"NSM" writes:

"Terry" wrote in message
.. .

Agree:
Be careful not only of the AC voltage on the secondary of that transformer
but the voltage doubling DC circuit which can more than adequately kill
you!
Not only that; if you operate with the cover off stand clear of possible
microwave radiation!
After all they are a half kilowatt microwave transmitter in a tin box!
I will venture a guess that if the transformer (with the power off and
unplugged) tests continuity and doesn't look burnt up, it is not faulty.
More likely another component, all operating at very (repeat very) high
voltage.

Yep. This is a classic case of stand on dry newspaper, use one hand only,
clip the leads to the machine and then cycle AC power at the wall for the
test. One flash and you're ash. There aren't many items more hazardous to
service - except maybe neon signs.

Neon signs are trivial in comparison.

The different between 20 or 30 mA and 0.5 to 1 AMP.

Neon sign transformers are current limited.

Still near the threshold of lethality but microwave transformers are
way over it.

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