Abstract: In the present art, the closest detectable points in time that are available for electronic engine analyzers to ascertain of the functionality of most engines are the times when spark pulses occur. The present invention utilizes the output of driven electric power generators to both ascertain when those sparks (or similar signals in engines without sparks) occur, and to ascertain how engines are functioning between those sparks. The invention takes advantage of the fact that during the time between cylinder firings, the output voltage of engine-driven electric power generators is directly related to the instantaneous functionality of the engine. By displaying and analyzing the output of driven electric power generators, the invention's apparatuses and methods are able to show previously unavailable useful information related to the functionality of engines, including the compression inside each cylinder and the power produced by each cylinder.

Abstract: A spark detection apparatus and method for internal combustion engines that use sparks to ignite their fuel is disclosed. The detection apparatus includes a spark detector with improved accuracy, safety, and ease of connection over the current art.