The Simplest DC Motor in the World?

Energy & Sustainability Technology

In addition to being an online editor for MAKE Magazine, Michael Colombo works in fabrication, electronics, sound design, music production and performance (Yes. All that.) In the past he has also been a childrens' educator and entertainer, and holds a Masters degree from NYU's Interactive Telecommunications Program.

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April 26th, 2013 20

I was just hanging out at Al Lasher’s Electronics in Berkeley when the proprietor Bob showed me this little gizmo. It’s the creation of one of his customers and is definitely the simplest DC motor I’ve ever seen. An AA battery sits on top of a couple neodymium magnet, and a coil of wire balances on top of the positive pole of the battery. Once it’s set up the motor spins right up.

I can’t think of a motor that’s more simple and elegant than this one. Can you?