Testing the Ion Generator for STATICGRASSKING Static Grass Applicators: A Comprehensive Guide
Learn how to effectively test the ion generator used in STATICGRASSKING’s line of static grass applicators and kits to ensure proper functionality and prevent burnouts. Follow step-by-step instructions, warnings, and quality assurance tests for optimal results.
In this comprehensive guide, we provide detailed instructions on how to test the ion generator used in STATICGRASSKING’s static grass applicators. By following these steps, you can verify the functionality of your applicator without the risk of damaging it. Whether you’re assembling your own applicator or testing a pre-assembled unit, these procedures are essential for a successful outcome.
By using this test procedure you can check the operation of any static grass applicator without burning it out.
StaticGrassKing Models
There are two models of static grass applicators available from The Model Scenery Center
The first is a completely assembled plug and play model.
The second is a DIY kit. An assembled kit is shown to the left.
There is also an ion generator that you can use to make your own static grass applicator. This test procedure also applies to any static grass applicator that you make with it.
This is the same ion generator that we use.
Critical Warnings
The anion generator used in the StaticGrassKing static grass applicators is not a transformer. It does not pass current. It is a static field generator. It acts somewhat like a capacitor. It draws enough current to create the field and then stays relatively dormant.
If you make any connection across the wires on the output side of the unit, you will burn it out.
If you make any connection between one of the output (static field) side wires and power supply wires, you will burn it out.
Never connect output green and output black wires to each other.
Do not allow your dispenser to spark more than momentarily when it is close to the grounded surface. Doing so will burn out the generator.
So do not do any continuity or voltage checks on or involving any output wires at any time.
Initial Test Should – More Than Should – Must Be Done With A Battery
When you run the first test, use a battery. A standard 9 volt DC battery is best.
By using a battery you eliminate any problems that can be created by your power supply. And they do exist. For example, some power supplies have an AC component in their output. That will burn out the unit. And then some are unstable and go into over voltage conditions.
And if you have erred in wiring, it is possible to burn out the power supply.
Warnings
Only after you test satisfactorily with a battery, use an external power supply. This warning applies to a fully assembled static grass applicator as well as one you make.
Quality Assurance Test
When you get an anion generator, this image shows a very simple way to test that it operates. Click on the image to get a good look at it.
Add grass to a pan and connect your dispenser and ground wire to the pan. The video below shows what I mean.
Connect the ground wire and dispenser to the output of the generator.
Connect battery clip leads to the input positive and negative leads of the generator. BE SURE THAT THE POLARITY IS CORRECT . IF NOT, THE GENERATOR WILL BURN OUT.
Attach the battery. 9v dc is preferred. You can cascade others and use a lower voltage. Remember that this generator will work on as low as 4.5 volts.
Check that the grass stands up. Watch this video to see how we do it. Click to watch.
If the grass does not stand, stop, disconnect the battery and contact us. Send a picture of the setup that you used.
About Switches
As you move on, you will install a switch.
The switch used to turn the generator on and off must be carefully chosen. We use on like shown at the left.
Some other types, particularly those with metal frames/holders create a feedback situation that burns out either the power supply or the generator.
If you assemble one of our kits, DO NOT use a switch other than the one supplied.
The Static Grass
Be sure to use a good static grass. You really should use the grass that you will apply to your substrate. It will give you a good feel for how your grass will respond. Here is a link to the grass that we recommend.
This video shows the difference in response to one of the grasses that we recommended above compared to another cheap grass. VVVV
How Your Applicator Will Pull With A 9 Volt Battery
There are two videos below that show testing of the applicator. Simply lay out some grass and hold your dispenser close. These tests are done with 12 mm grass from the Model Scenery Center. Click here to see.
Watch Test On YouTube.
Click on the image or the link that follows to watch the video that shows how to run the test. How To Test A Static Grass Applicator
This video shows how the ion generator stands grass up when powered by 9 v DC and 12 v DC. Click on the image to watch the video.
Trouble Shooting
If any time you have problems or questions,
Stop
Check that all connections are proper. DO NOT CHECK CONTINUITY OR VOLTAGE!!!
Take pictures of your wiring and setup inside and out.
Send them to 123d@qlbr.com
Explain the problem.
Static Grass Applicator Video Tutorials
We have many tutorials on using static grass applicators and much, much more here. Check them out now. Click here.
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