[net.audio] How a Zerostat works

hazard@ihuxe.UUCP (09/30/83)

The Zerostat gun generates high voltage  electricity  by  sharply
striking  a  crystal.   Most  crystals  have  electrical-physical
properties.  They generate electricity when vibrated  or  sharply
hit.   Inexpensive  crystal  microphones  use  this  principle to
c
(as this property is called)  cigarette  lighters  use  the  high
voltage generated by a crystal to ignite the propane fuel.

The reverse,  electricity  to  physical  vibration,  is  used  in
digital  watches for the alarm beeper.  Crystals make compact and
efficient annunciators.