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Microwave magnetron in free air - measuring spacial distribution and other experiments

     This experiment tries to measure the directionality of the 2M218 magnetron made by Daewoo. (The parameters are: heater 3.3V 10A, the anode voltage of 4kV, recommended anode current of 300 mA, max current 350 mA, max pulse current of 1.2 A. Max. power 1400W, output power 900W, frequency 2458 + - 10MHz) The measurement of directionality were used neon lamp arranged in a halfcircle in various positions. Magnetron ran on limited power 50W, limiting performance is ensured by reducing the capacity of the resonant capacitor. Dipole arrangement not work, arrangement with radial pins (side) showed that the most intense magnetron radiates to the side (see Video 1).
     Furthermore, i tried to light up gas-filled flasks, such as fluorescent lamps, energy saving lamps, mini lights and argon-filled lamps using microwaves. All except the light bulb lighted up (see pictures below and Video 3).

     WARNING!
Microwaves can cause severe burns, permanent blindness or death. Voltage of MOT 2100V 50Hz is also deadly. For people with electronic implants and supporting devices (pacemakers, insulin pump ...) can even a very weak radiation mean death. Microwaves can destroy the electronics and storage media in the area. Unshielded magnetron cause electromagnetic interference, which is illegal. This page doesn't serve as a guide! it is just a curiosity, not intended for reproduction. Therefore there I won't describe the principles of safety. In any case, never try to reproduce this experiment! If you decide despite warnings to attempt this, I do not take any responsibility of your injury or damage.

warning - microwave danger

Schematic of magnetron connection for reduced power of 50W
Schematic of magnetron connection for reduced power of 50W

directivity test of magnetron using neon lamps
directivity test of magnetron using neon lamps

Longitudinal dipoles - unsuccessful method
Longitudinal dipoles - unsuccessful method

Transverse dipoles - also failed (see video 2).
Transverse dipoles - also failed (see video 2).

 Magnetron Experiment with energy saving flurescent tube, Neon lamp and green night light
Magnetron Experiment with energy saving flurescent tube, Neon lamp and green night light

Magnetron Experiment with energy saving flurescent tube, Neon lamp and green night light


Attempt to make plasma-ball (failed).
Attempt to make plasma-ball (failed).

Attempt to make plasma-ball (failed).


magnetron with a linear fluorescent tube
With a linear fluorescent tube


Video 1 - measuring directivity (spacial distribution)


Video 2 - failed directivity measurement


Video 3 - fluorescent tube and neon lamps


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