TCBA founder, Harry Goldman and the TCBA logo

TCBA - Tesla Coil Builders Association

Devoted to the construction, operation and theoretical analysis of the Tesla coil

TCBA Volume 3 - Issue 1

Page 1 of 18

Happy New Year!

I'd like to start out by wishing you spark lovin' maniacs the best of happiness for 1984. May your coils spout longer and longer discharges. Also, let me take this opportunity to thank those of you who sent holiday greeting cards.

Decal Enclosed

Each subscriber to the 1984 edition of TCBA NEWS is entitled to one TCBA logo, decal. I've double checked each envelope to be sure that your decal is enclosed. If for some reason there has been an error, please notify me.

Extra Decals

Those who wish to order extra decals may do so by sending $1 with an SASE. Otherwise, the fee is $1.25.

Those who paid the extra $.25 for a decal to be enclosed in this envelope need not have done so. The $.25 charge is only for separate mailings.

I'll either credit your account or send an additional decal (depending upon how many you ordered).

Decal Problems

Getting a decal made up for TCBA was not without headaches. I entered my order during the summer. Too bad the shipment came through with Tesla's name spelled “TELSA.” (great!)

These were returned for correction. The second batch arrived in reasonable time but the decals had a one piece backing instead of the usual split back. This made it nearly impossible to remove.

The final shipment arrived in December. For a while, I was not sure that TCBA would be able to furnish the decals along with the January newsletter.

So, now that you have heard my story, let me know of your feelings when it comes to future logo forms such as an emblem, iron-on “T” shirt, etc..

Applying your Decal

When applying these decals, I found it possible to leave air bubbles under the surface. Care should be taken to avoid this situation. Should I have ordered the wet type?

Concern

In Volume 2 #3, it was stated that “Plans for the future (of TCBA) remain somewhat cloudy.” That statement brought a healthy response from concerned members. The letters were unanimous in favor for continuing the organization. Said one, “TCBA is the best thing that has come along in a long time.”

Some of the most interesting letters came from the old timers in the field of electrical engineering, radio, and related professions. I only wish that we had space in the newsletter to share these comments with you.

My concern for the life of the organization is not for the present or immediate future. After we cover the basics, what happens in 2, 3, or 4 years from now?

As I see it, TCBA is the only showcase available to anyone who has built a Tesla coil. It is my desire that each issue carry 2, 3, or 4 project articles covering Tesla coil activity by the membership. Thus far, I have been lucky to have had one member represented in each issue. Take note that no one was represented in the October issue.

In addition, we need technical articles from experts with considerable experience in this field. Thus far, we have been fortunate to have had several excellent contributions.

Fortunately, I have sufficient material to cover the “Tesla Coils Resurrected” column for the near future. In addition, we have sufficient funds to cover our expenses.

The bottom line is that the life of the organization depends upon incoming material. That's my concern!