On Sun, 06 Apr 2008 17:19:30 -0400, I wrote:

do I want a magnetic or electronic transformer?

I found this:

MAGNETIC TRANSFORMERS operate at standard low frequencies (5O/6O Hz). They
offer very reliable operation and are very durable, Since magnetic
transformers operate at low frequencies, they experience much less vo1tage
drop over a long distance compared to high frequency electronic
transformers. For optimum performance, all our magnetic transformers must
be loaded to a minimum of 80% of the transformers maximum output wattage.
For example, a 300W transformer must be loaded to a minimum of 240W in
order for the output voltage to be equal to or less than 12VAC. Otherwise
the output voltage will be greater than 12VAC and cause lamps to burn out
prematurely. All Fusion magnetic transformers are designed to carry a full
load.

ELECTRONIC TRANSFORMERS are very compact and much smaller than their
magnetic counterparts. They provide built in protection against electrical
shorts applied at the outputs and to the lighting system, In order for
electronic transformers to operate properly, the output must be loaded to a
minimum of 50% of the rated wattage of the transformer. Any output load
below 50% may result in lamps flickering and premature lamps burning out.
Since electronic transformers operate at much higher frequencies, most
standard volt and amp meters intended for 6Ohz type measurements cannot be
used to accurately measure the outputs of these transformers. To measure
the output, we recommend using a Fluke digital multimeter model number 189.

Electronic transformers may cause interference with appliances such as TVs
and radios. If interference is a problem, a line filter may be installed
either at the transformer or at the appliance input, Another option is to
use a magnetic transformer, which operates at a lower frequency and will
not cause any interference.

Don www.donwiss.com (e-mail link at home page bottom).