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Re: RE- caps, spark gap, and Science Fair




From: 	Edward V. Phillips[SMTP:ed-at-alumni.caltech.edu]
Sent: 	Saturday, September 13, 1997 11:08 AM
To: 	tesla-at-pupman-dot-com
Subject: 	Re: RE- caps, spark gap, and

Re: Science Fair
	I used to judge for these over  30 years ago.  I remember one
memorable project where a kid about 12 years old was exhibiting an
OBVIOUSLY home made CO2 laser; his demonstration was to melt holes in
fire bricks, which he was doing quite nicely.  Without, of course, any
sort of eye protection for anybody!!!!!!  The thing was powered by
multiple 15 kV neon transformers, arranged around haphazardly and
connected with ordinary house wire.  A real death setup if there 
ever was one.  Final feature was a very proud grandfather, 
sitting in a chair behind the laser where reflected light would get him
every time!!!!!
	I'll never forget this combination of really intelligent
ambition with total lack of guidance in any sort of safety.
Ed