David Di Saia

Tom, Allanson offers a line of channel letter transformers that are designed specifically for environments found in typical CL installations. Our products are constructed of an extruded aluminum case with all components potted finished with end caps that are applied with gaskets. The “packed in metal” design makes them very tolerant to dampness as well as very strong shielding from RF. The most important things you need to know when using electronic neon transformers are the placement, clearance and proximity to separate systems within a single (larger) letter. • When there are more than one system (neon and transformer) in a single letter there needs to be no less than 1/2” inch of clearance between any surfaces of the glass from the adjacent system. The reason for this is cross talk where the RF from one system can effect the operation of another in the same letter. • The second is the secondary wiring from the transformer to the electrodes; we recommend that the wire be supported by a tube support no less than 6” from the transformer. Whenever possible it is recommended that the factory leads from transformer remain as equal in length as possible. Do not add long GTO jumps from units to unit if at all possible. • The neon from each system needs to be carefully placed in the letter maintaining at least 1/2 “ from all metallic surfaces including bend backs and sides of the channel letter etc. The advantages of using them are very good, lighter construction, quicker installation and the variable secondary voltage ranges negating the need for perfectly sized transformers. David

Good afternoon, Electronic (Solid State) Ballast and Neon Transformers have come a long way and for the most part are equal or better compared to their Ferromagnetic counterparts. When it comes to Solid State Neon the differences are specific to each brand, some are more sensitive to environmental conditions such as proximity to metal. Others are specifically designed in metal enclosures and made to mount in any environment regardless of proximity to metal and or plastic. Most can fall victim to “cross talk” a condition related to RF created by high frequency where the neon from one system is to close to another system and the stronger of the two can shut the other down. The fix is very simple and usually is corrected by making the clearance between systems a minimum of 1”. Some units have bi-pass which as you know is handy when trouble shooting. One of the most important things to remember when employing Solid State Neon transformers is proper aging of the neon. New neon has to be aged on ferromagnetic transformers due to the fact that SS transformers do not possess the brawn to age new tubes. This condition may be what some of you are referring to as “not as bright". The plusses are easier installations, service and more efficient power consumption making them a good choice for the environmentally conscious. Electronic (Solid State) Ballast like transformers they have come a long way from when the original units were introduced. Although most can produce 85% brightness of their ferromagnetic counterparts with recent advances in technology some are closer to 100% as bright. The parallel wired products have become a favorite of the mass producers allowing them to teach the process of secondary wiring to new fabricators quicker and more efficiently. Another plus is the weight they in some cases weigh 50% of the traditional ferromagnetic ballast. Recently the addition of simulated Rapid Start Solid State Ballast has changed the way we service signs. Where now have the ability to change from traditional ferromagnetic ballast with series wiring directly to a solid state ballast wire for wire. This was cumbersome using the parallel unit because it meant you had to wire all the way out to the lamp sockets. The major advantage is there are really only three units needed to service any lamping scenario in normal sign service life. Most have very good energy efficiency ratings as well. David Di Saia Allanson Lighting Electrics