Re: Electrical warning ?

[MSV96 <MSV96@aol.com>]

In a message dated 5/12/98 J4KQ4me@aol.com writes:

<< The possible damage could be to the Bosch TCI-h control unit. It's the same
concept as audio speaker amplifiers that could be damaged if you operate the
amplifier without a load.     Hope that helps. >>

I would imagine it is more of a personal safety warning. Since grounding it is
*way* beyond a "load" the output device is designed for, and since it is okay
to run the spark into a dead short, I doubt the output circuitry is all that
sensitive. I do know you don't wanna be zapped by that wahr, it will make a TV
picture tube anode look tame. The other considoration is where it zaps...as in
into an ECU input? Bad news I betchya. Grounding the output is prudent. Anyone
know for sure if the "spark box" can be damaged if the output is lifted but
not grounded?

BTW, the thing about running audio amps with no load...that's pretty much a
myth.  In 20+ years of fixing consumer electronic equipment for a living I
have yet to see a power amp that "blows up" by being run with no load...dead
short? Of course...then the smoke escapes, and I get paid to rebuild it ;-)
(Unless it is really well designed, like a McIntosh or the like.)

Mike Veglia
87 5kcstq