[HomeBrew] Neon oscillator as a code practice unit

[Tim]

I missed the original schematic, but the "all in parallel" part makes me
wonder. My guess is you did not have a current limiting resistor in
SERIES with the bulb. There is a inverse relationship between current
and life of a neon bulb. A short, but very brilliant life was achieved
by not limiting the current through the bulb (not unlike the behavior of
an LED). 

Throw at least 20k or so in series for the next test, if it still is
really bright after a second or two add some more in series.

Good luck, 

Tim ka8ddz


Bill wrote:

Many thanks to all who responded to my questions and for all the web
sites with information.

I just built one of these, had line voltage going to a bridge rectifier,
then to two 10mfd capacitors, a 12 meg resistor, all in parallel and a
NE 2 bulb. When I closed the key to apply power, I got a brilliant flash
and the NE 2 bulb was cooked.

Do any of you have any suggestions on what might have gone wrong?

Thanks,

Bill Howard