Transformer question

Andrew2708

New elf
Joined
Dec 12, 2014
Messages
15
Hi all,

I was given this Xmas light but no transformer, do you know where I can buy a transformer or how to creatively get this working? eg cut the cable and maybe wire it to another??

Thanks

Andrew
 

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Notenoughlights

400,000+ twinkly lights
Joined
Oct 16, 2016
Messages
654
Location
Christchurch, New Zealand
Any transformer with 24VAC output greater than 36VA capacity will do the job. Jaycar perhaps, aliexpress may have something. Finding something with terminals and a housing with plug would be ideal to prevent having to mess around with the mains side.
 

BAZMick

Full time elf
Generous elf
Joined
Nov 26, 2019
Messages
484
That's the only one on Jaycar's site that fulfills requirements. Anyway what's wrong with a little bit of encouragement to get more lights! 😁
 

Mark_M

Annoying Elf
Joined
Dec 30, 2018
Messages
921
Location
Christmas Light world
With the image you have supplied.
We know that the output voltage must be 24v and AC.
We also know that the minimum power rating of the transformer is 36VA. (VA is voltage multiplied by amperage. So 36 divided by 24 = 1.5A).


1632119174571.png

This is what you need to look out for:
  • Little wave symbol or "AC".
  • 24v
  • At least 36VA or 1.5A written. This can be over. The bigger it is, the more lights can be run off it.
ac_transformer.JPG
What you DO NOT want is a DC power supply:
dc_power_supply.JPG

dc_ac.JPG


As for the connector:
Find a transformer with a barrel connector:
1632119923421.png
That way you can buy a plug to screw or solder onto the light string.
1632119941639.png

A barrel connector is an example. You can use something else, just make sure there is a matching connector avaliable.


I don't know about you, but here there's a few op shops that have bins full of transformers/power supplies. It's a great way they can sell something useful from a broken electronics devices.
Op shops are a cheap place to get them, they are not always tested though.

Online might have something.
Even a garage sale or online auction, usually the light string dies before the transformer.


Have a look around.
$65 would by 50m of lights at Bunnings, that's far more value than the transformer for used lights.
 

i13

Dedicated elf
Joined
Jul 5, 2013
Messages
1,172
My suggestion would be to post a "Wanted" thread. It is not unusual for forum members here to convert their traditional strings to computer control. That makes these plugpacks redundant.
 
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