RE: [TCML] Spark gap

["Lau, Gary" <Gary.Lau@xxxxxx>]

I would attempt some sort of low-pass filter at the receiving end - so that each bang results in a single blip and any stray HF stuff is attenuated.  But I think I tried as much, unsuccessfully, as had I been successful, I could have just fed the result into a counter with a suitably long time base for a good average PPS count.  Good luck!

Regards, Gary Lau
MA, USA

> -----Original Message-----
> From: tesla-bounces@xxxxxxxxxx [mailto:tesla-bounces@xxxxxxxxxx] On
> Behalf Of bartb
> Sent: Monday, February 25, 2008 9:46 PM
> To: Tesla Coil Mailing List
> Subject: Re: [TCML] Spark gap
>
> Hi All,
>
> With this thread, measuring static gap bps came up. I will attempt this.
> I can record hours of run time if needed, but of course I'll record say
> a 10 minute run. This should give plenty of data for bps acquisition.
>
> I'll use a device specifically for data acquisition. This device plugs
> into my pc via shielded USB and can accept up to 60Vp-p signals.
> Although I do have the high speed unit capable of 14,400 samples/s, I'll
> set the sample rate only to what is needed for a decent view. The device
> however doesn't need to be near the coil (USB's are very prone to noise
> which causes device hardware connections to be lost). So, I'm thinking
> of using optics for isolation.
>
> Here is my very simple strategy:
> * Hook up fiber cable near first gap to capture the light created by the
> spark (where it will always issue).
> * Convert light to DCV at opposite end.
> * Record voltage output over 10 minute run.
>
> Although I may go further with this, I'm just looking at getting the bps
> data with the gap as is to start.
> This is only to measure bps and nothing more.
>
> I've used this device for acceleration impact testing up to 1050 LB load
> dropped at various heights and even for a 2 week non-stopped testing of
> cycle times on actuation devices.
>
> But, I thought it wise to run by the TCML and see if anyone has tried
> anything like this with a static gap or similar and has any advice I
> should consider before I start. I'm not sure how the light source will
> stop and start at the gap.
>
> Take care,
> Bart
>
> _______________________________________________
> Tesla mailing list
> Tesla@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
> http://www.pupman.com/mailman/listinfo/tesla
_______________________________________________
Tesla mailing list
Tesla@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
http://www.pupman.com/mailman/listinfo/tesla