Make cool gadgets from a deceased fluorescent lamp

Step 6 Joule thief

This is a circuit that does the oppositte to the Buck converter, it "boosts up" the voltage, hence it is call Boost converter.

This circuit is known for its alias "Joule Thief". This is simply a self oscillating Boost DC-DC converter.

Using the toroidal ferrite core found on some flourescent lamps, you can wind the transformer needed for this gadget.

This is what you'll need:

-Any small signal NPN or PNP (bipolar transistor) like BC548.
-1k resistor
-A 1.5 V battery
-A led.
-The toroid from your lamp.
-1 meter long piece of magnet wire.