LW12 hot and smelly

Post by **dadimple** » Mon Nov 17, 2008 12:38 pm

I've just installed several LW12 dimmer modules. They all become hot when dimmed and produce a vague smell of burned electronics. Not surprising this worries me a bit...
Worst case is the module connected to two transformers. One connected to 100 watt of halogen light, the other one to 60Watt halogen light. 160 Watt in total, well within the power rating of the unit. Nevertheless the LW12 is so hot after some time it feels as if it can easily burn my fingers.

I want to ask if somebody has the same experience and if this is normal. Do these units have a high temperature failsafe? I hope so, because these units are serial regulators it is
not likely the mains fuses will blow in case of serious electronic problems.

Thanks!

Post by **Bwired** » Mon Nov 17, 2008 5:45 pm

Long time ago since I used Marmitek devices and some off them got really hot and turned brown. CM11 controller as well and crashed several times.

Post by **dadimple** » Mon Nov 17, 2008 7:05 pm

All Right, so I am not the only one burning my fingers:) But has anyone here experience that tells this heat up can cause fire or damage to the LW12?? I am using a CM15 by the way and it stays cool.

Post by **Bwired** » Mon Nov 17, 2008 7:19 pm

The CM15 is a rather new product so they handled the heat problem!
No reports of severe burnouts on other Marmitek modules, but I agree it's not a good feeling that the modules are getting very hot!
One of the reasons I stopped years with marmitek actors and dimmers.

Post by **b_weijenberg** » Mon Nov 17, 2008 7:27 pm

Not all halogene transformers can be dimmed!