Would amateur be able to take the flash out of a disposable camera and

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the feasibility of repurposing the flash mechanism from a disposable camera into a circuit that can be activated by a switch or button. Participants explore the practical aspects of this project, including safety concerns and recommendations for materials, while addressing the knowledge level of someone with minimal experience in electronics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the realism of creating a circuit with a disposable camera flash, expressing a lack of experience and seeking guidance on resources.
  • Another participant shares their experience of successfully creating a "flash bomb," warning about the high voltage of the capacitor and the potential for electric shock.
  • Several participants discuss the safety risks associated with handling the flash mechanism, emphasizing the importance of using one hand to avoid current passing through the chest and the dangers of wet hands.
  • A participant recounts their method of disassembling a disposable camera, retaining the necessary components, and highlights their limited electronics knowledge while cautioning against the project for inexperienced individuals.
  • There are suggestions regarding sourcing disposable cameras, with one participant noting that drugstores or malls may provide them for free as they recycle the batteries.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a consensus on the safety risks involved in working with high-voltage capacitors. However, there is no clear agreement on the suitability of the project for beginners, as some caution against it while others share their successful experiences.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the high voltage associated with capacitors in disposable cameras and the potential for electric shock, indicating a need for careful handling. The discussion reflects varying levels of experience and knowledge among participants.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in DIY electronics projects, particularly those considering repurposing components from disposable cameras, as well as those seeking safety advice in handling high-voltage devices.

Vlfe
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...set it up in some kind of circuit in which I can press a button/ hit a switch and have the flash go off?

I need to create and electric device of some sort, and seeing as I have a bare minimum supplies, I thought this may be plausable. I also need to draw circuit diagram to this.

I am in basic physics, having just learned about electric potential, and fields and now moving onto electric currents, for which this assignment is catagorized under.

So my question, does this seem realistic, for having absolutely no experience in creating electronical devices? Are there any online resources where I could seak help in doing so? Do you have any suggestions?

Thank you for your time :)
 
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I did it. Made a flash "bomb".

Be warned: The capacitor carries very high voltage - enough to give you a deuce of a shock and leave a burn!
 
Do you recommend any certain kind of camera? Any tips or suggestions? I really am quite lost in how I am going to manage doing this.
 
Vlfe said:
Do you recommend any certain kind of camera? Any tips or suggestions? I really am quite lost in how I am going to manage doing this.

I used a disposable camera. Tore it apart, keeping the circuit board, with capacitor, flash, and battery and button.

Now, I have just enough electronics knowledge to get into trouble, and I did work in photography at the time, so I wasn't totally in the dark.

I caution you again, this may not be the project for someone who is not experienced. These capacitors operate with hundreds of volts and can give you quite a wallop. When I was working on this, to prove a point, I shorted the contacts across a screwdriver. It left two burn divots in the screwdriver. That could be your finger.
 
the shock can be painful.
use one hand only so it can never go through your chest..
never handle with wet hands.

1-hour photolab at drugstore or mall will probably give you a sackfull of disposable cameras for free. saves them recycling the batteries.
 

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