Hello Im new here, but Im not new to electronics. Ive been doing it for a couple years and pretty much know the basics+advanced stuff. Im learning MPUs on my own, but I have a question
I want to build a mini tesla coil or just something that will produce a 2-3 Inch Spark or even a mini Jacobs ladder.
I recently Salvaged a MOT (microwave transformer) and been doing some research on it. They can produce up to 2kV. Note: I will not connect it directly to 120 I have a plan.
Question a: I have 2 44.5V Transformers, that give somewhere around (Im estimating here) 1Amp. If I hook it up like this:
120-44.5 to Resistor to 44.5-120
I would have an isolation transformer correct? But with the resistor It would limit current to a safe level (just in case something bad happens).
Now, Question B: AM I better off Leaving it as a Sine Wave? Or I was thinking of building a transistor oscillator or 555 Timer and power the transformer using a TIP120 (because thats all I got on hand) or make a triangle (sawtooth) generator using opamps and then using the same transistor. Then Could I use MARX or Cockcroft-Walton Voltage multiplier to multiply the voltage? Which one should I use though?
Do they both take in AC and convert it to a DC voltage? If so the marx generator seems better then, so I wont have to waste money on diodes.
Again I want the unit to be semi small, portable, desktop like and produce around a 2 or 3 inch spark (or greater) or a mini jacobs ladder