accelerates the sparkplug’s movement.
How does a Transistorized Ignition System Work?
With the transistor being ON, the battery passes the current through the primary side of the ignition coil. This primary portion of the coil is known as coil hereinafter. The passed currently results in energy storage. However, the current is shut off when the Transistor is OFF. It results in a sudden change in the current. Thus, it generates high voltage on the secondary side of the coil. And the ignition starts.
Advantages of the TCI
See what benefits you will get due to a Transistorized Ignition System in your bike:
- Ignition is possible even without a battery connection.
- Relatively more economical or cost-effective than other ignition systems.
- Offers Built-in electrolytic capacitor for kick-start
- The system is enabled to provide heavier current through the coil and that too without burning the point.
- Compatible with all sorts of control.
Disadvantages of the TCI
Now let’s see the problem you are most likely to face because of the TCI ignition system:
- TCI is more prone to damage, especially if rainwater or dust falls on it.
- Demands comparatively more and frequent maintenance.
- Users may be required to reinstall the entire electronic system.
- Also, the system and components wear out too soon.
- Generally, the magnetic field doesn’t get enough time to build up to full strength.
What is the Difference Between CDI and TCI?
CDI’s full form is Capacitor Discharge Igniter. Unlike TCI, in the CDI system, the capacitor is charged via a direct connection. The charge may come through voltage from the ACG or the battery. All the electric load gets discharged at a time. It generates high voltage on the coil’s secondary side. And finally, the ignition and combustion processes begin. To notify more differences, let’s check some of the key features of the CDI system.
- Dumps a charged capacitor through the ignition coil in the presence of a spark
- Guarantees Stable ignition even up to a high RPM range
- Offers higher reliability at a cheaper cost
- Uses own step-up transformers
- In this system, Ignition is possible even without a battery connection, just like the TCI
- Another similarity as it also has a Built-in electrolytic capacitor for kick-start
- The compatibility characteristics also match with the TCI.
