Transformer Help Please

[eightwgt]

Guys I bought a transformer from radio shack - (273-1512) Im not the electronics guru and need help. How is the input / output determined ? There are 3 wires on one side, 2 on the other..... a standard setup but I know nothing about what is what.

Id appreciate someone settin me straight

Thanks

[AndyOne]

What are you wanting to use it for? This determines what help you need.

Andy.

[rick.benjamin]

(273-1512B) Heavy Duty Power Transformer Specifications
Primary: .................................................. ....... 120 VAC
Secondary: ................................................ 25.2 VAC CT 2A (CT = Center Tap)
DC Resistance Primary: ......................................... 11.8 Ohms
Secondary: ....................................... 0.64 Ohms
Primary current (No Load): ....................... 140 mA at Input 120 VAC
(Loaded): ................................... 760 mA Max.
Core Loss at 25 degrees C.: ...................................... 4 Watts
Temperature Rise: ................. 75 degrees C. at 25 degrees C. Ambient
Bobbin Material: .................................................. . Nylon
Primary color Code: ...................................... Black (2 Wires)
Secondary Color Code: ................................... Yellow (2 Wires)
(Black for Center Tap)
Insulation Resistance: .......................... 500 VDC @ 100 MOhms Min.
Dimensions (HWD): ........................... 2 1/4 x 2 3/4 x 2 1/4 Inches

[rick.benjamin]

The "IN": 2 black wires connect (CAUTION!) to 120 volts AC (commercial power).
The "OUT": 2 yellow wires will provide 25 volts AC.
The "OUT" yellow side also has a 3rd black wire, the "center tap".

[eightwgt]

Thanks guys......

Here is a 'schematic' Its a power supply for a hot wire cutter - I got it from the Charles River Radio Controllers site

I have the components as listed on the page and was confused about hooking up the transformer.... and Im ready to cut some foam =)

[rick.benjamin]

The cutting bow hooks up to the yellow wires. Cut off the 3rd black wire. :)

[eightwgt]

I am just trying to hook this up safe...... Thats all , and I am confused due to my lack of knowledge regarding electronics....

[rick.benjamin]

assemble your design (please, don't plug it into the wall outlet until all the bare wires and connectors are covered with electric tape. This also goes for the alligator clips and the wires grasped in their toothy jaws.

Position the foam blank securely on a wooden, or formica bench (no metal bench)
Position the cutting bow
THEN, plug in the cutting contraption.

Wear dry leather gloves.
Don't stand on wet floor.
Ensure ventilation (some foam releases poisonous gasses when cut)
Good Luck

[eightwgt]

Rick.....

I have used foam cutters before, wired up a few things too.....

I am still trying to find out WHAT wires on the transformer go to output ? I know the primary are input... but are the output wires the 2 yellow ? What about the center wire ?

This is what I am confused about

Thanks

[ParkFlyer314]

yes, the two yellow wires are the outputs. You dont need the black wire, but you should safely tape it off so it doesnt short anything.

[eightwgt]

Thanks Park


I just hooked it all up and did a test cut - worked perfect. Ill be cutting wings soon