How many watts?
#1
10-20-03, 03:54 AM
How many watts?
As you can tell, I am a complete novice at this.
I have some Christmas wire sculptures with mini lights on them. It's hard to tell how many lights are on them. What kind of device can I get to measure how many watts these lights are taking up? I have some X-10 lamp modules that are rated at 300 watts and have blown several of them in the past. I would like to be able to see how much I am putting on them before I blow another one. Thanks
I have some Christmas wire sculptures with mini lights on them. It's hard to tell how many lights are on them. What kind of device can I get to measure how many watts these lights are taking up? I have some X-10 lamp modules that are rated at 300 watts and have blown several of them in the past. I would like to be able to see how much I am putting on them before I blow another one. Thanks
#3
10-20-03, 11:59 AM
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I would suggest a clampon amp probe, but the flashing would be too fast for most inexpensive meters to give a reading that fast. Is there a fuse on the plug end? What size is the fuse? Usually the fuse will be 25% higher than the full load current.
Your 300W x-10 device shouldn't have more than 2A on it continuously.
Your 300W x-10 device shouldn't have more than 2A on it continuously.
#4
10-20-03, 12:15 PM
I have found X-10 appliance modules work more reliably with Xmas lights. I have some very light loads (like a single window candle) and the lamp modules are not always stable if the load is too small.
Also the appliance modules have higher current ratings. The only problem is that they have a distinct "click" when they turn on and off.
Also the appliance modules have higher current ratings. The only problem is that they have a distinct "click" when they turn on and off.
