Frequently Asked Questions

Secondary Ground Fault Protection is a built-in safety feature that automatically shuts off the unit if the Secondary GTO leads come into contact with the ground. This precaution is essential for preventing fires and protecting property.

Overvoltage protection is a feature that disables the transformer when faced with a significant load. This mechanism is designed to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards.

Yes, our transformers are self-adjusting. They automatically adapt to the voltage required to ensure optimal sign illumination. For example, our CPI-10-35 model adjusts seamlessly from 2kV to 10kV as needed.

Our magnetic transformers are designed for outdoor use, while our electronic transformers are not recommended for outside applications. If you plan to use them outdoors, be sure to place them in a suitable enclosure.

Why is the bottom of the transformer metal?

Electric current consists of a flow of electric charge, typically carried by moving electrons in a wire. In our transformers, this charge flows through a glass tube across electrodes. Our models exhibit a higher flow of electrical charge, exciting more noble gases within the tube. This results in a brighter sign.

Our non-UL transformers adhere to the previous UL standard, UL506, which has been updated to the new UL2161. We continue to offer these models to provide a more economical choice for our customers.

No, CPI Advanced Inc.’s DC transformers are versatile and can be utilized in various sign applications wherever 12VDC power is available.

The GTO-10 is rated for 10,000 Volts, while the GTO-15 is rated for 15,000 Volts. The GTO-15 features enhanced insulation for better protection of both the user and the project, which is why CPI Advanced Inc. exclusively uses GTO-15 in our electronic neon transformers.

Some older CPI-10-35 transformers were labeled incorrectly with 0.57A as the input amperage. The accurate input amperage for these units is 1.2A.

No, using metal tie wires to secure the GTO wire is not advisable.

No, our power supplies maintain a consistent polarization.

Transformers are equipped with safety features that automatically shut off the unit under certain conditions. To prevent this:

• Always insulate the secondary leads with an END CAP or SHORT STOP to avoid grounding.
• Ensure that you account for all electrodes when calculating total footage.
• Providing incorrect power to the input can lead to overload and subsequent shutdown.

Mercury migration can occur due to several factors, including:

• Insufficient voltage supplied to the input.
• Crossed GTO secondary leads, which can lead to uneven power distribution.
• A leaking or contaminated glass tube, resulting in uneven lighting.
• A failing secondary component on the transformer, which may also contribute to mercury migration.