Most homeowners can set up a low-voltage lighting system without help from an electrician. Another low-voltage advantage is that new lights can be installed while the power is on. This is especially helpful when you're positioning lights at night. At the heart of a low-voltage system is the transformer, which reduces household current and controls the times that the lights are on. Some models include a photocell that can be used to turn the lights on at night and off in the daytime.
Most lights are easy to assemble.
Metal teeth in the clamp pierce the insulation on the cable and tap into the wiring. Lights are usually available in kits that include a transformer, various lights and at least 50' of cable. If you wish, you can add more lights, more cable or a larger transformer. For those who prefer not to deal with cable, solar-powered lights are available. These lights are more expensive, however, and usually require an average of 8 hours of direct sunlight per day to function properly.