by ericmark »
Tue Jun 21, 2022 11:00 am
It is rare today to use a simple transformer, most are switch mode power supplies, which means the output is often in the MHz range rather than 50 Hz, or even DC.
So step one is read what is on the original unit, in the main switch mode power supplies say some thing like 20-60 VA, VA is volts x amps which is nearly the same as watts, but what we are looking for is not starting at zero, if 60 Watt max could be a simple transformer, but if says will not go below a figure then likely a switched mode power supply.
Today you can get switched mode power supplies starting a zero, which is great, it means you can then use an LED bulb from same supply, but if the motor is designed for 50 Hz don't want a switched mode.
You can get toroidal transformers for lighting which are 50 Hz, the are heavier, and more expensive. You can also get LED drivers, which are DC, but careful some fixed voltage and some fixed current, you likely need fixed voltage type.