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From: darus@chinet.chi.il.us (james wygralak)
Newsgroups: sci.electronics
Subject: Re: Anyone know about arc generators? `ffzzapp'
Summary: Jacobs Ladder
Keywords: DANGER! HIGH VOLTAGE!
Message-ID: <1990Feb1.030402.19932@chinet.chi.il.us>
Date: 1 Feb 90 03:04:02 GMT
References: <5237@vax1.tcd.ie>
Reply-To: darus@chinet.chi.il.us (james wygralak)
Organization: Chinet - Chicago Public Access UNIX
Lines: 51

In article <5237@vax1.tcd.ie> jfsenior@vax1.tcd.ie (K.) writes:
>OK,
>
>Sorry to post this here, but rec.arc.generators doesn't seem to exist.
>
>Can anyone give me DETAILS of how to build an arc generator, such as is seen
>in science fiction film of the 30/40's etc.
>
>I call it an arc generator, but I expect that is incorrect....
>
>A reference to a book or magazine article on the subject would also be helpful.
>
>            This is the sort of thing I mean:-
>                                              o    ^   o
>                                               \  ^ ^ /
>                                                \^   /
>						 \  /
>                                                  \/
>                                                ------
>Anyone have any idea what I'm talking about?
>
>Thanking y'all in advance.
>

Yes. What you are refering to is known as a jacobs ladder.
They are quite simple to build. They are also DANGEROUS
because they envolve very high voltage.

The first one I built used a neon sign transformer for the power supply.
The output was about 14,000 volts. Input was 120.

All you need is two metal rods in the shape of a V. It is best to have them
adjustable so you can vary the gap and angle. Connect one output terminal
from the transformer to each rod. 
Start with about a 1/4" gap on the bottom and a fairly shallow angle (close
to parallel)
Turn it on and see what happens. If it doesnt work, you just have to keep
adjusting it till it works.

WARNING: THE VOLTAGES INVOLVED ARE DEADLY! DO NOT TRY TO ADJUST THE RODS
WHILE THE POWER IS ON! YOU WILL GET VERY DEAD!

Also, do not operate near any flamable materials. The arc can start a fire
if it comes in contact with anything flamable.

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I make no warantees. Express or Implied. Use this information at your own risk!

Darus@chinet.chi.il.us            KA9LTY
Unemployed BSEET looking for a gig.
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