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Rope Light Information Page

The following information should help you to have a better understanding of this 12volt wire system
and enable you to choose the products required to complete the system you wish to build.


If you still can't quite get your head around what is required please don't hesitate to call for advice.

Caution

Please note that care should be taken when installing low voltage rope and track systems to ensure that all electrical connections are properly tightened. Long runs and the high current associated with 12volt systems means that heat will be produced where connections are loose. The 6mm cable is rated at 300va (watts) maximum and at this wattage a max current of 25amps will be created. If connections are loose arcing can occur across any gaps resulting in burn out of the connection.

The maximum recommended run for Rope Lighting is 6metres. If longer runs are required these can be made by the use of insulated connectors effectively creating two separate runs / circuits. Each run will need to be supplied by a separate transformer. Using this method long runs can be created that appear continuous and the total wattage can be increased.

This wire system will provide you with a very attractive lighting option but it does need to be maintained at regular intervals.When changing lamps or adjusting fittings it is recommended that all connections are checked for tightness. IF the installation is in an area where movement is possible regular tighening of all connections is recommended as movement of the product will loosen connections and result in arcing.

 

Transformation

The ET300 transformer (see the dedicated transformer page) has been specially designed to provide a max of 300va for runs up to 6m in length. For short runs of max 2.5 metres a single output electronic transformer can be used. All these electronic transformers are silent in operation and can be dimmed.
Conventional wire wound toroidal transformers can be used but it is not recommended to use a dimmer with these as "humming" is often experienced
due to the length of the run. These toroidal transformers can also produce a start up electrical surge which can cause circuit breakers to trip out . This can be overcome by uprating the breaker to a "Type C"


General Information

The 6mm wire rope is fixed by means of cable holders and straining sets (these are sold in pairs). The straining sets allow adjustment to the tautness of the cable - on longer runs it is recommended to use straining sets at each end to obtain the necessary tension. The use of an in-line strainer can allow extra adjustment but on longer runs the cable may still need to be supported with ceiling supports which are available upto 15cm in length. If a longer drop is needed steel support wire is sold by the metre and steel wire holders can be used. The straining sets and cable holders come in two base sizes. The larger base utilising two screws allows for a better purchase which is essential on longer runs where the tension is higher. The smaller base has a hidden central fixing. If the wires are fixed to metal work or flooring insulated holders must be used. The 6mm cable is sold by the metre so if you require a 5 metre run you will need to order 10 metres for the 5 metre parallel run and additional cable to connect the transformer via the power feed nuts. Ensure that you use a min of 6mm cable between the transformer and the power feeds and try to keep this length to a minimum by mounting the transformer as near to the wire as possible.

Cable Width
The distance between the cables and hence the cable holders and straining sets, is determined by the choice of fitting - see the examples below

Selecting the components for the Rope Light System

STEP 1 - CABLE
The 6mm cable is sold by the metre. The maximum run is 6 metres after which voltage drop will be encountered. If you require a 5 metre run you will need to order 10 metres for the 5 metre parallel run and additional cable to connect the transformer via the power feed nuts. Ensure that you use a min of 6mm cable between the transformer and the power feeds and try to keep this length to a minimum by mounting the transformer as near to the wire as possible.

STEP 2 - MOUNTING
For wall mounting use one pack of cable holders at one end with one pack of straining sets at the other end. For the extra tension required in long runs use straining sets at each end. The larger double screw bases with two screws give a more secure purchase and the longer strainers offer increased tension. Insulated mounts are available for fixing to metal surfaces. Ceiling runs can be fixed directly to the ceiling using strainers each end and to mount the run further away from the celing use ceiling support rods to support and position your cable run.

STEP 3 - SUPPORT AND REROUTING
Rigid support rods and steel wire supports are available for use at the installers discretion. Rerouters can be used to change the direction of the cable, ideal for use in corners.

STEP 5 - POWER
Transformers can be Electronic - see the ET300 or electronic single output for short runs of max 2.5 metres. Toroidal wire wound transformers to a max of 300va can also be used but dimming is not recommended with these as long runs can produce resonance. Use of pack of power feeds per transformer and make the connection between the transformer and the power feeds using 6mm cable.

STEP 6 - FITTINGS
Select the appropriate fitting of your choice from the range carefully checking the lamp type. Fittings are sold excusive of lamps or accessories unless otherwise stated.
 
STEP 6 - LAMPS

IRC (Infra Red Coated) lamps are idealally suited for 12volt rope lighting. These lamps are 30% more efficient then standard 12volt lamps, have a long 5000 hour lamp life, and stay the same brightness throughout their lifespan. In a typical installation with 6 50watt lamps the system will be running at its maximum 300watts and producing 25 amps. By replacing the 50watt lamps with 35watt IRC lamps no light output will be lost but the current will be reduced to 17.5 amps not only saving energy costs but allowing the system to operate at a lower safer current. The 20watt IRC lamps are just as bright as a standard 240volt 50watt GU10 lamp and using 6 of these the current is reduced to 8.3amps and the wattage to 100watts.

 

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