listerofsmeg wrote:

Hi all,

I am setting up a CCTV system, which will have about 8 cameras.
Each of these cameras requires a 12V 200mA supply.

After a bit of research, it appears I can have one transformer (say
12V 2A), and take LV power lines off for the cameras in parrallel.
Does this seem right?

Ok, my problem appears to be finding a transformer!
Firstly, they seem to have different power ratings. Some are in amps,
some are in Watts, and some are in "VA"s whatever they are. Anyone
know how to work out one from the other.

Secondly, everywhere I look seems to have these strange light, white
thin transformers that are primarily used to low voltage lighting. Can
I use one of these to power my cameras? After googling a bit there are
reports that these throw off a lot of RF interference which is no good
to me. Also I will have some pretty long cable runs (20 meters), and I
have read that some have restrictions on cable length.

What I was really after was a good old "black lump" transformer that
plugs into a mains socket, but I can't find any of these online at
all! Are they called something different?


Get a toroidal low voltage lighting transformer of at least 50VA.

Thanks,
Lister.