Can electronic dimmers be used on Buck/Boost Transformers ?

Issue:
Buck Boost Transformers are often used to power incandescent lights which must be dimmed

Product Line:
LV Transformers

Environment:
Applies to Buck Boost Transformers by SquareD/Schneider Electric

Cause:
The transformer winding presents a different type of load profile to the dimmer than an incandescent light does

Resolution:
Dimmers can be used to control Buck and Boost Transformers only if the dimmer circuit is of high enough quality to reproduce an AC sine wave properly at the output.  Also, electronic dimmers that develop any DC voltages at their output can cause the Transformer windings to overheat and burn out, which is a distinct possibility with some types of inexpensive dimmers

Released for: Schneider Electric USA