Transformer Instructions

Quick Start

General:

1.        The transformer plugs into an exterior GFI outlet.  Do not use extension cords with transformers.

2.       Each 300w circuit has its own circuit breaker (toggle switch) and Common (Black label that says COM).   E.g. a 300w transformer has 1 COMMON TERMINAL, 600w transformers have 2 COMMON TERMINALS, 900w transformers have 3 COMMON TERMINALS, a 1200w transformer has 4 300w COMMON TERMINALS.

3.       Use COMMON TERMINAL #1 until you begin to approach 300 watts of lamps used (for example when you reach 250-275 watts), then start using COMMON #2, and so on.

Connecting Home Runs to the transformer:

1.        The home run cable (e.g. 10/2 or 12/2) has two wires.  One wire gets connected to the COMMON TERMINAL (black label that says COM), the other wire connects to a VOLTAGE TERMINAL (the colored labels that say 12, 13,14, etc).  Which VOLTAGE TERMINAL you connect that particular wire on depends on the voltage you need for that run.  This is a MULTI-TAP transformer, which means you can output at a variety of voltages to compensate for VOLT DROP (see our learning area for more information on layouts and voltage drop).  For example, if you have a long run of 100 feet you may need to use the 15v VOLTAGE TERMINAL in order to have 12v of power all the way out at the far away fixtures.

2.       You can hook up multiple home runs to each and any of the terminals.  For example you may have 6 home runs, in which case you would have 6 wires in the same COM terminal and the other half of the 10-2 wires go into the colored terminals.  The VOLTAGE TERMINALS can have multiple runs/wires in each tap as well.

3.       To connect a home run wire to the terminals, split the 10-2 or 12-2 wire down the middle to separate the two wires and strip half an inch of insulation off each wire.  One end goes in the COM terminal, the other into a voltage terminal.  Loosen the terminal screws (small flat head screw driver) and insert the wire into the terminal opening which is located at the bottom (90 degrees from the terminal screw facing the bottom of the transformer).  Tighten screw to secure wire(s).

Other:

1.        Low voltage wire does not have polarity, it does not matter which of the 2 wire connects to the COMMON TERMINAL and which to the VOLTAGE TERMINAL, as long as one wire goes to each.

2.       Optional timers and photocells plug right into the transformer ports labeled and located inside the cabinet.

3.       It is easier to see and insert the wires into their terminals when the transformer is lying on the ground.  Affix all your wires BEFORE mounting the transformer.

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