dwell: [1] In a contact breaker ignition system, the number of degrees the breaker cam rotates from the time the breaker points close until they open again. Also called the "dwell angle" or "dwell period." [2] In a breakerless ignition system, the time during which the electronic control unit allows current to flow through the primary winding of the coil, which in ignition systems with a Hall generator is determined by the width of the vanes. Also see variable dwell

dwell angle: See dwell.

dwell-angle control: A system which makes sure that the dwell is sufficient for all engine conditions

dwell-angle map: The pattern described by the electronic dwell-angle control, dependent on engine speed and battery voltage

dwell meter: An instrument which determines the number of degrees the breaker cam rotates while the breaker points are closed. Changing the point gap affects the dwell angle. When the breaker points are correctly gapped, the distributor can give the proper amount and duration of spark to the spark plugs.

dwell period: The time during which the primary circuit is closed and primary current flows through the ignition coil, given in crankshaft or distributor shaft degrees and therefore also called dwell angle. See dwell.