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RE: Variac
Subject: RE: Variac
Date: Mon, 21 Apr 1997 10:12:36 -0400 (EDT)
From: Charles Brush <cfbrush-at-interport-dot-net>
To: Tesla List <tesla-at-pupman-dot-com>
>Hi,
>
>I`m on my way of finishing a nice 900 watt Tesla coil, I`ve finished the
>cap, the RQ spark gap and cleaning up the neons, Im now looking for a
>good
>variac, there`s a store in Ohio wich sells surpluss electrical eq., I
>asked if they had any good 10 amp variacs, they returned me a list of
>the
>variacs they had:
>
> For a new 18 amp 0-140v with knob and dial $185
> For a new 10 amp with dial and plate $130
> For a new 10 amp without dial and plate $105
> For a used 10 amp wihtout dial and plate $ 85
>
>
>Are these prices fair, should I go for the 18 amp one, or does anyone
>know
>a cheaper mail-order place where to get this beasties, I know I can get
>them for less at ham festivals but there are none here in MX.
Those prices are high, even by catalog standards. C&H (800 325 9465)
lists
a 20amp 120v General Radio unit for $125, and Fair Radio Sales (419 223
2196) lists a similarly rated Powerstat for $90.
As far as size goes, I'd suggest you get something a little larger than
your current needs might dictate. Once you get really bitten by the bug
(if you haven't already!), you'll be glad to have a unit that can easily
handle more power. So yes, I'd go for an 18 or 20amp one myself.
Zap!
Charles Brush
http://www.foundrygroup-dot-com/cbrush