Homebuilt variac

[SirByrd]

Here is my latest project, took 2 days to build and finish.
Unit has a 10 amp variac but I won't be using it for more than 6 amps.
This is just a teaser photo, I'll take some better ones today.

[kevinkr]

Consider replacing the decora style outlet with a ground fault interrupter (GFI/GFCI) for a little bit of additional safety. Looks very nice..

[SirByrd]

I'll see if I can find one of the same shape laying around.

[kevinkr]

Originally Posted by SirByrd

I'll see if I can find one of the same shape laying around.

Definitely worthwhile, my whole bench is protected by a GFI and there have been a couple of occasions where I was glad it was there.

[simon7000]

Try getting a small audio transformer that you can pass the hot wire to the outlet between the coil and the core. Put a resistor on the output and connect it to a BNC connector that way you can look at the waveform of the current draw!

[SirByrd]

I don't have a scope yet, that is next!
Here are some better photos:

[Enzo]

Like new shoes, just wait until you get your first scratch on it....


Looks good and a very useful piece of equipment it will be.

[dave_gerecke]

Originally Posted by simon7000

Try getting a small audio transformer that you can pass the hot wire to the outlet between the coil and the core. Put a resistor on the output and connect it to a BNC connector that way you can look at the waveform of the current draw!

Along the lines of simon7000's idea, you can get current sampling transformers for just this purpose. I have some in my basement that I removed from scrapped equipment from work. Not sure how many are down there, but I may have some extra.

Peace,

Dave

[Pano]

Very nice. Don't think I've ever seen such a fancy variac. I like the two ammeters.

[SirByrd]

I'll ask around locally for current sampling transformers.