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From: frankb@hpsad.HP.COM (Frank Ball)
Newsgroups: sci.electronics
Subject: Re: Anyone know about arc generators? `ffzzapp'
Message-ID: <1840024@hpsad.HP.COM>
Date: 2 Feb 90 01:09:03 GMT
References: <5237@vax1.tcd.ie>
Organization: HP Signal Analysis Division - Rohnert Park, CA
Lines: 22


*I don't mean to be a killjoy, but neon sign transformers are ***not***
*low-current devices (Tesla coils are).  They will source 30 mA without any
*problem and will do so at over ten kilovolts.  That is cardiac standstill
*and a nasty frying fat smell when the body is found.

*BTW, I have a surplus neon sign transformer and have been meaning to get
*around to building a Jacob's ladder with it.  What's a good insulator
*to use for the base?

I got a NEW Jefferson 15 KV 60 mA transformer for $58 from a surplus
store.  A friend in the sign business said thats half of wholesale, so 
I figure it was a good deal.  Yes this can definiatly be dangerous.  
Use the one hand rule (keep one hand in your pocket or behind your
back when the power is on) so if you do get a shock, it hopefully
will not be applyed across your heart.

I just use the transformer as a base.  I use some steel wire, about 14
gauge for the electrodes.  Connect the wire to the transformer terminals
and bend as necessary.

Frank Ball          frankb@hpsad.HP.COM