The following is my version
of an idea from the Phantasmechanices web site. Please read all directions
carefully and note the disclaimer at the bottom of this page.
http://www.phantasmechanics.com/fpilot.html
By using an extension cord as the basis of this
project it not only allows you to plug any light into it, but more importantly
the extension cord give you the ability to plug two lamps (bulbs) into the cord.
I use two 25 watt bulbs (red or red and yellow?) and a 5A fuse.
Total construction time for this project was
15-30 minutes.
| Tools:
I used a pair of side cutters (wire cutters), a knife
and electricians tape.
|
|
| In addition I used a soldering iron and
solder.
One could use wire nuts on the wire, but they will not
attach the wires to the fluorescent starter.
|
|
Parts:
I bought a cheap extension cord (97 cents at home
depot), a fuse holder from Radio Shack (Part #270-1281), and a fluorescent
starter (FS-5). Important: Do not use FS-4. Haunters
report the FS-2 and FS-5 work, but the FS-4 DO NOT WORK.
Total Cost about $5
|
|
| Step #1:
Using the knife, carefully cut the extension cord to separate
the two wires. Be VERY careful NOT to knick or cut into the plastic coating
exposing the copper wire. Once the cut is started you can separate the
wire by hand.
|
 |
| Carefully pull the wires apart for about 3-5
inches. |
 |
| Step #2:
Cut one of the wires.
|
 |
| Step #3:
Strip the plastic off the wire. You will need more wire
exposed on the side you will connect to the started.
|
 |
| Step #4:
Connect one end of the fuse holder to the wire.
|
 |
| Step #5:
Solder the connection.
|
 |
| Step #6:
Connect the starter to the other end of the fuse holder
and the remaining exposed wire on the extension cord.
|
 |
| Step #7:
Solder wires to starter. |
 |
| Step #8:
Tape all connections well.
Insert a 5 amp fuse in the fuse holder. |
 |
| Step #9:
You are now finished. All you have to do is test the
flicker circuit. You can plug the extension cord you have been working on
into the wall and after placing the bulbs you want into any light socket
and the light socket into the extension cord you should be up and
running.
I use the flood light sockets (but not the flood light
bulbs as they are usually 100 watt and I think that's too much current for
the flicker circuit).
|
Disclaimer: I present this
as an example of what I have done. I make no warranty as the the safety or
appropriate use of this project. You follow my directions completely at
your own risk. |
