Re: [TCML] neon sign power supplies

[sparktron01@xxxxxxxxxxx]

Tim

They are NG for Tesla Coil Service.  They are a mains rectifier and 1/2 bridge
converter, driving a HF/HV transformer in CONSTANT CURRENT mode.
A HV GFI current imbalance circuit is integrated into the drive electronics
as an independent circuit and this functionality CAN'T BE DEFEATED.    :^C
Normal fo is in the 20-50kHz range.

With the proper rectifier on the HV side, however, they would probably really
work well for HV capacitor chargers (for can crushers, coin shrinkers, etc.).
They have excellent PF (0.85 minimum) and high efficiency (90% +).  This
with green concerns is forcing the conversion to SS electronics.

I have run one as a JL with some success (12kV, 30mA) without GFI trips,
unless HV is shorted or arced directly to case ground.

Regards
Dave Sharpe, TCBOR/HEAS
Chesterfield, VA USA

 -------------- Original message ----------------------
From: "Tim Meehan" <btmeehan@xxxxxxxxx>
> I noticed that there were some newer smaller boxes that were being sold
> online for powering neon signs - they are smaller and lighter than a
> transformer, and I am guessing from the website that it is more than a
> transformer in the little box.  Do any of you have any experience with these
> things?  Are they as good as neon sign transformers?
> 
> If they are essentially the same thing (or better) I want one - because they
> are smaller and lighter (and therefore more portable for my small spark gap
> coil).
> 
> As an example of what I'm talking about:
> http://www.neoncentral.com/catalog.jsp?pageName=PS
> (no idea if the prices or good, if they are reputable, etc.)
> _______________________________________________
> Tesla mailing list
> Tesla@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> http://www.pupman.com/mailman/listinfo/tesla

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