Most of the engine/generator controllers used today are digital and are designed to provide control of the generator. The controller system monitors the operation of the engine and generator functions.
Typical safety items include low oil pressure, high temperature, engine start over-crank, over/under frequency (speed), low coolant level etc. Modern digital controllers for residential or small business applications are typically a simplified LED indicators a start-stop button with or without auto-start. If the generator has auto-start, the controller can be used to interface with an automatic transfer switch or inverter/battery system to start and stop automatically.
Usually manual controls are provided on al generators including those with auto-start. Advanced controllers provides real time monitoring of volts, hertz and amperage in addition to the basic engine/generator safeties and auto-start functions. Complex controllers typically installed on larger generator systems provide engine safeties and shutdowns for low oil pressure, high temperature, engine start over-crank, over/under-speed, low coolant level and also have indicators for low fuel level, KVA output, KW output, power factor (PF), engine & generator gauges in real time. Larger generators often have a communication capability for remote monitoring and starting.
