Lythos's Page on Electricity

email: bdwyer@postnet.com

Intro to me:
I have an amateur radio license, KC1OUS, which I'm extremely happy to have. It comes in handy with all the electrical work I do. I have an interest all things that show off the beauty of electricity or that work in mediums unseen, ie. radio. I made this page to make it easier for other people to gain some of the knowledge that I have found.

DISCLAIMER: Neither Geocities nor I am responsible for any injury you might obtain from any actions that you take as a result of this page. HV projects, ie. Jacobs Ladders, Tesla Coils, etc. ARE VERY DANGEROUS. Certain frequencies can kill. If you are going to do any electrical project at least be supervised by an adult, or if you are an adult, be in the company of a peer.

The Tesla Coil

    I have to say, I have no idea of how these work, only guesses and a few links at the bottom of my page. If anyone can explain these in very, very simple terms, I would be so grateful.

I got this pic from one of the many sites I have visited in my search for a simple Tesla Coil Explanation ===========>
If someone could explain the parts and how to easily acquire and assemble them, that'd be helpful. I know that the top is a toriodal coil and that the brown cylinder is also a coil. But why do you need so many parts? What does each one do? Do not assume I know any technical terms beyond frequency or abnormal building materials.

The Jacob's Ladder

Here's something I know about. Be very cautious in making this and using it. Keep in mind that a Ladder will emit RF radiation and ozone, so if you have any TV reception problems while your Ladder is operating, I'd bet your neighbors do too, so try to change your transformer. And last, watch out, transformers are very finicky. I blew my latest one when I tested it on a light bulb, and I'm still trying to figure out how that happened.

    Consisting of mainly a HVAC source and 2 metal rods, Jacob's Ladders are very neat examples of electricity being transmitted through the atmosphere.

Materials:
-A transformer (the HVAC source) preferably 12-15 KV
Supposedly ignition coils are usable, but I can't find one and so I haven't used one.
-2 metal rods (you can use straightened coathangers)
-16 or 18 gauge wire
-soddering gun and sodder, advised

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