Transcription
Hello. A solid-state Tesla coil is a type of Tesla coil that uses solid-state electronic components to generate high-voltage, high-frequency alternating current electricity. The use of modern semiconducting elements makes it possible to make such miniature and efficient devices.
In this video, I will present you a miniature Tesla coil that can be bought online for a price of several tens of dollars. The shipment contains several parts. This is a Tesla coil module, next a 48-volt, 1.2-ampere power supply, a needle through which the spark exits, as well as two small neon lamps and metal tweezers for presentation. It also contains short instructions in English.
First, about the physical dimensions of the device: they are 9 by 9 by 3 cm, and in that space, all the electronics are placed together with an aluminum cooler. Even at first glance, it is noticeable that the device is solidly made. The case is made of transparent plexiglass, so we can look inside without disassembling it. On the main PCB, several component assemblies can be easily seen.
The driver part is composed of several powerful SMD MOSFETs, two of type SUF6520 rated for 200 volts, 60 amps, and two smaller power MOSFETs which are mounted on a relatively massive aluminum heat sink. The other part represents an interruptor plus an audio modulator consisting of two NE555 timer integrated circuits, then an LM393 comparator, and an XL7005 step-down converter. And this part is a Bluetooth audio receiver for wireless and an input audio jack for wired audio communication. On either side of the power jack are two large electrolytic capacitors that provide enough power during short bursts of power.
On the front, there are two potentiometers: one for intensity and another for controlling the frequency of the interruptor, and a switch for selecting standard and audio input mode of operation. The so-called pancake coil is visible on the top side, and it is the most innovative and interesting part of this Tesla coil. It actually represents a PCB spiral coil with about 130 windings, and its calculated resonant frequency is 7.7 kHz. The primary is located on the underside of the PCB and contains one wider winding.
Now, let's see how the device works in real conditions. The spark is accompanied by a very loud sound that complements the excellent visual effect. The power is controlled with the left potentiometer, and the discharge frequency with the right.
We can place different shapes on the needle to get interesting visual effects. Here's what the discharge looks like through a thin circular disc.
Next, let's test the plasma sound options, noting that for proper functioning, we need to bring a so-called rectangular music signal to the input. For this purpose, I made a very simple Arduino project that actually generates a melody with this type of signal. This time, we will not dwell on the Arduino project, and the code and schematic diagram are given below. The sound is intense and clear, followed by a sharp spark that changes shape depending on the frequency of the audio signal.
And finally, a short conclusion. Despite the low price for this type of device, the test results are surprisingly good. Consumption is relatively low, and the device is adapted for long-term operation. The length of the sparking interruptor mode is almost 10 cm, and in music mode, regardless of whether the wired or Bluetooth mode is used, it works flawlessly, noting that the source music signal should have a rectangular shape. The beautiful visual effect is accompanied by an intense, clear sound that even more increases the overall impression.
Safety note: Please do not attempt to recreate the experiments shown in this video unless you are familiar with high-voltage safety techniques. Direct current, even above 60 volts, can be lethal even when the AC supply voltage has been disconnected due to the stored energy in the capacitors. I have no responsibility for any hazards caused by this circuit.
And at the end, let me mention that I bought the device mentioned above with my own funds, and the manufacturer has no influence on this review. This represents my personal opinion based on my previous experiences in making such devices.