Power Pack/Transformer Information - Find out how to determine which transformer your outdoor lighting system will require here. For product information, click on the links to the right of the page.

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Information on Power Packs and Transformers

"The power pack is the heart of the system"
The power pack/transformer plugs into a standard outlet and reduces the regular household current (120 volts), to a safe 12 volts.  Transformers range is size from a small unit, which powers a single entrance light, to large models that can safely operate 25 or more lights.  

To determine which power pack you'll need, simply add up the wattage of all the lamps you plan to use (this total is referred to a total nominal wattage - TNW).  Select a transformer that most closely matches the total nominal wattage of your lights.  For example, to power six 11-watt lamps, you'll need a power pack that has an output of at least 66 TNW.  As a rule of thumb, the total load wattage of the lamps should not be less than half of the transformer's TNW or VA rating, nor should exceed the transformer's maximum capacity.  If the total nominal wattage rating of the lamps is too high, divide the electrical load between transformers or use a more powerful power pack.  

For added security, economy and convenience, transformers are available with a variety of control options.  Some feature a timer that automatically turns lights on and off.  Others have photo controls that switch the lights on at the dusk and off at dawn.  Another transformer uses a photo control to turn lights on and an interval time setting to turn lights off. 

Automatic timer - This option is preferred when the lights are used for set periods each evening (for example, on at 8 p.m. and off at midnight).

Photo control - With this option, lights automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn.  One of the biggest advantages of a photo control is that it automatically adjusts to the lighting system for long winter nights and long summer days.  With a photo control, you never have to worry about lights being on during the day.  

Photo control w/ timer - This option provides the homeowner with even more flexibility.  You can use the photo control to turn lights on a dusk and automatically off at a set time, say 10 p.m.  This helps give homes a "lived-in" look even when homeowners are on vacation or at work.  

Manual control - This simple option is preferred when lights are installed in pool areas, on patios, around decks and at other locations that require only occasional lighting.  With a manual control, homeowners can turn the lights on and off whenever they desire.

Total nominal
wattage of 
transformer

16-gauge cable

14-gauge cable

12-gauge cable

max. watts

max length

max. watts

max. length

max. watts

max. length

44 watts

44 100 44 125 44 150

60 watts

60 100 60 125 60 150

88 watts

88 100 88 125 88 150

121 watts

121 100 121 125 121 150

200 watts

200 100 200 125 200 150

300 watts

300 100 300 125 300 150

  


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