This paper presents modeling and simulation of the operation of an 11-phase brushless exciter. The analytical method is based on Kron's tensor method, which is developed for dealing efficiently with the time-varying topology of an exciter circuit during a digital computer solution. The inductances, which are variable with rotor position, are calculated by the two-dimensional finite-element method. The detailed information (normal and fault cases) on the performance of the brushless exciter is obtained, which is beneficial to design engineers. The approach is suitable for both normal and fault cases. As a result, agreement of calculated values with test results shows the validity of the method of calculation and theoretical analysis presented.