If you have a voltmeter installed, a failed alternator will cause it to read ~12V (or ~24V) while a working alternator should show ~14V (or ~28V) The voltage regulator (wired in after the alternator) outputs a voltage higher than the nominal battery voltage so that the battery can charge. If the voltmeter reads the nominal battery voltage it may indicate a failed alternator. It can also indicate a bad voltage regulator. ---------- Depending on the type of ammeter you’re aircraft is equipped with it *may* show discharge vs charge current in which case a discharge indication could indicate a failed alternator or an alternator that can no longer supply the required current to operate all of your electronics and you are operating at a loss. If you aircraft only had a load meter you may not be able to determine anything but total consumption. [Lots of good info here if you are curious.][1] [1]: https://www.cfinotebook.net/notebook/operation-of-aircraft-systems/electrical