Power Control


Posted on Feb 5, 2014

The circuit below is similar to designs using unijunction transistors to generate the triggering pulse. The unijunction is replaced by a two-transistor `flasher` circuit that drives a pulse transformer. This type of circuit gives a wide range of control while exhibiting little hysteresis or line voltage sensitivity. The two diodes rectify the line voltage such that the flasher sees a positive voltage pulse on each half-cycle and, after


Power Control
Click here to download the full size of the above Circuit.

a delay set by R and the 0. 1uF capacitor, the flasher circuit triggers the triac. The capacitor discharge is deep so the dimmer starts fresh on the next half-cycle. Note that the triac always gets the same polarity of trigger pulse. The dimmer may be controlled in a number of ways. The first option for R shows a typical mechanical control and the second option shows the use of an opto-isolator for electrically controlling the dimmer. The electronic control would be useful in applications like computer control, color organs, power flashers, heaters, speed controllers, and other feedback systems. The base of the PNP is another sensitive spot to add control but the designer must remember that the whole circuit must be floating and large voltage swings are present. Remember, the entire circuit is "hot" and dangerous! Line power circuitry should be constructed only by qualified persons. GFI breakers are always a good idea! The flasher could be powered from a full-wave rectified transformer secondary if line isolation is desired. Do not filter the rectified voltage or the circuit will not work properly. Use a fairly high voltage secondary, perhaps 50 VRMS to get full power control. (Lower if using a 2N4401. ) The circuit will generate significant RF noise and a line filter is recommended. (It is usually pretty easy to find potted line filters in surplus catalogs. ) Also, make sure to include a fuse, as indicated. The circuit may...




Leave Comment

characters left:

Related Circuits

  • New Circuits

    .

     


    Popular Circuits

    Christmas Star with LEDs
    30MHz 500 watt linear tube amplifier
    Efficient-switching-controller
    solid state relay
    the simplest fm transmitter ever made
    Simple Sixteen Stage Bi-Directional LED Sequencer
    40w no tune amp
    8-direction Digital Compass Using Z8 Encore
    h bridge driver circuit
    28 LED Clock Timer
    Luminescent Generator
    Pump Controller For Solar Hot Water System
    Battery status indicator circuit diagram



    Top