Core and Coil Neon Transformers

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Core and coil neon transformers are rugged, reliable, and time-tested power supplies for neon lighting. Widely adopted in the early 20th century following the introduction of neon signs, they quickly became the industry standard and remain trusted today for their durability, compact size, and ability to power long tube runs.

Core and Coil Neon Transformers | 3,500V–7,500V Models | WCCD USA

More about Core and Coil Neon Transformers

Commonly used in neon signs, clocks, custom lighting, ozone machines, and specialized equipment, core and coil transformers deliver stable high-voltage output at an economical cost. Their simple copper-winding design minimizes failure points, making them more dependable than electronic transformers, which rely on complex circuitry.

Core and coil transformers are also the best choice for neon animation and dimming. They handle flashing with ease and are fully compatible with external dimmers, unlike electronic alternatives.

For over 40 years, West Coast Custom Designs LLC has supplied high-quality core and coil neon transformers. We stock a wide selection for fast, same-day shipping, and our team is ready to help you choose the right model for your application.

Resource Center

Our core-and-coil Resource Center provides helpful tips on proper use and wiring. If you have questions, feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help.

The two Primary 110vt Input wires are not neutral or hot specific. Either wire can be hooked up to the hot wire and the other wire connected to the neutral wire (or vice-versa).

How to Wire Up a Core and Coil Neon Transformer.
How to Wire Up a Core and Coil Neon Transformer.
How to Wire Up a Core and Coil Neon Transformer.
How to Wire Up a Core and Coil Neon Transformer.
How to Wire Up a Core and Coil Neon Transformer.
How to Wire Up a Core and Coil Neon Transformer.
How to wire up a neon sign neon transformer diagram.
How to wire up a neon sign neon transformer diagram.
How to limit the high voltage wire when wiring up a neon sign.
How to limit the high voltage wire when wiring up a neon sign.
Proper way to wire up a neon sign diagram.
Proper way to wire up a neon sign diagram.

The top photo shows a vintage animated Miller High Life neon beer sign. Before the 1990s, when companies, particularly breweries, commissioned animated neon signs, they were typically built with custom-engineered transformer assemblies designed specifically for the sign’s animation sequence.

The bottom photo shows the transformer housing with its cover removed. Inside are two tar-encapsulated transformer core-and-coil assemblies, one mounted at each end of the enclosure. Positioned between them is a mechanical flasher unit that controls the sign’s animation by alternating the illuminated neon sections. The entire electrical system was integrated into a single, compact package, resulting in a clean and reliable design.

We frequently receive calls from sign owners whose animated neon signs have stopped working due to a failed transformer, flasher, or both. Unfortunately, these transformer assemblies were not off-the-shelf products. They were custom-designed and manufactured specifically for each sign, making direct replacements difficult to find today.

The good news is that we can help. We specialize in reproducing transformer systems and animation controls to get these classic signs operating again. In many cases, restoring an animated neon sign is well worth the investment, as vintage signs often have significant collectible and monetary value.

Contact us to discuss your sign and learn what restoration options are available. As an added feature, we often design our replacement animation units with two selectable animation modes. One mode replicates the original factory animation sequence, while the second offers a custom-programmed display, allowing owners to enjoy both the authentic look and a unique alternative.

An old flashing beer sign replacement neon transformers and flasher.