Joule Thief

[Groundloop]

@Xee2,

I tried different capacitors but the best result I get is with my 15 Watt tube connected
direct to the transformer output windings. I also did run the circuit from 3 volt and I got
a LOT of light but the transistor did get warm very quick as expected. So it is not
recommended to run this little circuit on higher voltages than 1,5 volt.

(edit) I got the same light output with a 100nF ceramic capacitor from the tube end to minus.
        The other end of the tube is connected directly to the transformer.

@Nievesoliveras,

Maybe you can try to make your own transformer instead of using transformers from the cameras?
One good source for transformers is the one found in PC power supply. I have found that some
of them can be stripped for wire and then rewired with the number of turns you want. It is a LOT
of work to hand wind the output coil. I have attached a image of my first attempt. The output coil
has 1150 turns (all I could fit) and the input has 4 separate coils, 2 turns each.  The high voltage
coil has 0,1 mm enameled copper wire. The input coils uses 0,35 mm enameled copper wire.

Groundloop.

[WilbyInebriated]

i also tried running the kodak mod @ 3V. much more light. i was surprised. i hooked up the ammeter just to see, and it was pulling just over 1A.
i ran it at 4.5V as well, but not for very long.

1150, dang! your hands must be feeling it.

[nievesoliveras]

@groundloop

I found the name of the transformer. It is: Photo Flash Transformer.
I will search ebay and the net for it. It is too difficult for me to build my own.

Thanks again.

Jesus

[Groundloop]

@WilbyInebriated,

I checked the data sheet for the 2SD965 and the data sheet said that the transistor
can handle up to 5 ampere. But as you said, the circuit will not survive for long because
of heat buildup both in the transformer and in the transistor. (I have attached the 2SD965 data sheet.)

The most work when making my own transformers is removing
the existing windings and then breaking the transformer core open. I just heat the black
glue on the transformer ferrite core with a propane flame. Then I pull the cores out of
the transformer housing. Sometimes it works and sometimes I just break the cores
in many small fragments. LOL

Groundloop.

[nievesoliveras]

I used a propane flame and pulled out four transformers, 2 came out right.
Problem now is they are not wide enough to cross the bread board middle gap.
I will need to add some longer cooper legs and see.

It would be cool if @freezer posted his circuit configuration before I damish anything else experimenting.

Thankyou all.

Jesus