How to Install Variable Transformer Studio Lighting

A transformer adjusts the output voltage of a circuit by transferring the electrical current through the air. It can do this because alternating current circuits create a magnetic flux around a coiled wire. By changing the distance between the two coils, the output voltage changes as well. Installing a transformer on a studio lighting circuit allows the illumination of the lights to be adjusted with a dimmer switch.

Non-contact voltage detector
Wire strippers
Twist-on wire connectors
Pliers
Screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the power for the circuit you are working on at the building's electrical panel. Confirm the power is off by touching a non-contact voltage detector to the wire's insulation. Double check the power is off by trying to turn on the lights.
- 2
  Cut the power wire for the studio lights in the location you want to install the transformer. Strip 3/8 inch of insulation off the conductors on both ends.
- 3
  Twist together the white wire from the transformer with the white wires from the light circuit with pliers. Install a twist-on wire connector on top.
- 4
  Twist together the black input wire on the transformer with the black source wire coming from the electrical panel and install a twist-on wire connector on top.
- 5
  Twist together the black output wire on the transformer with the black wire going to the lights and install a twist-on wire connector on top.
- 6
  Loosen the grounding screw in the electrical box with a screwdriver. Wrap both bare or green wires around this ground and tighten it down.
- 7
  Push the wires and transformer into the electrical box and secure with the four screws provided. Install the cover on the electrical box with the screws provided.

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