The HEI distributor is an inductive-discharge-style ignition, but with the points replaced by a solid-state switching device called an electronic ignition-control module.

[Dan] wanted to learn a bit about solid state ignition in engines; to get started he needed a test subject, so he decided he would upgrade his old 12 horsepower lawnmower. Originally the lawnmower … ...

Here’s the ignition module in my hand, and the heat sink. Note that this unit apparently had heat sink compound applied at the factory (unless someone did the maintenance, which I highly doubt).I’ve ...