I am looking for a source for either a single strobe or a string of strobe lights that I can use inside a "Shadow Box" to create the illusion of electrical sparking (like a downed power line). I think one or two well-placed lights might do the trick...but a string would work as well. Any ideas?

Strobes are pretty cheap; probably less than $20. You may find some good info here, though I can't vouch whether it's up to date or not. Check the bottom for "Related Pages" as well for additional info.

http://www.horrorseek.com/home/halloween......obe.html

You'll probably also want to synchronize a "Bzzt!" sound effect. Without knowing your current setup, I can't offer any suggestions as to the best way to set it up, though.

I'm not sure they are bright enough for your use, but the strobes from disposable cameras are very cheap and easily modified. Recently I saw the units for sale on line for a few dollars. Sorry I don't remember where but you can always remove one frome a used camera. The instructions for doing so are easily found with a Google search.

Be careful modifying strobes and camera flashes. They use a lot of power- the charge gets built up in capacitors until it's needed. My cursory googling revealed it's pretty easy to convert one into a taser, so they're not the kind of thing you want to accidentally discharge into your body.

Very true. A disposable camera strobe won't kill you if you get across the caps, but you'll wish you hadn't done it!

I bought a set of 4 strobes at Pep Boys automotive parts store. They were around $20 - $30 and have adjustable strobe settings and run on 12 volts. Each strobe is about 3/4" in diameter by 1/2" high. Very bright.

Dan

Thank you all...I DID, indeed, plan on the "bzzt" sound effect!

I am making my shadow box look like an electrical or nuclear frame, with black and yelliw stripes.

I REALLY wanted to use flash paper (and lots of it), but the fire marshall might get his panties in a bunch....