High Voltage Probe Recommendations & Questions

[lameboyadvance]

I've had both my arcade cabinet & TV/monitor for a while now, and I figured it was time I started doing something.

I've been reading about the whole monitor discharge thing, and since I may have to remove the anode/chassis from the tube while inserting the TV screen I've decided to invest in a discharge tool, just in case.
I've read about the DIY 'short-n-sharp' methods, but I've also read that some monitors prefer a resistance be inserted, which is when I found out about HV probes.

• Firstly, can these probes actually be used as resistance based discharge tools?
• Secondly, what max voltage rating (30/40KV) would be best for not just arcade monitors, but any CRT?
• And finally, does anyone have ones they would recommend? Remember that I'm a cheapass with no money so nothing too flashy.

Thanks in advance.

[grantspain]

well  buy two long plastic handled screwdrivers,thats really cheap.

[lameboyadvance]

I've already read about that, but as I said some CRTs don't like the immediate discharge of shorting the anode, plus I prefer something with a gauge rather than hearing for a (sometimes non-existent) crackle.

...And I don't trust my soldering skills, especially around HV equipment.

[cw]

I've already read about that, but as I said some CRTs don't like the immediate discharge of shorting the anode, plus I prefer something with a gauge rather than hearing for a (sometimes non-existent) crackle.

...And I don't trust my soldering skills, especially around HV equipment.

Most of the stuff that I have read have pointed to older b&w moniotrs and  vector monitors thats have an inline hvdiode right off of the hv cage or flyback wichever the case my be.  It can blow this diode but not everytime... I have seem people argue this point and say not to worry about it.  I on the other hand go by the book... the atari big book...

[lameboyadvance]

I on the other hand go by the book... the atari big book...

Or in my case, the Apple Tech Docs.



...So noone has/is using an HV probe? Surely everyone doesn't solder 2 screwdrivers together...

[Ken Layton]

• Firstly, can these probes actually be used as resistance based discharge tools?
• Secondly, what max voltage rating (30/40KV) would be best for not just arcade monitors, but any CRT?
• And finally, does anyone have ones they would recommend? Remember that I'm a cheapass with no money so nothing too flashy.

1. YES

2. Most go up to 40kvdc

3. Visit www.mcminone.com and check out their "order" numbers 73-520 and 72-6530. Both are excellent units. The "Tenma" brand is MCM's own brand and in this case their order number 72-6530 is an excellent clone of the B&K brand (# 73-520) at a fraction of the cost. If you want cheaper then go to ebay and look for used Heathkit and Pomona brand probes. Several years ago I got a great used Pomona one for $20 with safety orange colored padded carrying case to protect it. Remember that these probes (as are many pieces of test equipment) are very delicate and don't take physical abuse.

I am a professional and I always use a high voltage probe to discharge a tube. You can tell right away if the tube is discharged or not. HV probes are very useful in diagnosing startup/overvoltage problems in monitors/tv sets. If you do lots of monitor or tv work then this is an essential tool you can't live without.