When selecting a power amplifier for our Pointer series, for example, it is important to consider not only the driver’s maximum power but also its forward voltage (Vf).
Step 1
Determine whether the spotlights should be controlled in series (mA) or in parallel (24V). Since the Pointer series may only be installed on a current-based circuit (500mA / 700mA), we automatically arrive at the wiring diagram on page 185 of our catalogue.
Step 2
Determine the power (watts) and forward voltage (Vf) of the product model. For the Pointer 40, this information can be found in our table on page 57 of our catalogue. For the Pointer series, we arrive at the following data:
Pointer 40 fix = 5.7W @ 500mA (Vf 11.4)
Pointer 68 fix = 8.0W @ 700mA (Vf 11.5)
Step 3
Determining the maximum wattage and maximum forward voltage. In this case, we are assuming a new Casambi power supply. The datasheet is easy to find on theTCI website.
At500mA, the driver’s maximum power is 27W, and the forward voltage must not exceed the range of 10–54V
At700mA, the driver’s maximum power is 36W, and the forward voltage must not exceed the range of 10–54V
TCI refers to this as a 38W power supply, but this is not the case for all drive currents!
Step 4
Determining how many spotlights can be connected to the power supply.
Pointer 40 fix= 5.7W @ 500mA (Vf 11.4) > 4 spots is 22.8W (just under 27W, while the Vf of 45.6 (4×11.4) is within the 11–51V range.
Pointer 68 fix= 8.0W @ 700mA (Vf 11.5) > 4 spots is 32.0W (just under 36W, while the Vf of 46.0 (4×11.5) is within the 11-51V range.