Here are five questions that will help you select the right electronic transformer for your needs.
- Plug-In or Hardwire
- 1. Do you need a plug-in electronic transformer? Yes or No
- Wattage
- 2. What wattage do you need?
[Hint: The wattage of the electronic transformer should always equal or exceed the total wattage of the entire lighting system.]
- Voltage
- 3. What voltage do you need? 12 volts or 24 volts
[Hint: 12-volt electronic transformers are often less expensive but 24-volt electronic transformers can power longer runs (circuits) of lighting. However, 24-volt electronic transformers must be used only with lamps (light bulbs) that are rated for 24V. If a 24-volt electronic transformer is used with lamps that are rated for only 12 volts, the lamps will burn out immediately.]
- AC or DC
- 4. Do you need an AC (alternating current) or a DC (direct current) electronic transformer?
[Hint: AC electronic transformers are often less expensive but DC electronic transformers can be placed at greater distances from the lighting system. An AC electronic transformer should not be placed any further than 10 feet from the lighting system while a DC electronic transformer may placed as far away as 50 feet.]
- Encased or Not
- 5. Do you need an electronic transformer that is encased (in a metal case)? Yes or No
[Hint: The metal case provides a safe and convenient storage space for the electrical splices (terminal block connections). If you select an electronic transformer that does not come in a metal case, it probably should be stored in some type of metal housing (e.g., a junction box).]
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