Video: Watch this demo
Description: The Jacob’s Ladder uses AC voltage with a transformer made of two wire coils in such a way to step up the voltage.
With an initial gap of about 1cm at the bottom, ~10,000Vac should create an electric arc that rises to the top of the two metal rods.
This process repeats itself.
Equipment:
- VariAC
- 23,000 Turn coil
- 250 Turn coil
- Two long metal rods
- Iron core inductor with Iron core clamp
- Abrasive pad
- VariAC to banana plug cable
Setup Procedure:
- Place both coils on the inductor clamp.
- Attach the end inductor and screw it on tight.
- Polish the metal rods with the abrasive pad.
- Insert the two metal rods into the 23,000 turn coild and set them to an initial air gap of about 1cm.
- With the VariAC off, connect the cable from the VariAC to the 250 Turn coil on tap point A and E (M would half the number of turns to 125, which makes the VariAC much more sensitive (not good)).
- Test to make sure the spark starts and moves up the ladder. Slight adjustments may be needed to the metal rods and VariAC. Never adjust the rods when the VariAC is on.
Demonstration Procedure:
- Turn on the VariAC.
- Sometimes it may take 5 seconds before a spark will start. If after 10 seconds nothing happens, try increasing the voltage or decreasing the spark gap distance (with the VariAC off).
- Slight adjustments may be needed to the VariAC to get the spark to start and travel up the ladder.
- If the spark starts but stays at the very bottom, decrease the voltage on the VariAC slightly (if the spark stays too long, the metal rods will burn).
- Do not use for long periods of time (Over 10 minutes of continuous use).
High Voltage / High Current.
Never touch the metal rods when turned on.
Due to the high current and heat, this is fire hazard. Keep away from flammable materials.