isolating transformer

Thread Starter

juggler73

Joined Apr 10, 2010
47
hi
im looking to build a Mains Isolating Transformer for safety when working a lcd monitor's power supplies
ive seen that i could use 2 transformers of the same rating but not sure on which what type
can i use 2x 240v - 12v 50va and connected then up or do i need some more powerful
any help with this matter would be great
thanks
juggler
 

kubeek

Joined Sep 20, 2005
5,794
You need as many watts as your most demanding lcd needs. For lcd monitors 100W should be enough, but for large screens even 300W could be too small.
 

Kermit2

Joined Feb 5, 2010
4,162
You do not want to use a step up or step down transformer. You want a 1:1 isolation transformer that gives out the same voltage it takes in. No step up or down.

Use the "1:1", or One to One term in the google search for a transformer and you'll get lots of info.
 

kubeek

Joined Sep 20, 2005
5,794
Stepping down and up again is not a great solution, but if you have the two transformers with same voltage and high enough power rating it is better than nothing as obtaining an isolation transformer can be hard in some places.
 

thatoneguy

Joined Feb 19, 2009
6,359
Stepping down and up again is not a great solution, but if you have the two transformers with same voltage and high enough power rating it is better than nothing as obtaining an isolation transformer can be hard in some places.
And MUCH cheaper. 1:1 isolation transformers run in the 3 digit price range. A couple of 120-12V transformers with a high enough current rating will step the voltage down, and back up, giving isolation. Complete with box, it is still under $50. Remember to add fuses and breakers to the system as well.

That said, a 1:1 is PREFERRED, as going over about 300 watts with the step-down, step-up is a bit difficult.
 

R!f@@

Joined Apr 2, 2009
9,918
Unless U want to use scope on an LCD supply, u do not need Isolation.

Cause the way I see it, Isolated or NOT, SMPS primary deals with high Voltage.
If u scared to probe that area, a transformer is of no help.
 

debe

Joined Sep 21, 2010
1,389
Here in Australia quite a few old TVs had 240v to 240v isolation transformers varying from 100w to 200w I have used one of these mounted in a suitable box for working on live chassis, cheap way of doing it & works. Daryl
 

someonesdad

Joined Jul 7, 2009
1,583
You can also look for used equipment. New isolation transformers are expensive, but I found a 1 kW medical grade isolation transformer on ebay for $60 delivered a few years ago. Most of that was probably shipping expense, as it's pretty heavy.

As others have said, hooking two identical transformers together is a perfectly acceptable solution as long as you respect the power specs.
 
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