Electronic – this component, and how can I use it

componentsidentification

Please see the attached photograph of the component:

enter image description here

My guess is that it is a solenoid, but I am not sure. If it is a solenoid, I would really like to use it. The problem, however, is that I do not know anything else about the component. There are no part/model numbers or any identification of any kind on the component.

In a situation like this, how do you go about putting a mysterious component to use. I generally don't throw away things simply because I don't know what they are, and am sure I could use this for something.

Best Answer

It looks like an electromagnet.

Start with a DMM - check the coil winding resistance. From there, you can probably make some educated guesses about where to start testing using a benchtop DC supply. Slowly increase the supply voltage. Keep tabs on when it starts to get hot, and you've likely found its continuous current limit.