Transducers and transformers
Transformers and transducers are two ways of managing and monitoring electrical energy, often used interchangeably, although they are different.
[edit] Transformer
A transformer might be used to step down or reduce a current to a more usable level, particularly if an electric current is too powerful for a specific piece of equipment or where the primary current is being measured on the basis of Faraday's Law of induction. Transformers work with two sets of coils, one which take in the higher input current and the other that outputs the lower current that is of stepped down by a certain ratio to make it useable.
[edit] Transducer
A transducer, converts electrical energy into other types of energy and is used in applications such as microphones, car horns, and photoelectric cells. Current transducers, in particular, convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) and are used for example in control systems that monitor electricity usage.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Embedding AI tools into architectural education
Beyond the render: LMU share how student led research is shaping the future of visualisation workflows.
Why document control still fails UK construction projects
A Chartered Quantity Surveyor explains what needs to change and how.
New planning reforms and Warm Homes Bill
Take centre stage at UK Construction Week London.
A brief run down of changes intentions from April in an onwards.
Reslating an ancient water mill
A rare opportunity to record, study and repair early vernacular roofs.
CIOB Apprentice of the Year 2025/26
Construction apprentice from Lincoln Mia Owen wins this years title.
Insulation solutions with less waste for a circular economy
Rob Firman, Technical and Specification Manager, Polyfoam XPS explains.
Recycled waste plastic in construction
Hierarchy, prevention to disposal, plastic types and approaches.
UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard V1 published
Free-to-access technical standard to enable robust proof of a decarbonising built environment.
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Why talking about prostate cancer matters in construction.
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch up for free, subscribe and share with your network.
The Association of Consultant Architects recap
A reintroduction and recap of ACA President; Patrick Inglis' Autumn update.
The Home Energy Model and its wrappers
From SAP to HEM, EPC for MEES and FHS assessment wrappers.
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.