I've got two in the garage that I've had for years. Hmmm I feel an ebay moment coming on.
Can anyone think of a use for a variac? I've "inherited" one with some stuff I brought its brand new and rs list them at £399, before I go to he trouble of testing it I'm curious if anyone can think of a use for it
I will take it if you don't want it? How big is it?
10 amp
Will test it this week n let u knw if it's working n we can go from there as I need to recoupe some cash
I ued to use one at work, very useful for product testing and repair of switch mode PSU's
* Most variacs are variable transformers that can generate up to and beyond mains voltage.
* Some variacs can be followed by an isolating transformer which allows you to safely work on switch mode PSU's
Some people use them for running foreign voltages and stick a bolt thru the adjustment knob.
Useful for foam wire cutting. As long as you keep the volts too low. Otherwise the wire melts and you get electrocuted. Still if used with caution very handy.
isn't there a fella on youtube doing mad "experiments" with one of ??
I have one it can be used for all sorts of things, but variable AC voltage is it's main use. Slowing motors, dimming lights, creating 110v etc,...
Used a lot by valve amp repair people for bringing voltages up slowly, useful for diagnostics.
£399!
I've got two in the garage that I've had for years. Hmmm I feel an ebay moment coming on.
I used to use one for testing that new products would work at the full range of European mains voltage: 200V - 264.V
If you have old euro 220V devices, you can use a variac to drop our 240V a bit.
You could use one to adjust the temperature of a soldering iron (or anything else that gets hot) or for dimming some types of light bulb.
quote:
Originally posted by gazza285
Used a lot by valve amp repair people for bringing voltages up slowly, useful for diagnostics.