What Exactly Does An Ign Amp Do?

[KRISKARRERA 2 1 Cars]

Does it amplify the ignition by any chance?

[Guest davemar]

It basically receives a simple low-current signal pulse from the ECU or distributor pick-up (depending upon what type of set-up you have) and converts this to a high-current capable pulse thats suitable for driving the low-impedance side of a coil. Its pretty much a transistor with the input going to the base and the collector going to one side of the coil. Its more of a switch than an amplifier, as the shape of the signal isn't really retained.

 

As it happens I think I need to look at mine, as after I've rebuilt my MI16 engine and got it started its running as rough as Anne Widdecome, so I think the signal isn't doing what it should. So I need to investigate what all the connectors are for, and what sort of signals I should expect on them.

[Rob_the_Sparky 10]

In simple terms it is the solid-state (no moving parts) version of a relay.