Friday, January 13, 2006

DIY 12 Volt Cable Lighting

After CES and MacWorld I feel overwhelmed by technology. It's time to get the most out the gadgets I already own.

So this weekend's project will be to install cable lighting in the front room (Our building originally had gas lighting and the front room still doesn't have any ceiling lights).

The main cost was $80 for the transformer and cable at $1.50 per foot. It's a commercial transformer and I'll be wiring the input for 120volts myself (If postings to this blog stop, call the ambulance).

Tomorrow I'll go to OSH for a 3-point plug and steel hardware to support the cables. Shouldn't cost more than $20.

Progress report tomorrow.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

How many 35 watt lights will your transformer support?

reynolds.peter@gmail.com said...

The 300 watt transformer I'm using can support eight 35 watt lights (300/35 < 9)

Anonymous said...

where (in the Bay Area) did you buy your system. What products or dealers do you recommend?

reynolds.peter@gmail.com said...

I bought the cable and transformer at Universal Electric Supply Company of 438 8th Street in SF
(Parking on Converse St off Bryant).
It's a warehouse for contractors, so don't expect much in the way of customer service.

The light fixtures were on sale online at Lowes or Home Depot. The fixtures can be expensive, but there are no rules to say you can't make your own light fixtures!