Tracking down a transformer

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networkn

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#113574 21-Jan-2013 11:18

Hi There!

We have transformers which keep blowing in our spotlights. We have been waiting 4 months for the original supplier (Lighting Direct) to send us replacements but they have delayed again, and at this stage, of the 8 lights in our kitchen only 4 have been working for the last 6 months.

The part code of the unit I need is SET105F-2 which is a 35-105v and has written on it:

Electronic Transformer for LV-Halogen Lamps
Model SET105F-2 35-105VA

Code on barcode on the back KE-SL332-2-TRANS

8694 Transformer for reveal 2&4L
I can't find anywhere in NZ who has it, so I resorted to looking overseas, but I can't get a reply from any of the suppliers there either.

Anyone able to assist with locating one? (Or 3)

ubergeeknz

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Vocus

#748137 21-Jan-2013 11:20

Pretty sure Jaycar have 12v halogen transformers

networkn

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#748139 21-Jan-2013 11:21

Oh lots of places have them. The issue is that they need to be these ones or same spec and size (These are very small and flat) to fit inside the light fitting.

nickb800

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#748175 21-Jan-2013 13:00

You could try approach these guys http://www.electricaldirectltd.co.nz/ to see if they could source, they are usually pretty awesome.

I'm curious, which branch of Lighting Direct were you dealing with? Having sourced most of our lights for a new build recently through our local branch, we found them to be utterly useless - they always promised that items we had ordered (and paid for) would arrive instore by a certain date, which they were almost always (signifcantly) delayed.

In the end we ended up getting a fair bit of stuff from Electrical Direct as they could get the products instantly and often at half the price of Lighting Direct.

Skolink

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#748190 21-Jan-2013 13:25

Do they really have to fit inside the light fitting? Why don't you put the transformer in the ceiling, and have the wire from the transformer (in the ceiling) to the spotlight run at 12V instead of 230V?

networkn

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#748199 21-Jan-2013 13:42

skolink: because I wasn't aware you could do this and I am worried (as someone who doesn't spend time with messing around with electricity about potential other issues like fire risk etc from heat (If that is a factor).

Skolink

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#748208 21-Jan-2013 14:04

networkn: skolink: because I wasn't aware you could do this and I am worried (as someone who doesn't spend time with messing around with electricity about potential other issues like fire risk etc from heat (If that is a factor).

Heat is a factor, for the transformer if in a tight space or covered by insulation, and for the cable if it is particularly thin since the 12V cable will carry significantly (approx 19x) the current compared to at 230V.

networkn

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#748209 21-Jan-2013 14:04

Thanks Nick I'll give them a shout.

Niel

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#748439 21-Jan-2013 20:30

Ask these guys if they would air mail to New Zealand. Takes only 7 days.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Self-SET-105F-2-SET105F2-Halogen-Trafo-Transformator-12V-35-105-Watt-dimmbar-/120959120404?pt=DE_M%C3%B6bel_Wohnen_Lampen_Lichtzubeh%C3%B6r&hash=item1c29b9b414

You can never have enough Volvos!

Niel

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#748454 21-Jan-2013 20:38

Or Google the part number and go to images, then you can find web sites which list it. The manufacturer is Ningbo Shelf, we often use them for power adapters and are not bad, but they will not deal direct with you (or us for one transformer). It looks like it is a common part in Europe.

You can never have enough Volvos!

davide

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#749965 24-Jan-2013 07:22

Sorry for the late reply, ex Lighting Direct employee here.
If these are the older model Reveal spots without the vent slots in the base, then you'll often see issues with overheating transformers. Are the fittings under warranty still? If so, you might be able to convince a manager to remove transformers from a new fitting and give them to you. If not, they won't.

Which store were you dealing with, out of interest? :)

I would suggest running EED (Energy Efficient Dichroic) lamps in the fitting, these are 35w and put out a similar amount of light to the 50w MR16s in the same lamp size. This has the advantage of the transformer running under it's max load and hopefully not cooking itself. All the new fittings come with EED lamps installed, so 35w on a 50w capable trafo.

Hope this helps :)
David

------------------------------------------------------
David Elsbury
Freelance Lighting, Sound and AV Technician
"Technician like ninja... live in shadow, move in silence"

networkn

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#756985 7-Feb-2013 15:16

davide: Sorry for the late reply, ex Lighting Direct employee here.
If these are the older model Reveal spots without the vent slots in the base, then you'll often see issues with overheating transformers. Are the fittings under warranty still? If so, you might be able to convince a manager to remove transformers from a new fitting and give them to you. If not, they won't.

Which store were you dealing with, out of interest? :)

I would suggest running EED (Energy Efficient Dichroic) lamps in the fitting, these are 35w and put out a similar amount of light to the 50w MR16s in the same lamp size. This has the advantage of the transformer running under it's max load and hopefully not cooking itself. All the new fittings come with EED lamps installed, so 35w on a 50w capable trafo.

Hope this helps :)
David

Finally Lighting Direct sorted it and I have ordered replacement bulbs in line with your recommendation, thank you.