A Capacitive Discharge Ignition (CDI) unit is a critical component in many small engines, motorcycles, and other internal combustion engines. Its function is to store an electrical charge and rapidly discharge it to the ignition coil, producing the high voltage spark necessary to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine’s cylinder. Evaluating the functionality of this component is crucial for diagnosing engine starting or performance problems. A faulty unit can lead to no spark, weak spark, or intermittent engine operation.
The ability to assess the operational status of this component can prevent unnecessary parts replacements and save time during troubleshooting. A systematic approach to testing reduces diagnostic guesswork and promotes accurate repairs. Historically, simpler ignition systems were used, but CDI systems offer advantages in terms of spark consistency and energy, making them widespread in modern applications.