Description: This is a Dim Bulb Tester Current Limiter for Stereos, Amplifiers Guitar ampsA helpful tool for tube or solid state electronics including a Standard 100 Watt incandescent bulbALSO INCLUDES built-in VOLTMETER! A NEW 100-watt incandescent light bulb is included for testing most tube circuitsAlternatively, A 25-35 bulb watt can be employed for testing solid state amplifiers, while a 60 watt bulb would match an all-american-five tube style table radio. Generally the 75-100 watt bulb works well for servicing tube electronic devices, I have found that 150W or more is helpful for devices which also contain motors. I like to gather and keep a set of various wattages for different gear. This unit is fully built and tested on my bench before I send it to you, should be fully ready-to-use. The switch is for turning everything off/on and could easily be re-wired as a bypass switch if desired. The meter is directly connected to the bottom outlet measuring the voltage your tested item will see. A dim bulb tester, also known as a light bulb current limiter, is a simple and effective device used in electronics to limit the amount of current flowing through a circuit. The main component of this device is a standard incandescent light bulb, usually of low wattage. The 100 WATT bulb is connected in series with the circuit under test and it will limit current from the full 15 watts down to 0.83 amps Here's how it works: Current Limitation:When the circuit is powered on, the light bulb acts as a resistor. In the initial moments of powering up the circuit, the resistance of the cold filament in the bulb is much lower than when it's at operating temperature. As a result, a surge of current flows through the bulb. Filament Resistance:As the current passes through the filament of the bulb, it heats up and its resistance increases. This rise in resistance limits the current flowing through the circuit. Indicator of Faults:If there is a short circuit or excessive current draw in the circuit being tested, the bulb will draw more current, causing it to glow brightly. This serves as an indicator that there is an issue in the circuit. Troubleshooting Tool:The dim bulb tester is often used during the initial power-up of a circuit that has been recently constructed or modified, or an older device of unknown condition that has been stored for a length of time. If there are faults such as a short circuit or incorrect connections, the bulb will light up brightly, allowing the user to identify and rectify the issue before connecting the circuit to full power. Gradual Power-Up:The gradual warming up of the filament in the bulb also serves as a form of soft start, reducing stress on components and minimizing the risk of damage to the device you are testing during power-up. By limiting the current, it helps prevent damage to sensitive components in case of a fault. Limit current inrush to capacitors and other sensitive components. While the dim bulb tester is a simple and effective tool for troubleshooting and protecting circuits, it's important to note that it may not catch all types of faults. Additionally, it is not a substitute for proper circuit design and testing procedures. The bulb may glow under normal operation of the device you are testing, a larger wattage incandescent bulb can be used to raise the current threshold of the tester if the device you are testing is a larger one that seems to "need more power" Only incandescent bulbs can be used with this unit, DO NOT USE CFL fluorescent or LED bulbs in this unit as it will not provide the desired current limiting functionality. Use with caution - Use at your own riskThere are dangerous high voltages used in older equipment.Use with a grounded receptacle, the outlet is grounded to it. for more great information about dim bulb testers visit sites like: https://antiqueradio.org/dimbulb.htm I find it helpful to monitor the voltage going into the equipment with a voltmeter and ammeter, so I added one!This one has a red display as shown. The meter will show the voltage at the outlet of your device.I have bench tested each unit during assembly, Enjoy! Don't take my word for it, consider this message from the AI robot:"This Dim Bulb Tester is a must-have for anyone who works with amplifiers, stereos, or guitar amps. It is designed to limit the current flowing through the device being tested, which helps to avoid damaging it. Made in the United States, this tool is of high quality and is an essential item for any professional or DIY enthusiast. With its ability to limit current flow, this Dim Bulb Tester is a valuable tool for troubleshooting and testing devices in the audio industry. Its compact size and ease of use make it a convenient addition to any workspace. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this Dim Bulb Tester is an essential item that will help you get the job done right."
Price: 41.99 USD
Location: Yakima, Washington
End Time: 2024-07-27T14:17:26.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
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Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Brand: Unbranded
Type: Dim Bulb Tester
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States