Wiring new salon

[Phiper]

Hi guys...Putting in 26 rooms, therefore 26 3a(s). I would like to run one common low voltage power cable and tap off of that for each timer. I need to know how do you figure out the transformer amperage requirement? What size wire would you recommend? Thanks!!--------------------Viper Jon@phiper.fws1.com

[Dan Boone, ADI]

Good question and topic.We do include a power supply for each 3A, as a convenience, but many salon installations go the route of a common power supply for all rooms.Some installers elect to plug the common power supply into a battery backed UPS to keep the timers running during a short power loss.Each timer requires 200mA of power (1/5 of an AMP) Additionally, the timers require a 9-12 VDC or VAC supply.If the power supply provides too low of a voltage, the wiring resistance will drop the available voltage to an unacceptable level. If the power supply provides too high of a voltage, the timers may shut down during the session.So.... for your installation.. 26 timers will require a total current of (26 x 0.2A) = 5.2 AMPS. Bump it up to at least 6 AMPS.Go with a 12 VDC supply @ 6+ AMPS.For the wire, it needs to be able to handle 6 AMPS. I would suggest a 18 - 22 ga. stranded wire pair. Thanks for the excellent question.Dan Boone, ADI

[Dan Boone, ADI]

I need to add one more suggestion.As this is a new installation, indicating new beds...Many of the newer tanning units now incorporate the T-Max timer as an integral part of the equipment.These beds do not require a 3A in the room, as a T-Max compatible timer is built into the tanning unit control circuitry.Makes life a little easier for the installer, salon owner, and customer.Dan Boone, ADI

[Phiper]

Thanks Dan!Would it make any difference to split the salon in half and run 13 beds on a 12VAC-3amp transformer or just leave it the way you suggested?I will be mixing in some 1A(s) as well as 3A(s).Thanks!--------------------Viper Jon@phiper.fws1.com

[Kevin Barrett]

Splitting the salon and using 3Amp power supplies for each side will be fine. T-Max 1As and 3As draw the same current.Kevin BarrettADI Tech Support

[Brian Oshman]

Use a 1.0KVA buck/booster. Wire it for 120 volt in and 12 volt out. Use 18 ga. bell wire and make a home run to the transformer for every six timers. Doing this will eliminate a voltage drop when all the timers are energized otherwise they will reset all the time. Using a buck/booster makes the install easy since you won't have to buy an enclosure for it. Works great, use it all the time for installs. Use a dedicated breaker. H1 & H3 to L1 in H2 & H4 to L2 in X1 & X3 and X2 & X4 to 12 volt out. Purchase a 120/240primary 12/24 secondary type transformer.

[CHUNN]

Wish I thought about that before building my last salon. Good Advise.

[Phiper]

Thanks Brian, good idea, I'll look into it. (That is why I mentioned about splitting the salon in half to help get away from any voltage and amprage drop.)--------------------Viper Jon@phiper.fws1.com