Re: SSTC does 10 foot sparks

["Tesla list" <tesla-at-pupman-dot-com>]

Original poster: Sean Taylor <sstaylor-at-uiuc.edu> 

I don't see why you are stuck on measuring energy in and out.  Don't worry 
about the energy into a coil, as the power contains all the information 
needed (well, not all, but give a good idea of what the coil is 
consuming).  As for output, the debate continues as to how to compare 
output.  Of course, spark length is the easiest thing to measure, but a 
good metric for frequency of strikes is needed.  Also not considered on the 
output here, directly at least, is the streamer current.  Perhaps those 
with the capability could measure the peak current at the base of the 
secondary for a second parameter for performance, as well as breakrate.

There are many unknowns in the output of a Tesla Coil and can not be easily 
measured.  However, computer simulations have gotten so good and close to 
real life circumstances that we don't really have a choice now but to 
believe the results they give us, despite the fact that we can't measure 
everything and compare the results.  People can claim whatever they want 
for the output of their TC, but it seems to be that it's not just a pissing 
contest, but a difference in what we see for the potential (no pun 
intended) for output - ie max spark length, or straigh spark length, 
etc.  It has been discussed several times how we can standardize measuring 
output, and there isn't much to do unless we can get everyone to run there 
coils at Standard Temp. and Pressure, with known humidity for a known 
amount of time and count the number of strikes for a given length in the 
known time - not very realistic.  As Terry realized a while ago, his 
GMIHESLR (did I get that all right?) record was skewed because he's at a 
higher elevation in Colorado than other competing and was able to get a 
longer spark length because of this.

Sean Taylor
Urbana, IL

On Mon, 21 Jun 2004 08:03:02 -0600, Tesla list <tesla-at-pupman-dot-com> wrote:

>Original poster: "john cooper" <tesla-at-tesla-coil-dot-com> Very intersting 
>stuff, how do we agree on a baseline or procedure for energy in/energy out 
>measurements?  Or am I asking too much?  I'd be most interested in someone 
>describing and identifying the equipment/measurement techinques necessary, 
>then we can either follow those procedures or 'wave our dix in the air' 
>claiming whatever.
>John