Projector issues

[ElectDesigner]

Hi Guys,

A new projector was installed at work, it seemed to work fine for a while, but has recently started to shut off. As per the projector technician the projectors onboard measurements logged a voltages between 183 to 197V, it is programmed to shut off if voltage falls below listed voltage.

The device manufacturer lists an operating voltage between 200-230V if I recall correctly. The unit is fed from a 208V/3ph panel via 30A,2P breaker.

My questions:
1.Is it common for voltage on a 208V system to drop consistently to the 180 range? Would faulty breaker/wiring cause this?

2. Are buck boost transformers typically installed when 230V rated equipment are installed on 208 v systems?

I'm planning on calling an electrician to measure voltage at the panel and at the device to see what the readings are like. I don't know if it's a case of voltage taking outside of operating range of if there an issue with the electrical system., it used to work just fine.

Has anyone had any similar experiences?

 

[Smart $]

Is there any other equipment powered by this circuit?

How far from service to this unit, wire wise?

The problem is voltage drop... but the question is what is causing the voltage drop, as it appears to be inconsistent and may be the result of more than one contributing factor.

Boost transformers are commonplace for 240V equipment on 208/120V nominal systems... but your equipment is rated to be powered by a nominal 208V circuit. A boost transformer should not be necessary.

 

[GoldDigger]

Hi Guys,

A new projector was installed at work, it seemed to work fine for a while, but has recently started to shut off. As per the projector technician the projectors onboard measurements logged a voltages between 183 to 197V, it is programmed to shut off if voltage falls below listed voltage.

The device manufacturer lists an operating voltage between 200-230V if I recall correctly. The unit is fed from a 208V/3ph panel via 30A,2P breaker.

My questions:
1.Is it common for voltage on a 208V system to drop consistently to the 180 range? Would faulty breaker/wiring cause this?

2. Are buck boost transformers typically installed when 230V rated equipment are installed on 208 v systems?

I'm planning on calling an electrician to measure voltage at the panel and at the device to see what the readings are like. I don't know if it's a case of voltage taking outside of operating range of if there an issue with the electrical system., it used to work just fine.

Has anyone had any similar experiences?

If it used to work and now it does not, there are few possibilities:

1. The line voltage has decreased as a result of POCO or load changes in the area. A boost transformer might help.
2. The voltage drop in the wiring has increased. This would indicate a failing connection or other problem that will also cause local heating and be dangerous. Check voltage at the panel and compare it to voltage at the projector.
3. The projector is failing in a way that causes it to draw more current and this has increased the voltage drop.

It is true that some equipment that is rated for 200-230V may not work reliably on a nominal 208V system. But the "normal" line voltage of a single phase system in the US would be 240, not 230, and could go higher. Do you think that could be a problem also?
Modern electronic equipment designed for the world market often includes a DC power supply that can work on any input from 100V nominal (Japan) to 240V nominal (US and some others without even changing any switches.

 

[mgookin]

Hi Guys,

A new projector was installed at work, it seemed to work fine for a while, but has recently started to shut off. As per the projector technician the projectors onboard measurements logged a voltages between 183 to 197V, it is programmed to shut off if voltage falls below listed voltage.

The device manufacturer lists an operating voltage between 200-230V if I recall correctly. The unit is fed from a 208V/3ph panel via 30A,2P breaker.

...

That all sounds pretty strange. I'd first confirm the operating specs of the equipment and 2nd I'd confirm the design specs of this voltage monitor design. To have something rated 208V and have it drop out at 200V or 197V makes no sense, nor the 183V. As easy as it is these days to make a power supply that runs on multiple voltages it does not seem reasonable that this projector is designed as described.

A voltage data logger at the projector outlet would be worthwhile while you're confirming your beliefs with the manufacturer.