help! step-down transformer and electrical extensions for 1400W amp

[iansoh]

Hi guys, not sure where to post this question but I think hardware guys would know best.

I have an amplifier which is rated 1400W, 110V. I bought a 1500W step-down transformer to use with this.

curious observation: the step-down transformer only switches on when it is plugged into the wall socket directly. I was hoping to plug the step-down transformer into a 4-socket electrical extension block, so that I can plug my other 240V amps into the same power block. When I try to do this, the entire power block switches itself off as soon as I switch on the transformer. When I switch off the transformer, power is restored to all 4 sockets.

Any explanations and solutions? I really need to be able to power several amps including my 110V amp from just one wall socket.

 

[kongwee]

Your transformer went into protection mode I guess. Too much initial current. Why you wanna plug 240V equipment into 110V power source?

 

[iansoh]

oh dear kongwee please re-read carefully you've completely misunderstood

 

[blueprintstudios]

i wouldn't "guess" or take chances with untrained electrician talk on this one. especially dealing with expensive amps.

what I can tell you doesn't help is that I have lesser experience than you do when it comes to this but I'd like to learn as we go, help me to help you/help others.

just to confirm that I read it correct : assuming your transformer has power outlet for 1x 240V amp and 1x110V amp.(I've only bought 1 before)

power socket > transformer1400w110v > 4 socket ext > #1,2,3,4 = 240V amps.
but transformer1400w110v > also has an outlet for your 110V amp.
and you want transformer1400w110v to power all 5 amps at once.

have you tried something like the other way round?
power socket > 4socketext > #1 = transformer > 110V amp + 1x240V amp.
#2,3,4 the remaining 3 amps.
does it work that way? meantime please save your work and make sure no one's on the computer in case power trip.

if you happen to drop by simlim tower area do ask the electrical gurus there.

 

[kongwee]

oh dear kongwee please re-read carefully you've completely misunderstood

I can only assume overcurrent protection. Also I don't expect a 1400w equipment can work properly on 1500w output t/f too.
Anyway. you should check your amp whether you could switch your amp to 240V,easily. Even it does opening up your amp.

Of cos you could try, Wall Socket->t/f->110Vamp. And Wall Socket-> 240V equipment. If you only have one wall socket, insert a multi socket. Also power the 110V chain first then 240V chain.

 

[iansoh]

1 power block has 4 sockets.

3 sockets are for 240V amps.

the last remaining socket is for my step-down transformer - which is currently causing the entire power block to shut off whenever switched on (even when not powering any 110V equipment).

 

[blueprintstudios]

this may sound stupid but by any chance you tried another power extension block and see if it happens the same? in case a faulty unit..

also try another wall socket.

 

[grarrgrarr]

it does seem like your power block is going into overcurrent protection. however a transformer in good working order should not draw excessive current especially when not loaded. i assume your transformer is new. in that case it could be poor workmanship / materials causing poor insulation in the windings of your transformer, reducing the resistance of your transformer causing a very high current draw even when not loaded.

you might want to try a different transformer to see if the problem is solved as my main suspect is a defective transformer. even if it seems to work it is probably on its way out already.

 

[kongwee]

Does the power block got over current protection?
Do you have to reset the power block?
If yes, your power block cannot accept the t/f due to over current protection.

But first unplug all 240V amp. and plugin the t/f only into the power block.
Switch on your power block and see whether it trip your power block.
If yes, the power block could not accept the t/f( due to initial high current).

Also you must check whether you plug the t/f(no amp attached) direct to wall socket to see it trip your house Main Circuit Breaker.
If yes, the t/f confirm faulty.