Looking at the neon sign transformer, I wanted a way to control the actual output. The easiest way was a variac, but I didnt have one. Sure, I could buy one, but what fun is that.
Looking at the neon sign transformer, I wanted a way to control the actual output. The easiest way was a variac, but I didnt have one. Sure, I could buy one, but what fun is that.
After some looking around I got this one for 30 dollars.
It was bare, but that is ok. I looked around for a container for it, and could not find one that I liked. I considered building one out of wood, but chose against that as well. One option was to use a junction box from the hardware store, but those were 70 dollars. While I was looking for one that had the proper dimensions, I came across a toolbox and had an idea. Why not just use this :D 6 dollars and a peice of mdf and I think it might work. The people at the hardware store cut a peice of mdf the size of the “tray” that fit inside the box. I finished the rest of it with a small coping saw.
After some layout issues, I chose to just put everything on the mdf instead of cutting the toolbox. I cut the holes out by drilling the corners and again with the coping saw ripped them out. Since I was using outlet covers, accuracy isnt such a huge issue.
Next was the wiring and mounting of the components.
Then I secured the whole thing into the toolbox with a couple bolts and nuts.
The initial tests were great, I used a light to visually see the effect of changing the voltage. To test the amp meter, I hooked it up to an electric motor. All in all, the project works like a champ. The lamp just didn’t draw enough current to really move the needle.
I might build this, since I've been wanting a variac for a while. I like the toolbox enclosure.
Could you post links to where you bought everything, particularly the ammeter and voltmeter?
Could you post links to where you bought everything, particularly the ammeter and voltmeter?