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Re: Cold Cathode Transformer



Original poster: Steve Conner <steve@xxxxxxxxxxxx>

Cold cathode transformers are very probably current limited the same as NSTs. The reasoning behind this is that we know gas discharge tubes only work on a current limited supply. Without ballasting they just explode.

If you're in any doubt, you could connect a milliammeter across the HV output bushings (essentially shorting it through the meter) and ramp up the input voltage using a variac. You should see that the meter reads about the nameplate current rating - 120mA in your case - when you apply the full 120V to the primary. This is a somewhat more gentle test than just drawing arcs off it to see what happens.

Make sure your meter can safely carry more than 120mA. If the fuse blows, the full 15kV will appear across it and the whole meter will more than likely go to a fiery grave from internal arcing. For the same reason, don't touch the meter - and especially don't move the range switch - while the test is in progress.

Steve Conner
http://www.scopeboy.com/
"When a man is tired of Tesla coils, he is tired of life"

Tesla list <tesla@xxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
Original poster: "C. Sibley"

I have the good fortune of recently purchasing a
15000V, 120mA "Cold Cathode" transformer made my
Transco.

The gentleman that I bought it from told me that Cold
Cathode transformes are not current limited.