The Solatel PWX-1 Power Expander lets you control more devices without tripping circuit breakers. A typical plug-in controller, such as Solatel's Plant Pro, is limited in the current that can be drawn from it because of the 15 Amp rating of the typical 120 VAC outlet. This allows control of only a single 1000 Watt lamp. Adding a PWX-1 allows control of an additional 1000 W lamp or two 600 W lamps or any other combination of devices that draw no more than 15 Amps total. The PWX-1 can be used with pumps, fans, or other devices. Multiple PWX-1's can be used to control a large number of devices.
The PWX-1 has two cords and two outlets. The Power Cord provides current to both of the PWX-1 Outlets. The Power Cord is usually plugged into a wall outlet that is not on the same circuit breaker as the controller. The Trigger Cord provides the control signal which switches the Outlets on or off. The Trigger Cord draws little current and can therefore be connected to a controller along with other devices being controlled without tripping a circuit breaker. The Outlets are on only when there is 120VAC on both the Power Cord and the Trigger Cord. If only one cord has 120VAC, then both Outlets are off.
Extension cords on the Power Cord should be rated for the current needed by the devices plugged into the PWX-1 Outlets. The total current drawn from the PWX-1 Outlets combined is 15 Amps maximum. Typically, an extension cord, power strip, or outlet tap will be plugged into the controller's outlet. This allows connection of the Trigger Cord in addition to any devices being controlled that are within the current capacity of the controller. This extension cord or equivalent should be rated for the total current drawn by all devices plugged into it. The Trigger Cord draws 0.04 Amps maximum. If only Trigger Cords are plugged into an extension cord, then a standard 18 AWG (or better) cord will do.
