Recent content by sepulker

Modern dimmer switches implement semiconductor-based hysteresis devices called thyristors (specifically TRIACs) which take advantage of break-over voltages much like neon-tubes and lightning bolts do. Read about them: http://www.allaboutcircuits.com/vol_3/chpt_7/6.html

Go to my website www.abiscus.com and go to the rectified power supply link. On that page you'll find a PDF file explaining the theory behind rectification. For a fullwave rectifier, the equation for the capacitor C is: C = Vp / ( 2 * R * f * Vr ) where Vr is the voltage ripple, f is the...

The absolutely EASIEST approach to your problem (for you) is to buy a BASIC Stamp Programming Kit manufactured by Parallax. This is basically a standardized and simplified microcontroller interface intended for educational and hobbyist uses. There is an entire chapter devoted to exactly what...

On Ebay, I found Nippon Chemi-Con capacitors rated at 400V 3600UF. The guy has 60 available. So let's see... each one can hold 288J each. If I buy 10 and split the stack, that's 9000UF at 800V (i think that's right?) at around 2.9kJ. I can stack it more for a better approach to a spark gap...

Right, I was assuming two. I have another question: I want to increase the maximum voltage I can put into the bank. Assuming all capacitors are the same model... is it healthier to: 1. Stack capacitors in series 2. Use a voltage doubler like the Cockroft-Walton It would be interesting...

Yes, "you would then continue winding clockwise back TOWARDS your starting point"... all in the clockwise direction. Key word is clockwise. Ferrite cores are used for a lot of solenoids and all flyback transformers found in TV sets. Ferrite is used because it has a high magnetic permiability...

TimeKeepsMeUpAtNight: Back and fourth? I am just curious as I am just learning all this stuff but it would seem to me that the current would oppose it self being that it would be coiled in multiple directions. -No. Remember the fourth Maxwell Equation: Ampere's Law, which translates into...

Because I'm on vacation and I don't have them with me haha. But you answered my question about the markings. Now I am almost 100% sure theyre microfarads. Thanks SIDE QUESTION: I don't want to spend time doing the analysis... What are the differences in charging time, energy, etc of...

Try tackling the problem systematically... Convert the circuit to the Laplacian equvilent (i.e. C becomes 1/(Cs) and derive the transfer function. The only special things you have to remember are: a. For an ideal op-amp, the currents entering the inverting and non-inverting terminals is...

They are probably about 8 inches tall with a diameter of about 4 inches (which would make a lot more sense for a smaller capacitance) So industry standards aren't as concrete as I thought?... some companies use an "M" and some use a "U" for microfarads?

Yeah, they definitely say 1800MF (and not 1800UF)

I am pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering with a minor in Physics, and I am almost done with my 4th out of 5 years ar Northeastern University (go SOX!) in Boston. I have a solid grasp of most theories related to the field. However, exploiting my knowledge upon a physical device for the...