Autotransformer

An Autotransformer (sometimes called autostep down transformer ) ^[1] is a transformer which has only one winding . The " auto " ( Greek for "self") prefix refers to the single coil acting on itself and not to any kind of automatic mechanism . The winding acts as both primary winding and secondary winding in a normal transformer. Since part of the winding does "double duty", autotransformers have the advantages of often being smaller, lighter, ^[2] and cheaper than typical dual-winding transformers. The disadvantage of an autotransformer include not providing electrical isolation between the primary winding and the secondary winding . ^[3] There is also a higher possibility of short circuits due to low impedance . ^[3]

Usage [ change | change source ]

Autotransformers are used in power transmission , power distribution , audio , rail transport , etc. Autotransformers are often used to step up (increase) or step down (decrease) voltages in the 110?120 V range and in the 220?240 V range.

References [ change | change source ]

↑ Paul Horowitz and Winfield Hill, The Art of Electronics Second Edition , Cambridge University Press, Cambridge MA, 1989, ISBN 0-521-37095-7 , page 58
↑ John Winders, Power Transformers: Principles and Applications (New York; Basel: Marcel Dekker, Inc., 2002), p. 132
↑ ^3.0 ^3.1 Smarajit Ghosh, Electrical Machines , Second Edition (Delhi: Pearson, 2012), p. 101

Other websites [ change | change source ]

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[1] Paul Horowitz and Winfield Hill, The Art of Electronics Second Edition , Cambridge University Press, Cambridge MA, 1989, ISBN 0-521-37095-7 , page 58

[2] John Winders, Power Transformers: Principles and Applications (New York; Basel: Marcel Dekker, Inc., 2002), p. 132

[Ghosh101-3] 3.0 ^3.1 Smarajit Ghosh, Electrical Machines , Second Edition (Delhi: Pearson, 2012), p. 101

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