RE: secondaries and caps

["Tesla list" <tesla@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Original poster: "Lau, Gary" <Gary.Lau@xxxxxx>

I have recently added a page to my Tesla web site, compiling the basic
steps, sequence, and guidelines to designing a coil.  Many of the "rules
of thumb" are not presently explained by any known (or at least simple)
laws of physics, but simply reflect what has been found to work best -
it's just the best we can do.  Please see
http://www.laushaus.com/tesla/howtodesign.htm

Some of the guidelines are unanimously accepted and some may not be.
Like everything you read on the internet, read everything you can, think
critically, and don't believe everything you see on the 'net.  Those who
can demonstrate results typically have the more correct opinions.

Regards, Gary Lau
MA, USA

> Original poster: ben eells <squeels2171@xxxxxxxxx>
>
> I'm sure this subject has probably been discussed here several times,
> but I haven't been able to find the answers I'm looking for. When
> designing a coil, what dictates the length, diameter, and wire gauge
> of your secondary, and how do you go about finding a capacitor that
> will work best with your transformer? I'm sure many people here have
> varying opinions on what works best so I would like to hear them.
> I've found length to width ratios of 4/1 or 3/1 but nothing saying "x
> diameter works best with y setup." The best answer I've found for the
> cap question is to consult a tesla coil design program, which is good
> advice, but I'd like to know the science behind it. Thanks.
>