How to Make an Electronic Plasma Ball

Creating the Flyback Transformer Electrode

• 1

  Disassemble a spare monitor and locate the flyback transformer near the back. A flyback transformer resembles a C-shaped bracket holding a small iron core with loops of wire around it. Remove the flyback transformer and its power supply from the monitor.

• 2

  Measure the flyback transformer's AC electrical output with the multimeter. The output power should be above 10kV and have a frequency in the radio wave range (above 3kHz). If the frequency is below this range, you can increase it by adding a transistor between the transformer and the power supply. Remember that the key to an effective plasma ball is high voltage but low current, especially because even currents below 1 can be fatal.

• 3

  Solder a wire long enough to reach into the center of the flask to the transformer's output. Feed the wire through the flask stopper by piercing or drilling the stopper to make a small hole in it. Seal the hole with the wire passing through it by applying a small amount of vacuum grease or non-metallic gasket sealant (sold at automotive and laboratory supply stores) at both ends.

Assembling the Globe

• 4

  Insert the flask stopper into the Schlenk flask. Hook up the vacuum pump to the gas outlet of the flask and evacuate the flask as much as possible, then close the air valve to seal the flask.

• 5

  Attach the tubing to a purified gas source and briefly allow the purified gas to enter, then permanently clamp the tubing with an air-tight seal. Cut off the remaining length of the tubing.

• 6

  Elevate the flask and turn on the power supply to the flyback transformer. The plasma globe should begin to exhibit glowing fingers.