I'm an electronic enthusiast (unfortunately I don't have much knowledge on the subject past basic components and volts, current, watts, etc) and I am wanting to know what the best/simplest method would be to generate heat (A noticeable amount from room temperature, at least) using a 3-12 volt (DC) source (with around 10-20A) without heating up the source or other cables (only heat up a specific cable).
A simple wire connected to both ends of the source will create heat, however it will also heat it up. I need a way to create heat without this.
Sorry for any bad explanations, I don't fully know what I'm talking about.
Best Answer
With resistance wire like nichrome.
Nichrome wire has a small resistance, but much higher than regular wire. Its often used to make heating elements.
To keep the heat away from the power supply, you would use regular wire at each end, with a length of nichrome wire in the middle.
The power draw and heat created depends on the length and resistance of the nichrome - it comes in different gauges with different resistances per length.