Related Terms • Coil-On-Plug Ignition (COP) • Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)

Definition: A mechanically driven device on an engine that is responsible for electrically firing the spark plug at a predetermined point of the piston stroke.

Related Resources:

The Ignition System
Here I discuss how the engine produces the spark and how it does it at the proper time.

Ignition Coils
How to inspect, test and replace the ignition coil in your car.

Point Type Ignition Systems
There are still plenty of point type igniton systems around. If you have an antique or classic car, this is something you should know about.