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Shorting Power Supply

Hooligan383

Jun 1, 2011
2
Joined
Jun 1, 2011
Messages
2
Hello,
I am having a small problem with a project i am working on. I am creating an electromagnet by using a 12vdc power supply to provide current through 20 gauge insulated copper wiring (which is wrapped in a coil around an iron nail), this in theory, would allow for the nail to attract other ferrous materials (making it magnetic). My problem is that when i hook up the wiring to the power supply it shorts the power supply. Why is that? How can i fix it?

for any questions about what i am trying to accomplish reference:
http://education.jlab.org/qa/electromagnet.html

Thank you for your time
 

(*steve*)

¡sǝpodᴉʇuɐ ǝɥʇ ɹɐǝɥd
Moderator
Jan 21, 2010
25,510
Joined
Jan 21, 2010
Messages
25,510
More turns.

*LOTS* more turns.

Or thinner wire.

*MUCH* thinner wire.

Basically the resistance of your coil is too low and the current it draws is too much for the power supply to handle.
 

shrtrnd

Jan 15, 2010
3,876
Joined
Jan 15, 2010
Messages
3,876
If you run out of wire, stick a hefty wattage resistor in-line, to limit the current through your wire.
 
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