Two types of pilot lights: Full Voltage vs. Transformer - why choose one over the other?
Two types of pilot lights: Full Voltage vs. Transformer - why choose one over the other?
(OP)
I've got to install pilot light on a indicating panel. 125VDC, LED. Amber colored. It just goes through a contact and lights up. The Vendor or choice is putting a two week lead time on the full voltage type. That's too long.
I never considered the "transformer" type, as they make one in full voltage. Why would you use that type? Is it better?
I never considered the "transformer" type, as they make one in full voltage. Why would you use that type? Is it better?






RE: Two types of pilot lights: Full Voltage vs. Transformer - why choose one over the other?
Try the GE ET-16 or ET-16 LED. A resistor on the lampholder body determines the voltage.
old field guy
RE: Two types of pilot lights: Full Voltage vs. Transformer - why choose one over the other?
"Transformer type" just means YOU have to tell them the voltage you are giving to the primary side of a tiny transformer (via selection) but for the LED driver, it is ALWAYS coming off of a consistent secondary voltage of that transformer. That way EVERY one of the LED driver boards is exactly the same, more volume, less carrying cost, lower overall price (or more profit). So mfrs are "driving" our buying habits in that direction by making the full voltage concept distasteful using longer lead times and/or higher prices.
"Will work for (the memory of) salami"
RE: Two types of pilot lights: Full Voltage vs. Transformer - why choose one over the other?
RE: Two types of pilot lights: Full Voltage vs. Transformer - why choose one over the other?
These can be made to work over a wide input voltage range. 100 to 240 Vac is a common wall wart spec. and that could be expanded without too much trouble. DC operation is also possible (full wave bridge input before the inverter stage). And size/efficiency is not an issue. 5V USB supplies are made in an enclosure little larger than a standard US plug (could probably fit a single board Linux computer in a British plug
RE: Two types of pilot lights: Full Voltage vs. Transformer - why choose one over the other?
It's on the order of 1/10 the price of the Allen-Bradley 800 series.
What does SMPS mean?
RE: Two types of pilot lights: Full Voltage vs. Transformer - why choose one over the other?
Lovato seem to be gaining market in the bottom end industrial / commercial market where price is a big factor. Never really used their products so can't comment objectively. Interested in feedback though if you do use them.
SMPS = switched mode power supply, high efficiency power conversion.
RE: Two types of pilot lights: Full Voltage vs. Transformer - why choose one over the other?
Transformer-based indicators are a throwback to the days of incandescent indicator lights; higher voltage incandescent filaments were mechanically fragile and had low lifetimes, so transformers were placed ahead of the low voltage (typically 6-12v) lamp at each indicator. With the advent LED indicators, these are now obsolete.
Buy yourself an LED indicator for the voltage you require and you'll never have to replace it in your lifetime, or that of your grandchildren. Lower current draw, no appreciable heat, and they last forever. What's not to love?
SceneryDriver
RE: Two types of pilot lights: Full Voltage vs. Transformer - why choose one over the other?
Best to you,
Goober Dave
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RE: Two types of pilot lights: Full Voltage vs. Transformer - why choose one over the other?
SceneryDriver
RE: Two types of pilot lights: Full Voltage vs. Transformer - why choose one over the other?