Hy stovebolt409, A generator is a generator of direct current [D.C.] which is what vehicles use to function, an alternator is a generator of alternating current [A.C.] which is what your house runs on, in order to use it it your vehicle it must be changed back to D.C., this is accomplished by a process called rectification. Even with the rectification process alternators have the ability to produce more current [amps] than a generator, and they can produce current at idle r.p.m.s. Points are nothing more than a mechanical switch which is opened and closed by a multi lobed cam on the distributer shaft, 8 lobes for an 8 cylinder engine, 6 lobes for a 6 cylinder engine and so on, modern ignition systems use various devises to replace the mechanical switch [points] to accomplish the generation of the high tension spark, hope that helps.
