isolation transformer need advice - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / projects

author: spdf
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2017, 07:04:06 pm
content: Hello guys, I've deceided to stay out of hazard while continue to learn and test electronic deveicesI would like to buy an isolation transformer, and would like to know if this particular candidate could suit me for that purpose.http://www.tme.eu/gb/details/tmb500_230v/transformers-with-fastening/indel/tmb-500002m1/#Edit: I think I found real isolation transformerhttp://www.tme.eu/gb/details/df-680500029/safety-transformers/df-electric/680500029/Does that mean that the main difference amog these examples that "safety" transformers has totally isolated cores?Thanks in advance!Cheers

author: Benta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2017, 07:24:57 pm
content: If you want to do it right, it should be insulation class II.

author: Zero999
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2017, 07:01:25 pm
content: Either of the units you've linked to should be fine.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2017, 08:31:19 pm
content: The best option is to get a CAT rated differential probe. An isolation transformer is only somewhat safe in the right environment and in the hands of a well trained technician. See the other threads about isolation transformers for the good reasons not to use them.With a CAT rated differential probe you don't have the risk of grounding the DUT through a less obvious path and making the situation more dangerous because now the GFI can't trip if you touch something..

author: Benta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2017, 08:50:11 pm
content: QuoteThere are extremely good reasons to use them.But only between mains and DUT.Where people get into trouble is when they're using an isolation transformer between mains and 'scope or other test equipment to measure directly on mains connected things.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2017, 08:57:50 pm
content: Quote from: Benta on September 12, 2017, 08:50:11 pmYou are making my point exactly! Don't play with fire.

author: RGB255_0_0
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2017, 09:17:00 pm
content: If you are getting one the type Shariar has in his lab (Signal Path) is ideal and he made good use of it in his latest video thanks to the fact it's a variable one. Can save you a lot of time, though poor man's lightbulb method is an option.

author: Benta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2017, 10:49:45 pm
content: Quote from: nctnico on September 12, 2017, 08:57:50 pmI disagree. Your approach is mushrooming, which I don't support or condone.It's better to inform people, that's what forums like this is about.Just shouting "don't use isolation transformers" is off the point.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2017, 10:53:27 pm
content: There is no point in repeating what has been posted before hence I pointed out that there are existing threads with exhaustive information on why you shouldn't use isolation transformers especially when wanting to have a safe way of measuring mains powered devices.