43. Microwave HERF gun

This is the most dangerous project ever presented in the list, because not only does it utilize high voltage, just like the HV power supplies, but the chemicals used in certain parts, such as beryllium oxide, can be toxic once it gets into the human body.

<Entire unit>

This is a way to generate microwaves in a crude-like manner, where there are no timers/switches to control the time of microwave generating. Instead, it relies on 4 main components, the HV transformer, the HV diode, the HV capacitor, and the magnetron. the magnetron is basically a microwave generator, where it takes the high voltage generated from the transformer, and emits these waves out from the filament/antenna. It's all powered through 120 volts AC mains, yet the transformer converts it to 2K volts.

<Test>

Everything is housed on a wooden board, which will act as an entire base for the microwave circuit. Of course, the base can be upgraded, by adding another wood board on top with long bolts and nuts. That way, it will provide improved structural integrity.

Since the magnetron can get hot while it is in use, a fan is needed to cool it down. All of the HV parts used to make this microwave gun is recycled from other microwaves. In other words, they originally came from salvaged microwave ovens and were hacked to extract those parts.  Some parts may not be in good condition, like accumulating dust and spider webs, while the other parts looked like they are brand new, as well as being in good shape.

<Circuitry>

The magnetron only emits microwaves from the sides of the antenna radially, not from the top of the magnetron. To concentrate the microwave beams to a directed path, a horn antenna is used, which in this case, a metal bean can is implanted into the magnetron. Just be sure to cut the hole, so that the antenna would slide right through.

Once the simple circuit is assembled and housed, it is ready to test. Be aware of the risks, whereas mentioned before, there is a high voltage risk and keep in mind of toxic chemicals such as beryllium oxide, which is located in the magnetron as a pink insulator. Do not attempt to repeat this project if you do not know the risks it comes with, and when you do, always wear some kind of insulation protection, such as gloves.

<Test>

<Typical microwave circuit>