Transformer question

[Andrew2708]

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

 

[Notenoughlights]

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]

240V to 24VAC 150VA Lighting Transformer | Jaycar Electronics

Delivers 150W at 24VAC.Enough to run 3 x 50W, or 5 x 20W and one 50W, or 7 x 20W, all of these must be 24V rated. - Transformer is not waterproof and must be kept indoors.

www.jaycar.com.au

 

[Mark_M]

240V to 24VAC 150VA Lighting Transformer | Jaycar Electronics

Delivers 150W at 24VAC.Enough to run 3 x 50W, or 5 x 20W and one 50W, or 7 x 20W, all of these must be 24V rated. - Transformer is not waterproof and must be kept indoors.

www.jaycar.com.au

Expensive and over kill for a string of lights.... but that does meet the 24v and has 4 times the power.

 

[BAZMick]

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]

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).




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.

What you DO NOT want is a DC power supply:

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As for the connector:
Find a transformer with a barrel connector:

That way you can buy a plug to screw or solder onto the light string.


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

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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]

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.