Chevrolet: alternators, meter check, voltage meter

Question
my car battery suddenly was comletely dead.  How can I tell if it is the battery or the alternator.

Answer
Hi Jim, sorry for the delay. Recharge the battery, start the car and with a voltage meter check the voltage at the battery terminals, it should be between 13.5 and 15 volts with the engine running. I hope this helps you if you need more info just let me know. Regards, Keith.