This document discusses the construction and operation of synchronous machines. It describes how synchronous generators have rotors that produce a rotating magnetic field from DC current in field windings. Synchronous motors have stators that produce a rotating magnetic field to turn the rotor. Large generators use brushless exciters to supply DC current to rotor windings without mechanical contact. Equivalent circuits are presented showing how armature reaction affects the relationship between internally generated and terminal voltages. Phasor diagrams illustrate voltage and current relationships for different power factors.