Equipment: Two Genecon motor/generators (a handheld device that can be used as a motor or a generator), a 6V bulb and a bi-colored LED (a red and green LED connected back-to-back in a single package). Optional: a 1F capacitor.

What it does: The Genecon motor/generator is a motor or hand cranked DC generator that is used to drive another Genecon motor/generator, a bulb and a bi-colored LED.

Concepts Demonstrated: Motors and generators; DC signal generation.

Classroom assembly:

1. Connect the leads of two Genecon motors/generators.
2. Crank the 'generator' handle. The 'motor' handle will rotate.
3. Hold on to the 'motor' handle. Notice that the 'generator' now requires more effort to crank.
4. Connect the 'generator' to the 6V bulb.
5. Crank the 'generator' handle. The bulb will light up. Note the dependence of brightness on cranking speed and direction.
6. Connect the 'generator' to the bi-colored LED.
7. Crank the 'generator' handle in one direction. Note which color lights up.
8. Crank the handle the other direction. Note that the other color now lights up.

Optional

• Connect the 'generator' to a 1F capacitor TAKING CARE TO ACCOUNT FOR POLARITY.
• Crank the 'generator' handle AGAIN TAKING CARE TO ACCOUNT FOR POLARITY. Ask students to vote on which way the handle will turn when released.
• Release the handle. Note the direction it turns.

Cautions:

• The Genecon motor/generators are fragile. Handle with care.
• The capacitor has a polarity. Do not apply a negative voltage to the positive side of the capacitor.

Setup Time: Short.

Difficulty: Straightforward.

Visibility: Medium. The aparatus is small but the handle motions and the lights are visible in a large lecture hall.

Related demonstrations:

References: "Adventures with the Genecon Hand Operated Generator"

Original Construction: Purchased.