How to Make a Jacob's Ladder

Jacob's Ladder is a long standing star of horror and sci-fi movies. Its vee shaped construction creates a hissing electric arc that fascinates kids of all ages. Jacob's Ladder is an easy to build crowd pleaser. But, like all electric gadgets, this high voltage toy and must be constructed with caution. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Power supply
• Wire
• Wire Cutters
• Board – 1 by 2 feet
• Electrical tape

1. Find a power supply. A minimum of 7.5kv is required; more is better. Neon transformers, normally 10-15kv, are ideal for building small Jacob's Ladder.
2. Cut two pieces of wire the desired height of the finished Jacob's Ladder plus 6 inches. Bend the wire to a 90 degree angle 6 inches from one end.
3. Fold the wire into a zigzag pattern about 3 inches from the short end. This ensures stability at the base. Attach the wire to the board, at the zigzag bend, using electrical tape.
4. Repeat with the other wire. Make sure the wires are the same height. Place the wires about 3 centimeters apart. Remember the spacing is critical for it to work.
5. Plug the left over wire at the base into the power supply. Turn the power supply on and marvel at Jacob's Ladder.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the wire is thick enough not to bend under prolonged exposure to heat.
• Space too close and the arc won't climb to the top; too far apart and the arc won't strike at all. The latter makes the unit appear off, but in reality the full voltage is still being conducted through the unit.
• Electricity can be dangerous, even deadly. Make sure the Jacob's Ladder is isolated from contact with flammables.