Whether teaching electricity, magnetism, or electronics in the classroom, or a science fair project or self-teaching, you will find the right equipment for the task.
Finally, a way to actually "see" DC magnetic fields from permanent magnets or magnetized metals without messy iron filings! You can use this amazing film over and over to view the location and number of poles on any magnet. Just lay the card on the magnet to see the polar pattern. Magnetic poles appear as dark areas and the light areas represent where the N and S poles meet. Flexible thin rubber magnets show up as stripes. A great inexpensive magnetic detector for finding objects in your environment that have become magnetized. Uses no batteries. Also great for science projects. Dimensions: 2-1/2" x 4"
DC MAGNETIC FIELD VIEWER CARD (Cat. #K1120) .......... $2.75 Case Price [50 units] (Cat. #K1120-case) .................................. $123.50
Magnetic Field Viewer Gel
Same flat viewer material that is in the viewer card but larger (full 12" x 12") and without the lamination. Can be re-used over and over. Can be cut to custom sizes with a scissors, bent or rolled. For DC magnetic fields only.
Paper-thin and highly flexible, this viewer uses micro-encapsulation of colloidal Nickel to reveal magnetize material. In the encapsulation process, colloidal Nickel particles suspended in the slurry become engulfed within gelatinous membranes. A 2-mil layer of the magnetically sensitive slurry is bonded to a 5-mil sheet of plastic film and allowed to dry. After complete drying, the particles maintain freedom of movement within the gelatinous membranes.
When a DC magnetic field is applied to the finished film, the Nickel particles congregate in alignment with the flux lines emanating from the DC magnetic source. This clumping of nickel particles causes a darkened appearance in the film exactly where the magnetic field is impinging on the film. As a result, an exact two-dimensional image or impression of the magnetic pole or pole pattern (if there are more than one) is produced. This image is easily erased once the film is removed from the magnetic source and the nickel particles are allowed to freely re-disperse within their gelatinous cells. A common bar magnet can be swiped across the film to ensure complete erasure of the previous image, or by reapplying the film to another magnetic source the new image produced will completely replace the old one.
Because of the small size of the colloidal Nickel particles, the film can detect fields as low as only a few gauss and still produce a clear image.
Due to the film's high flexibility, it easily conforms to magnetic surfaces with high degrees of concavity and convexity. Also, because the film is so thin and can be cut down to practically any size without losing its properties, it can be used in tighter places inaccessible to the bulkier, unalterable devices. Finally, since there are no moving or electronic parts, the film never needs maintenance or repair.
DC MAGNETIC FIELD VIEWER GEL (Cat. #K1121) .......... $59.00
FILING VIEWER
Remember playing with iron filings and a magnet? The magnet makes the filings stand up on end and arrange themselves in beautiful patterns according to the magnetic field lines. The problem was that the filings would stick to the magnet so hard it was difficult to remove them AND filings that spilled made a huge (and rusty) mess. This clever device solves both problems by enclosing the iron filings in a clear hard plastic case! Now students, children and adults too can enjoy learning about magnetic attraction the fun and clean way. You must supply your own magnet, but just about any magnet will do. And when you are done, just put it away in a drawer and there's nothing to clean up. 3" round.
Looking for the cheapest way to determine if something is magnetized? Want a simple device for comparing magnets? Doing a school project? Lost? For hundreds of years, mankind has used the trusty compass to guide him through the Earth’s magnetic field. Measure the deflection of the needle from magnetic North at known distances using this nice 1.75 inch diameter compass to quantify and compare DC magnetic fields, track down magnetized components, or evaluate magnetic shielding performance. Extra large, easy to hold, and very easy to see. High resolution with large needle. Aluminum case with loop for key ring or lanyard. Check DC magnetic fields, identify magnetized steel, or just find your way home!
Much cleaner than iron filings. Makes a great science fair project too. Compass must be held horizontally to operate. May look different from picture.
1.75 inch Compass (Cat. #K123) …............. $2.50
"POCKET" MAGNETOMETER
Industrial Magnetic Strength Meter
DC magnetic fields can develop in many steel or iron objects if they have been exposed to magnetic fields, current, or friction. Even structural members in homes and barns have become magnetized due to stray voltage.
This hand-held device detects residual magnetism in steel parts quickly and accurately. Simply place the test edge near or against the object being tested, and the needle gauge points to a reading representing the magnetism in the object at that site as well as polarity.
Will also verify thoroughness of de-magnetizing. Check out your car, bed frame, desk furniture or any other metal objects you spend time with. Can also be used to check the strength of (weak) magnets. Two models in stock: -20 to +20 and -100 to +100 Gauss.
Other ranges available as a special order. Contact us for details.
AC/DC milliGAUSSMETER
Two High Sensitivity Meters in One
A useful and reasonably priced meter for measuring both AC and DC magnetic fields. Easy to use with external single axis axial probe. Excellent range with great features including:
DC and AC (40 Hz to 10 KHz) magnetic field measurement
High sensitivity: down to 0.1 mG
High range: up to 3000 mG
Accuracy: ±(2% + 2 mG)
N pole/S pole indicator
Reads in mG or µT (toggle)
Zero adjustment button (tare) for relative measurement
Data hold function for freezing the current value on display
Records Maximum and Minimum readings with Recall
1 second sampling time
3.5 mm data ouput jack
Uses 6 AAA batteries (not included). Can also be power by external DC 9V adapter (sold separately).
AC/DC milliGaussmeter (Cat. #K112) ….. $399.95
KILOGAUSSMETER
For Strong Field Applications
This is a high quality, reasonably priced digital meter & it is invaluable for reliable measurement of permanent magnets, magnetized rocks and metals, and any DC magnetic field. Offering 3˝ digit bipolar display, 9V battery powered and comes with an AC power adapter for extended benchtop use.
Probe (High Linearity Hall Generator) with 3.5 ft cable is included providing nearly linear response from DC to 10 Hz. Useful 4 ranges covering 0 - 20, 200, 2000, 20,000 Gauss with a 3% accuracy guarantee. Two year parts and labor warrantee. 200mV DC recorder output (which can be used with DMM (Cat. #A192) to interface this unit with your PC) is included. Choose transverse, ultra-thin (.020 inch) transverse, axial probe, or combination.
KiloGaussmeter with transverse probe
- (Cat. #K2100-T) ...................... $525.00
KiloGaussmeter with ultra-thin transverse probe
- (Cat. #K2100-UT) ................... $525.00
KiloGaussmeter with axial probe
- (Cat. #K2100-A) ...................... $525.00
Connector Cable
Perfect for connecting the output on this meter to a DMM with PC Interface for data logging and graphics. 3.5 mm mono audio plug on one end, dual banana plug on other end. 3.5mm Audio Plug to Dual Banana Connector Cable (Cat. #3.5-Ban) ........ $14.95
GEOMAGNETOMETER
Our Most Sensitive DC Gaussmeter
You simply won't find anything this sensitive in this price range! Want to measure the Earth's magnetic field with great precision? Want to detect magnets from a distance? Breaks in magnetized steel cables? Need to comply with shipping regulations? Then this is the unit for you. Similar in appearance to the DC Gaussmeter listed above, but 10,000 times more sensitive. Only 3" x 4" x 7" and operating on common 9V batteries for total portability and convenience plus AC power adapter included for extended benchtop use.
An axial probe (High Sensitivity Hall Generator) with coiled cable is included providing nearly flat response from DC to 10+ Hz. Large 3˝ digit bipolar display. 4 ranges: 0-2, 20, 200, 2000 mG (yes milliGauss!) and a 5% error guarantee. Two year parts and labor warrantee. 200mV AC recorder output included to interface this unit with your PC, scope, analyzer or recorder. Allows analysis of ultra-low frequency signal waveform, frequency and spectrum. Click here for more information.
Connector Cable
Perfect for connecting the output on this meter to a DMM with PC Interface for data logging and graphics. 3.5mm mono audio plug on one end, dual banana plug on other end. 3.5mm Audio Plug to Dual Banana Connector Cable (Cat. #3.5-Ban) ........ $14.95
Zero Gauss Chamber (Cat. #K3105) ......... $395.00
Almost 4.75 x 8 inches, this large coil can be used as an AC magnetic field sensor, or AC/DC magnetic field producer. Generates an AC voltage when exposed to AC magnetic fields. Although we do not specify how the output from this unit varies with frequency, we do know that the greater the magnetic field, the higher the voltage generated. It can be connected to a DMM, voltmeter, oscilloscope, audio amplifier, or recording device. It can also be used in reverse: apply a small AC or DC current to produce a magnetic field (careful, don't overdo it). Has color coded binding posts and a stable base. Great for teaching principles of electromagnetism and magnetic induction.
Jumbo Coil (Cat. #K389) …........…. $44.95
MAGNETIC PICKUP
Build Your Own Gaussmeter
This AC magnetic field probe generates an AC voltage when exposed to AC magnetic fields. Although we do not specify how the output from this unit varies with frequency, we do know that the greater the magnetic field, the higher the voltage generated (at 60 Hz, it produces about 1 mV per 20 mG). It can be connected to a DMM, analog voltmeter, oscilloscope, audio amplifier, or recording device. Connect 3 of them in series and create a 3-axis unit. It can also be used in reverse: apply a small current to produce a magnetic field (careful, don't overdo it). It is quite small: only 0.7" long x 0.7" diameter, with a removable rubber suction cup attached. Has 36" lead and 1/8" (3.5 mm) mono plug.
Magnetic Pickup (Cat. #K175) …........…. $4.95
BUDGET BUZZ STICK
Listen to Magnetic Fields
Common ELF magnetic field frequencies are within the range of human hearing. This simple set up converts the AC magnetic signal directly into a dramatic corresponding sound signal. A 60 Hz powerline field sounds like a 60 Hz hum (a low note on piano keyboard). Harmonics can easily be heard, as well as clicks, static, and hash. LED displays are especially noisy. The strength of the field is proportional to loudness.
Unit includes a single axis probe on 3 foot cable and audio amplifier. You can even use an optional earphone/headset for discreet operation. Use it to “sniff out” sources of interference, offending EMF, check shielding designs. Makes a great educational tool. Requires one 9V battery.
This little meter measures the level of ELF magnetic field radiation from power lines, computers, kitchen appliances, and more! The easy to read scale, unique built-in audio signal and auto shut-off make it simple to use and a great way to find hidden sources of ELF frequency magnetic fields.
Most experts agree that chronic exposure to more than 2.5 milli-Gauss is inadvisable. This meter will show you which areas are above or below 2.5 milli-Gauss in the 50 - 60 Hz frequency range.
Hand-held, lightweight and durable, with two easy to read scales (0-1 mG, & 0-10 mG), and dramatic audio signal. Our favorite meter for demonstrating the presence of dangerous EMFs to others and paranormal work. Requires one 9V battery (not included). Calibrated at 50-60 Hz.
Axis
Range
Resolution
Frequency
Accuracy
1
0-1 mG 0-10 mG
0.1 mG 1 mG
50/60+ Hz
no spec
What is unique about this meter? Lightning fast needle response, audio function
Includes nice instructions on how to perform a proper survey of your home, office, or school yard.
Rugged, Compact, & Lightweight Magnetic Field Meter
Couldn't be easier to use, just turn it on and get accurate reliable readings. Perfect for situations needing high resolution measurements of AC magnetic fields without spending a lot of money. Large LCD display reads 0.1 -199.9 mG over the ELF range of 30 - 400 Hz. Provides readout in both mG and microTesla. Calibrated to within 4% ±3 digits at 50/60 Hz. This single axis meter samples every 0.4 seconds when flipped on with slide switch. Requires one 9V battery. One year limited warrantee.
Like all single axis meters, this meter must be rotated during use to find the proper orientation to the magnetic field being measured to get proper readings.
Axis
Range
Resolution
Frequency
Accuracy
1
0-199.9 mG 0-19.99 microT
0.1 0.01
30 - 300 Hz
4% ±3 digits at 50/60 Hz
What is unique about this meter? Lowest cost digital gaussmeter, good accuracy & range, toggle mG/microT
Single Axis Digital Gauss/Tesla Meter (Cat. #K111) ..... $79.95
Transforms from Insulator to Conductor with Pressure
This flexible polymer exhibits extraordinary electrical resistance change when deformed by squeezing, pulling or twisting. In practice, QTC™ can be connected in quite simple ways to create anything from switches to force sensors. In its normal, uncompressed state, QTC acts as a near perfect insulator, but as it is gradually compressed it will allow more current through until it is nearly a perfect conductor. Fun to experiment with and great for turning anything with a screw-in battery compartment into an effective dimmer switch! Can also be used between layers of conductive fabric to make variable switches and variable resistors or capacitors.
It is claimed that electrons ‘pass’ through the insulation by a process called quantum tunneling. In classical physics, the electrons cannot pass through an insulating barrier, but according to quantum theory a wave can – and this is what happens in QTC™. Another way of describing the quantum tunneling effect is to say that a non-zero probability exists of electrons one side of the insulation barrier appearing on the other side.
QTC™ can be used as a solid state switch - in the "off" state it is a good insulator and in the "on" state it is as good as a metal conductor. It can be used to detect even very small changes due to compression, tension or other stresses and it can carry significant currents allowing for the direct control of loads.
Rated for over one million compressions.
The maximum specified voltage is 40V, maximum current is 10 Amps.
Temperature variation (for a current of 1microA) shows an approximately linear increase in the resistance (R=63MOhm to R=1240MOhm) observed from 25°C to 180°C.
Each piece is 4x4x1 mm.
Need to sew with conductive thread? Want to add a conductive stitch to a non-conductive fabric? Only need a little bit?
With this conductive thread, you can add conductivity to any fabric, make conductive traces as easily as sewing, even use it as un-insulated low voltage wiring. Great for embroidery too.
You get 2 bobbins: one large and one small, to fit most sewing machines. Can also be hand sewn. Approximately 20 meters of thread per bobbin. Hand wash, no bleach. Hang dry. Do not dry clean. Needle and thimble not included.
Place the jaws of this clamp meter around wires, pipes, conduit, hoses, or any other object (up to 42mm diameter) to determine if magnetic field producing electric current is flowing. It’s the easiest way to check your water main, radiator pipes, and wires without disconnecting them. Net current and many wiring errors can be detected when the current in the hot lead does not equal the current in the neutral… or worse, if there is current running on the ground wire. This is a “must have” tool for EMF consultants and other EMF detectives.
This unit also has many other very useful features:
True RMS for AC voltage and current
Auto/manual range
Data hold
MAX / MIN function
AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, resistance, frequency
Continuity test
Diode test
More specifications:
Conforms to the IEC1010-1 & IEC1010-2-032 standard
Frequency range from current clamp: 40Hz ~ 400Hz ±0.1%
Size: 225 x 86 x 33mm; Weight: Approx.320g
Requires 3 AAA batteries
See Tracing Magnetic Fields DVD (Cat. #K531) for a fabulous demonstration of how to use a clamp meter.
AC/DC Clamp Meter (Cat. #K416) ...... $89.95
Signal Generators
SIGNAL GENERATOR
Tunable, Adjustable, Powerful
With this device you can precisely select any frequency from .01 Hz to 2 MHz, and adjust the power output as well. Produces a mammoth intensity signal: from 1 mG to over 100 mG! Digital display leaves no uncertainty about what frequency is selected. Includes memory for up to 10 favorite frequencies. USB powered from your computer or AC adapter (provided).
This unit can also be used as an Audible Tone Generator or Frequency Counter. Produces Sine, Sawtooth and Square wave patterns. Step by step instructions included.
Schumann Signal Generator (Cat. #K388) ............... $149.95
Make some waves! Need a source of 20 Hz to 150 kHz frequencies? Handy little unit fits in your shirt pocket and is very simple to operate. Produces nice clean sine waves (adjustable intensity up to 1.2V rms) or square waves (p to 8V p-p) with 5% frequency accuracy. Simply dial in the desired frequency. Uses 9V battery (50 hrs typical use). Includes low battery indicator, test leads and 9V battery.
Check the response of your gaussmeter to various frequencies (connect the Frequency Generator to the Degaussing Coil to generate several mG fields at various frequencies), test your frequency counter, connect to a speaker/headphones to test your hearing range! Also great for field/bench service of audio equipment, car stereo, etc. Bargain price!
Generator frequency
20Hz~150KHz in 46 steps ±0.5dB
Sine wave output
1.2V RMS minimum in 600 Ohm
Distortion
less than 0.05% (200Hz~15KHz)
0.1% (50Hz~30KHz)
less than 0.3% (20Hz~100KHz)
Square wave output
8V p-p max. (no load)
Rise/fall time
less than 0.5µsec
Overshoot
less than 2%
Duty ratio
50% ±5%
Output impedence
1 KOhm
Dimensions
3 3/8" (W) x 6" (H) x 1" (D)
Frequency Generator (Cat. #K423)……. $74.95
Magnetic Shielding Alloys
MagnetShield
High Saturation Magnetic Alloy
First line of defense for shielding strong magnetic fields from magnets, speakers, small transformers and motors. Strong magnetic fields are harder to shield because they tend to "saturate" the shielding material. This 4" wide foil is a hefty .010" thick and has an exceptionally high magnetic saturation of 21400 Gauss and maximum permeability of 4000. Tin plated for excellent corrosion resistance and better conductivity, it can be soldered or painted.
MagnetShield typically reduces fields up to a factor of 2 or 3 depending on size/shape of the shield. Can be used in multiple layers, and/or in combination with a higher permeability alloy such as Joint-Shield for higher attenuation. Annealing is not necessary with this material. Compare the magnetic shielding of various houshold items: Aluminum pie plates, steel cookware, Silver spoon etc.
For increased shielding effectiveness, consider the following strategies:
Good: Layer(s) MagnetShield
Better: One or more layers of MagnetShield (closest to the source of field), followed by one or more layers of a high permeability material such as Joint-Shield or MagStop Plate.
Applications Notes:
- The magnets will be attracted to the shield (this is true of ALL magnetic shielding alloys). If you want to shield 2 adjacent magnets from eachother, each magnet should have its own shield.
- The size, shape, and position of the shield all matter in terms of shield performance. For example, larger shields are better than small shields. Closer to the magnet is better than farther from the magnet. And parallel to the magnetic field lines is better than perpendicular to them.
- You will likely need more than one layer of shielding material, depending on the strength of your magnets. More layers = more attenuation.
4 inch wide Ribbon: MagnetShield (Cat. #K274) ........................... $4.50/lin ft
GIRON
Breakthrough In Magnetic Shielding Flexibility
GIRON Magnetic Shielding Film, which does not contain Nickel, is unlike any other magnetic shielding material available on the market today. Suitable for high field strength applications requiring high saturation and good permeability, it is both thin and strong, and unlike Mu-metal™ it is very tolerant to bending or shaping without losing its shielding properties.
GIRON is a woven, laminated material. Cuts neatly with snips or sheet metal tools, and can be used either flat or molded into shapes for best performance.
Suitable for small shields on magnets, motors, speakers and appliances such as refrigerators, vacuum cleaners etc. Also great for lining car floor or firewall. Perfect for full or partial wall / floor shielding in rooms too! Can be glued, taped, nailed, screwed or riveted into place. Could even be used to make a (heavy weight) vest to shield a person's torso! Works with AC or DC magnetic fields (0-1000 Hz), and will tolerate temperatures from 32° to 122°F. Coating is UV sensitive, cover if installation is exposed to direct sunlight.
Initial permeability: 500
Relative permeability: 7000
Saturation induction: 2,0 T
Curie Temp.: 740°C (1364°F)
Weight is approx 1 lb per square foot
25.5 inch wide, 1 mm thick. Weighs 3.5 Kg/m˛ (about 15 pounds per 10 foot length). Edges are sharp!
GIRON (Cat. #K273) ............... $48.95 per linear foot
With so many meter choices, it can be hard to know what you need to do a proper EMF survey of your home or office. To save you the trouble, we have put together a kit that does everything you will need to check your home for unsafe levels of electromagnetic fields including wifi, smart meters, fluorescent lights, circuit boxes, wiring, appliances, computers and TVs, cellphones, and so much more. We have selected equipment that is easy to use, reliable, and reasonably priced.
With this kit, you can measure:
Dirty Electricity
Low frequency magnetic fields
Low Frequency electric fields
High frequency (radiowaves)
You get:
Acousticom2 (measures RF)
Pocket PF Meter (measures E and M fields)
Stezerizer Microsurge Meter (measures dirty electricity)
And a foam lined, professional-looking, locking carry case.
A $484 value, you save $40!
Home Survey Kit (Cat. #A141-kit) ………………… $444.80
Great Books for Experiment Ideas
Safe & Simple Electrical Experiments
by Rudolf F. Graf
Here are 101 entertaining experiments for fast and reliable learning of the basic principles of electricity. Categorized into static electricity (38 experiments), magnetism (32), and current electricity and electromagnetism (31) for maximum exposure to the fundamentals. Each experiment beginning with a list of safe and inexpensive materials needed and some introductory remarks, is presented with detailed step-by-step instructions and clear illustrations. The reader learns where to get/make electricity, how to store it, and how to use it in a number of creative ways. Although carefully selected to be safe for children, this book is suitable for young and old students of electromagnetism. 117 paperbound pages. 1964
40 Attractive (and Repulsive) Devices and Demonstrations
by Fred Jeffers
Surprising and seemingly impossible effects result from the 40 experiments included in this fascinating science resource—all with a concise explanation of the underlying magnetic physics. Each experiment—such as using a common refrigerator magnet to create a three-dimensional image or floating a magnet and carbon sheet in midair—is outlined with step-by-step instructions and diagrams that illustrate the key concepts of magnetism. Even the most experienced science teacher or at-home tinkerer will find dozens of new tricks in this amazing collection. Great for students. Clearly written and easy to understand with lots of good photos. 2007
Mondo Magnets (Cat. #K601) ..… $16.95
"Spectacular Science Projects:"
Mind-Boggling Experiments You Can Turn Into Science Fair Projects by Janice VanCleave
ELECTRICITY
Includes 20 simple and fun experiments that allow you to learn about electric charges with a simple experiment using modeling clay and a plastic straw; about voltage using a bowl, paper towels, and a raw egg; about conductors with some clothespins, aluminum foil, and a flashlight bulb; plus dozens of additional suggestions for developing your own science fair projects.
All experiments are safe, use inexpensive household materials, and involve a minimum of preparation and clean up. Clearly written. 1994.
Janice VanCleave's other book includes 20 great experiments that allow you to answer these questions, plus many more ideas for developing further science fair projects. Learn about magnetic poles; about magnetic force fields; even magnetic shielding! Author is a former science teacher and science lecturer. 1993.