An isolation transformer is a device used to transfer electrical power from the mains (source of non isolated power) to some equipment or device while isolating the powered device from the power source, this is for safety reasons.
Isolation transformers work in the same way as other types of transformers. The isolation transformer is made of two electromagnets coils that are wound around each other in order to allow the primary coil to induce a current in the secondary coil. An isolation transformer will have primary and secondary coils that are wound the same ratio 1:1 in order to keep the same voltage at the input and output.
The isolation transformer insures safety against electrical shock and electrical hazardous during electronics devices troubleshooting. It can be used also for surge protection, noise isolation, galvanic isolation and coupling signals between different circuit stages.
Simple isolation transformer can be fabricated and built by connecting 2 similar specification transformers as back to back, but the ideal isolation transformer is made with spatial isolation material between the primary and secondary and should withstanding high voltage within the windings.
As the oscilloscope circuit ground is connected to the device casing, it is advisable for protection of both the device under test and the oscilloscope to power the device under test using the isolation transformer and power the oscilloscope directly from the mains that’s because the oscilloscope require the ground connection to be connected to insure the correct function and safety.
In this demonstration few concepts where covered regarding isolation transformer:
Intro isolation transformer
What is isolation transformer?
How does a transformer work?
Transformer basics
Transformer working principles
Build and construct an isolation transformer
What are the benefits of isolation transformer
Isolation transformer for safety
The correct practice how to use oscilloscope in non isolated power supply
Using oscilloscope with isolation transformer
The electrical hazardous
The actual potential deference between the transformer outputs and earth or ground
Electric shock prevention
Benefits of isolation transformer
Working with high voltage
