Hyundai Repair: 2002 Santa Fe - altenator problems, altenator problems, reason check

Question
I have been having problems for a few years now related to my alternator.  It started happening around 1 year after purchase (bought new in '02).  If I have too many systems requiring power (lights, radio and A/C for example) at the same time, my battery drains (which indicates to me that the alternator can't keep up).  They (the service techs at the local dealership) said that there was a programming error in the computer, that affected idle speed while the A/C was on.  This lower idle speed was affecting the alternator's ability to recharge the battery.  I still continue to have this problem though.  My question is - did Hyundai not install a powerful enough alternator or is there something else going on?  Are there others having this same problem?  I have read some postings and see that there are others who have similar symptoms that I get when my battery is completely drained - things start to light up on the console for no apparent reason (check engine, brake, etc.) and my radio begins to turn itself off and on.
If you could shed some light on this, that would be great because it's driving me nuts.

Answer
It's possible the issue is with either the battery or alternator.  If the battery draws too much current from the alternator, the alternator may be unable to supply sufficient current to charge the battery and operate all your electrical devices.  Alternatively, a problem with the alternator can cause the same condition.

You should have a professional check of your battery and alternator performed.  I can give you guidelines to do a general check, but I'm afraid that in this instance the results could be misleading.  You'll want to have the check done by a shop with an excellent reputation for electrical work.