|
The transformer is the key to a low-voltage system. It reduces standard line voltage to 12 or 24 volts, which is safe to the touch. The total output wattage of the transformers determines the total wattage of the heads or pendants that can be used on the system. For example, a 300 watt transformer can power up to six 50 watt heads (6 x 50 = 300). There are several transformer options from which to choose. Knowing the advantages of each will help you to select the best transformer for your application.
Remote
Remote transformers are preferred for their clean look and range of power feed options. They are mounted in accessible locations, but out of view. Power is brought to the rail or cable system through an unobtrusive power feed canopy or other power feed option (sold separately).
|
About Remote Transformers |
|
|
|
Remote transformers provide a clean, minimal look because the transformer is installed in a remote, accessible location (such as above the ceiling or in a closet) out of view. Power is brought to the system with a system-compatible power feed canopy or other power feed option (sold separately). The remote transformer can be anchored to the wall or ceiling with screws or toggle bolts and should be installed no more than twenty feet from the power feed. It is important that the electrician supply the correct gauge of THHN wire from the transformer to the junction box to prevent voltage drop, which can cause fixtures to appear dim. See the chart below for proper wire gauge. For optimum performance, remote transformers should be loaded to at least 80 percent of capacity.
Power taps
Magnetic remote transformers have multiple secondary power taps to compensate for variations in voltage. An input voltage exceeding 120 volts may result in more than 12 or 24 volts on the system, which can shorten lamp life. Follow the installation instructions packaged with the transformer to determine which power tap to use.
Voltages
Tech Lighting transformers are standard for 120 volt input and for 277 volt input where noted. Other input voltages are available upon request. |
VS.
|
Surface
Surface transformers are decorative and will be visible in the room. They are best suited for applications where there is an existing junction box in a finished ceiling. The surface transformer has an integral power feed—there is no need for a separate power feed; however, the surface transformer must be placed within range of the rail or cable run.
|
About Surface Transformers |
|
|
|
Surface transformers mount to a standard 4” junction box with round plaster ring (provided by electrician) and are best suited for applications where there is an existing junction box. The magnetic or electronic transformer is concealed inside a decorative housing with an integral power feed—there is no need to purchase a separate power feed. The surface transformer for a MonoRail, Two-Circuit MonoRail, or TwinRail system must be placed directly above the system. The surface transformer for a Kable Lite system must be placed within two feet of the system. Surface transformers have a specific minimum drop depending on the wattage of the transformer—this dimension must be considered in determining how far the run will drop from the ceiling. Longer drops can be achieved by adding a power extender (for MonoRail, Two-Circuit MonoRail, or TwinRail), or hardwire feeds or center power feeds (for Kable Lite).
Tech Lighting’s magnetic surface transformers come standard with a debuzzing dimming coil to reduce noise when using a low-voltage magnetic dimmer. |
|
|
Magnetic
Magnetic transformers have historically been the choice of lighting professionals due to their reliability. We offer a wide range of output wattages for magnetic transformers. When dimming a magnetic transformer, it is important to use a low voltage magnetic dimmer.
VS
Electronic
Electronic transformers are much smaller and lighter than their magnetic counterparts and have the advantage of being resettable at the wall switch in the event of a system short circuit. We offer 12 volt electronic remote and surface transformers with 300 watt outputs. When dimming an electronic transformer, it is important to use a low voltage electronic dimmer.
12 Volt
12 volt transformers are most common. A 12 volt system requires that the elements on the system have 12 volt lamps, which are readily available in a range of wattages and beam spreads. A 12 volt transformer can power a run with 300 watts per power feed (600 watts for a dual-feed), running up to thirty feet in each direction from the power feed.
VS
24 Volt
24 volt transformers are best suited for installations with limited power feed locations. The elements on the system must have 24 volt lamps, which are not as widely available and offer fewer beam spreads. A 24 volt transformer can power a run with 600 watts per power feed (1200 watts for a dual-feed canopy), running up to sixty feet in each direction from the power feed. 24 volt transformers cannot be used on Two-Circuit MonoRail.
All of the transformers used by Tech Lighting comply with guidelines established by the National Electrical Code, with a maximum wattage on a 12 volt system at 300 watts per feed and a maximum wattage on a 24 volt system at 600 watts per feed.
| 
Browse By...
