Voltage-Doubler Circuit

Not rated 10,859

Voltage-Doubler
Voltage-Doubler

D1, D2, C1, and C2 double the AC input voltage, charging capacitor C3 through resistor R1 to approximately 320 volts. Resistor R1 isolates the voltage doubler from the discharge capacitor C3, ensuring that capacitors C1 and C2 do not participate in the flashtube discharge path. Resistor R2 and diode D3 create a 16-volt supply for a relaxation oscillator comprised of resistors R3, R4, R5, R6, capacitor C4, and the Programmable Unijunction Transistor (PUT). This configuration gates the Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR) at approximately 60-70 times per minute, discharging capacitor C5 through the primary of the trigger coil, which in turn triggers the flashtube. Resistors R7 and R8 function as a voltage divider to maintain the voltage within safe limits for the SCR and capacitor C5. The flash energy produced is calculated as 320 x 320 x 0.0001 x 5 = 5.12 joules. CAUTION: Hazardous voltage exists within this circuit, capable of delivering a substantial shock, as is common with circuits powered from a 110-volt line.

The circuit operates by utilizing a voltage doubling technique through diodes D1 and D2, coupled with capacitors C1 and C2, which effectively increases the AC line voltage. The output voltage across capacitor C3 is regulated to approximately 320 volts, which is essential for the operation of the flashtube. The isolation provided by resistor R1 is critical, as it prevents the voltage doubler capacitors from discharging during the flashtube operation, thus maintaining circuit integrity.

The relaxation oscillator, formed by the combination of R2, D3, and the associated components (R3, R4, R5, R6, and C4), operates at a predetermined frequency, allowing for controlled triggering of the SCR. The SCR is responsible for managing the discharge of capacitor C5, which energizes the trigger coil. The repetitive discharging of C5 generates the necessary pulse to activate the flashtube, producing a flash of light.

Resistors R7 and R8 serve a dual purpose: they not only limit the voltage across the SCR, ensuring it operates within safe parameters, but they also help to stabilize the circuit against voltage spikes that may occur during operation. The calculated energy output of 5.12 joules indicates the potential intensity of the flash produced, emphasizing the need for caution due to the presence of hazardous voltages. Overall, the circuit is designed for efficient energy transfer while maintaining safety and reliability in operation.D1, D2, C1, and C2 double the AC line in, charging C3 through R1 to approximately 320 volts. R1 isolates the voltage doubler from the discharge capacitor C3 so that C1 and C2 do not participate in the flashtube discharge path. R2 and D3 form a 16-volt supply for a relaxation ocillator from parts R3, R4, R5, R6, C4, and the PUT.

This gates the SCR at approximately 60-70 times each minute, which discharges C5 through the primary of the trigger coil, thereby triggering the flashtube. R7 and R8 form a volt age divider to keep the voltage within safe limits for the SCR and C5. The flash energy produces 320x320x. 0001x. 5=5. 12joules. CAUTION: Hazardous voltage exists within this circuit that can deliver a substatial shock, as is the case with most circuits that are powered off of a 110-volt line.

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