Monitor Hack - Security System!

Step 2 Discharge High Voltage

The anode of the flyback transformer could have some residual voltage on it, so you must discharge it to ground first!

Use an alligator clip attached from a long screwdriver to the ground strap on the monitor.

Carefully slide the screwdriver under the anode cup until you touch the center metal clip, or you hear a loud pop. If it's been a while since the monitor was on, there probably won't be any voltage left to discharge.

Once you've done that, it is now safe to remove the anode by squeezing the clip at the base.

WARNING: I shouldn't have to tell anyone working inside a monitor that there is a very real danger of being electrocuted if you touch the wrong thing. (You did unplug it first, right?)

SECOND WARNING: If you have a heart condition or a pace maker, you obviously should steer clear of this hack.

THIRD WARNING: The monitor I used for this hack was a small one. The voltage was quite high, but the current is not enough to harm you. It's enough to get your attention, but could potentially have the same effect as a very powerful stun gun.

Comments

[bears0]

i cant find the monitors ground?????

[garet1]

when discharging, if I ground to monitor's ground, does monitor has to be plugged in? If not plugged in, then where the charge will go?

[Damnation]

For anyone reading this wondering the same thing, if you plug in the monitor and try to discharge it, the outlet will pump more electricity into it. Chances are you will melt the screwdriver in the process. Plugging the tv in defeats the whole purpose of discharging.

[Prometheus]

Small correction: The flyback does not carry a residual charge at all, being a transformer. It is the CRT that holds the charge, as it is a huge capacitor. One should also try to avoid rubbing the tapered portion of the tube as this will quickly build a charge again.