Abstract: A welding training system includes one or more welding operator device which provides positional feedback relevant to a quality weld. The positional feedback is analyzed and, when the positional feedback is outside of a predetermined range, a signal is provided to the welding operator. In one embodiment, tactile feedback is provided in a welding gun.

Abstract: A welding training system includes one or more welding operator device which provides positional feedback relevant to a quality weld. The positional feedback is analyzed and, when the positional feedback is outside of a predetermined range, a signal is provided to the welding operator. In one embodiment, tactile feedback is provided in a welding gun.

Abstract: A system and method for forming an arc between an electrode and a workpiece is disclosed. The present invention includes a method of initiating an arc that includes comparing voltage across output terminals of a stick welder to a voltage threshold, and if the voltage across the output terminals is less than the voltage threshold, increasing the voltage across the output terminals to an arc formation OCV. The output voltage of the stick welder will be driven to a lower OCV if an arc is not formed between an electrode and a workpiece within a given period of time.