Important Safety Considerations
The
Electrostatic Direct Energy Conversion System is one of the most dangerous system to
repair or make modifications to. The high-voltage potential combined with the high-current
capability of an operating electrostatic energy system poses a deadly threat to the
reckless person. In addition, electrostatic energy systems can leak high radio frequency
energy peaks if the unit is nor resealed properly after a repair or modification. Normally
this does not present a problem. However, improper replacement methods or tampering with
safety systems could expose the unwary troubleshooter to dangerous high voltage. Therefore,
extreme caution and proper procedures MUST be used at all times.
When diagnosing an electrostatic energy system many problems can be detected merely with careful observation, that is, with the high-voltage section disconnected. Most tests can be accomplished with the high-voltage disconnected from the magnetron transducer. We suggest that you leave the "live" testing to the professionals. Nonetheless, certain safety habits must be developed and maintained. If you have experience in troubleshooting electrical equipment, some of these safety precautions may be familiar. However, the high-current potential of the high-voltage circuits in an electrostatic energy system make them possibly life-saving steps.
If you are uneasy or unsure about any of these safety procedures or warnings; or if you feel uncertain as to their importance or your ability to manage them, it would be in your best interest to leave the repair to a qualified professional.
FIRST and ALWAYS, before attempting any repairs, make certain that the units high-voltage section is not activated.
Before touching any components or wiring, ALWAYS DISCHARGE THE
HIGH VOLTAGE CAPACITOR! The high voltage capacitor will quite normally maintain a
painfully high-voltage charge even after the high-voltage circuitry is disengaged. Some
capacitors employ a bleeder resistor (either externally or internally) that allows the
charge to slowly bleed (or drain) off after the high-voltage circuitry is disengaged. Do
not trust a bleeder resistor--it may be open. If you forget to discharge the capacitor,
your fingers may ultimately provide the discharge path. You only make this mistake a few
times, because, while the electric shock is painful, the real punishment comes when you
reflexively yank your hand out leaving behind layers of skin on razor-like edges that are
there as a reminder to never again forget to discharge the high voltage capacitor.
How To Discharge The
High Voltage Capacitor: The capacitor is discharged by creating a short circuit
(direct connection) between the two capacitor terminals and from each terminal to chassis
ground bare metal surface.
Do this by touching the blade of an insulated-handled screw driver to one terminal, then slide it toward the other terminal until it makes contact and hold it there for a few seconds. (This can result in a rather startling "pop!")
Repeat the procedure to create a short between each capacitor terminal and chassis ground.
If the capacitor has three terminals, use the same procedure to create a short circuit between each terminal and then from each terminal to ground.
Some models have red, round filter capacitors mounted in the base of the magnetron transducer which can also hold a charge. Ground each magnetron terminal by creating a short circuit to chassis ground using the blade of a screwdriver as explained above.
NEVER, under any circumstances, touch any system components or wiring with your hand or even with an insulated tool during operation.
The high-voltage circuits in electrostatic energy systems generate from
3,000 to 10,000 volts DC and higher! This combined with the potential for high
current makes the 
HIGH
VOLTAGE CIRCUITS OF A electrostatic ENERGY SYSTEM EXTREMELY DANGEROUS TO WORK ON OR AROUND
WHEN THE SYSTEM IS ENERGIZED.
For this reason, most manufacturers pointedly warn that MEASURING THE HIGH VOLTAGE IS NEITHER NECESSARY NOR ADVISABLE.
It's better (and safer) to avoid making live tests if possible. If such tests become necessary, and if you are adequately qualified to do so, the test can be performed safely as follows:
Make sure the systems high-voltage circuitry is disengaged and that the capacitor discharged.
Attach the meter leads to the prospective test points with insulated clip leads.
Then step back, reconnect high-voltage circuits in the system, perform the test and observe the meter.
In addition, use only one hand whenever possible. Try putting the other hand behind your back or in your pocket. (Two hands could complete a circuit through your body. Use only one hand and/or an insulated tool, even when the high-voltage is disengaged).
After any adjustment or repair on a electrostatic energy system, we require that a final microwave leakage check be performed to ensure that the unit does not emit excessive microwave radiation.
™
RF leakage test procedure:
If there is evidence that the unit has been previously tampered with by someone of questionable competence, be prepared to check the leakage before energizing the electrostatic energy system.
Most amateurs, and many professionals, do not own an RF leakage meter. These meters are available at appliance and electronic parts suppliers, ranging in price from about $10.00 up to many hundreds of dollars for the certified models used at the professional level.
Inexpensive RF detection devices are also available at many retail stores such as Walmart and Radio Shack.
In lieu of purchasing an RF leak checker, you can send your electrostatic energy system for repair to us. We will service the unit check for leakage for free.
Do not work alone. Make sure another person is nearby in case of an emergency. Use care when lifting and carrying a electrostatic energy system. Remember, most of the weight is usually on one side.
When lifting a electrostatic energy system, keep your back straight and use your legs, not your back, to do the lifting.
Before carrying, secure the power cord and insure a clear path to your destination.
When lifting a system in or out of an automobile, lift it on to the seat--do not slide it. Better yet, place a piece of cardboard on the seat first.
Remove your watch and other jewelry. Watches that are susceptible to magnetism will be damaged by the intense magnetic field surrounding the magnetron ion valve. Jewelry is electrically conductive and serious injury could result.
Wear rubber soled shoes.
Never defeat or tamper with the safety interlock switches or the fuses.
Do not touch printed circuit board components or circuitry unless you are properly grounded.
Static electricity can damage certain static sensitive components.
Be aware that opening or otherwise modifying your equipment may void any warranty.
If you are uneasy
or unsure about any of these safety procedures, or feel uncertain as to their importance,
it would probably be in your best interest to leave the electrostatic energy system to a
qualified professional.
Disclaimer: The author assumes no liability for any incidental, consequential or
other liability from the use of this information. All risks and damages, incidental or
otherwise, arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein are entirely
the responsibility of the user. Although careful precaution has been taken in the
preparation of this material, we assume no responsibility for omissions or errors.
