DON'T BUY this HV Generator! Build this one instead....please

Summary

In this video, the host critiques a cheap, uncertified high voltage generator sold on Amazon, deemed unsafe and illegal in Germany. Instead, he recommends a small, affordable high voltage transformer for safe experiments. The video explores its construction, the theory behind its operation, and demonstrates various arcs with different circuits, including a self-oscillating BJT circuit and a more efficient ZVS circuit. The host also investigates the effects of frequency on arc behavior, highlighting the educational value of proper high voltage experimentation.

Takeaways

• 😡 The script criticizes the sale of a dangerous high voltage generator on Amazon, highlighting the lack of safety certifications for such products in Germany.
• 🔌 The high voltage generator is compared to a taser, emphasizing the potential harm of high voltage arcs to the user.
• 🚫 The lack of legal certification on the device makes it illegal in Germany, which is a key concern raised in the script.
• 🔬 The script suggests that high voltage can be explored safely in a scientific context, with proper knowledge and precautions.
• 🎥 The video focuses on a safer alternative, a small high voltage transformer, which can be used for experiments to create different types of arcs.
• 🛠️ The script describes the construction of a transformer, including its ferrite core and windings, and the importance of understanding its electrical properties.
• ⚡ The video demonstrates the creation of an arc using a 4V input and a 2.8A current, showing the practical application of the transformer.
• 🔍 The script discusses the failure of a transistor in the circuit and the reasons behind it, such as high heat dissipation and voltage spikes.
• 🛑 The video attempts to replace the BJT with a MOSFET but finds that the circuit is not compatible due to the reliance on feedback current and low voltage levels.
• 🔄 The script explores the effects of different frequencies on the transformer's performance, noting the decrease in current draw at higher frequencies.
• 🔥 The final circuit presented is a ZVS (Zero Voltage Switching) circuit, which is more efficient and powerful, with a focus on safety and educational value.

Q & A

What is the main concern the speaker has about the high voltage generator sold on Amazon?

The speaker is concerned that the high voltage generator sold on Amazon is dangerous and potentially illegal in Germany due to the lack of certification marks. They believe it's being sold under the guise of a science experiment but could cause harm if mishandled.

What does the speaker suggest as an alternative to the unsafe high voltage generator?

The speaker suggests using a small high voltage transformer, which can be purchased cheaply online, to safely experiment and create different types of arcs.

What is the purpose of the plastic fins in the high voltage transformer?

The plastic fins are used to isolate high voltage sections from each other to prevent unintentional arcing over.

Why does the speaker believe the high voltage transformer is not suitable for use with MOSFETs?

The speaker explains that the circuit relies on feedback current and low voltage levels on the primary side, which makes it unsuitable for MOSFETs due to their different characteristics.

What is the approximate winding ratio of the high voltage transformer mentioned in the script?

The speaker calculates an approximate winding ratio of 1 to 3750 for the transformer, based on the assumption that it transforms 4V input to 15,000V output.

What is the role of the transistor in the high voltage transformer circuit?

The transistor in the circuit allows current to flow through the feedback coil into the base of the transistor, which in turn allows current to flow through the main primary coil, creating an oscillating cycle that induces voltage into the secondary coil.

Why did the speaker's initial circuit fail and what was the cause of the failure?

The initial circuit failed because the transistor burned out due to overheating, which is a result of the high collector-emitter voltage drop and large voltage spikes when the transistor turns off.

What is the significance of the different frequencies in the speaker's experiments with arcs?

Different frequencies affect the current draw and the behavior of the arcs. The speaker found that certain frequencies, such as 80, 120, and 250kHz, allowed for arc creation, while others did not. Additionally, the sensation of being shocked versus burnt changed with the frequency.

What is a ZVS (Zero Volt Switching) circuit and why is it used in the speaker's last experiment?

A ZVS circuit is known for its high efficiency due to its switching behavior at zero voltage. The speaker used it in the last experiment to achieve a more efficient and powerful arc creation, with the frequency set by the inductance of the transformer and the utilized capacitance.

What precautions does the speaker suggest when dealing with high voltage circuits?

The speaker warns that dealing with high voltage can lead to fatal injuries if not handled correctly, emphasizing the importance of safety when conducting experiments with high voltage transformers and circuits.

How did the speaker's experience with the high voltage transformer and different circuits contribute to the video?

The speaker's experiments were both entertaining and educational, providing insights into the behavior of high voltage circuits and the effects of different components and frequencies on arc creation, which was more valuable than the initial unsafe high voltage generator.