Best compact transformer for EZVIZ DB1C

Jamesj74

n3wb
Dec 7, 2024
6
3
United Kingdom
Sorry, this is probably a class 101 newbie question. I did search, but couldn’t find anything definitive. I’m trying to install a DB1C so that it operates a Byron DBW-23082 wired mechanical chime. My goal is to do so without need for any extra hardware visible next to the chime. I already figured out that the transformer in the chime which supplies 8 V AC isn’t enough to operate the doorbell camera. I purchased an uprated transformer from CPC which supplies 12 V AC at 3 VA and this does allow the doorbell camera to function but the doorbell camera doesn’t operate the chime. Yes, it’s all set up as a mechanical chime and I can use the camera with the app and all that good stuff. So I guess my first question is am I correct to assume that the transformer that I’ve got now isn’t supplying enough power for the camera to be able to operate the mechanical chime? I did notice if I take off the little power kit that it does operate the chime but it only does it a few times and then the camera goes red and I need to put that power kit back on for it to go back to blue. So my second question is: is there a transformer powerful enough to allow the DB1C to operate the mechanical chime and small enough to fit inside the mechanical chime case?

Here’s a 4 min YouTube video I made that shows what I’m seeing at the moment:



Test setup:

IMG_3454.jpeg
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: David L
We have a few Threads on this Doorbell and the previous version of these Hikvision Doorbells. My guess is your transformer you bought does not have enough amperage for your chime to work. For your Doorbell and your Chime to work at the same time you need additional amperage. Here is a video, yes it is our US transformers, but you will see kinda what I am talking about. I went from a 16V 10VA to a 16V 30VA for my transformer.



Here is the DB1C Thread:

And our Doorbell 101:

HTH
 
I figured I need more amps/power, but is there a powerful enough small transformer unit that can fit inside the existing chime casing? It’s a bit of a minefield trying to find the perfect transformer, so I was hoping someone in the UK had already found one.
 
  • Like
Reactions: David L
I figured I need more amps/power, but is there a powerful enough small transformer unit that can fit inside the existing chime casing? It’s a bit of a minefield trying to find the perfect transformer, so I was hoping someone in the UK had already found one.
Here in the US we have our transformers in a different location than the Chime. Either our attics or basements normally, sometimes in walls. So where our Doorbell is located, normally just two wires run towards the transformer, one to the transformer, the other split off to the Chime with the returning wire from the Chime to the transformer creating a loop configuration, See chart below...the power kit attaches to the chime to help regulate the voltage to the Chime when the doorbell button is pressed. So be sure at the Chime that the wires coming from the transformer connect to the wires on the power kit and then the power kit wires connect to the chime, not both connecting to the chime, the power kit needs to be in-between the chime and the transformer. Without the power kit, many people have experienced constant humming noise...

1733748769551.png

HTH
 
Here in the UK we usually have mains 220V AC feeding the transformer inside the chime box. I’m happy with all the necessary wiring. I just want to know if anyone has a recommendation for a transformer with enough beans to run the whole setup and still fit inside the existing chime box/casing. EZVIZ make it seem so simple when in truth: there’s a bit more to it. The fact that they only stipulate a voltage range with no mention of power requirements or volt amps. This chime was even on there “supported list”, but it’s not (only 8 volts and 1 amp).
 
  • Like
Reactions: David L
It’s become apparent there’s no easy way to hide a transformer that meets requirements for Voltage and power in a standard wired chime bell box. As such I’ve completed my installation as below. Everything now working.
 

Attachments

  • IMG_0161.jpeg
    IMG_0161.jpeg
    4 MB · Views: 4
  • IMG_3464.mov
    IMG_3464.mov
    20.7 MB
  • IMG_3465.png
    IMG_3465.png
    546.3 KB · Views: 4
PS I did consider putting the transformer in a cupboard next to the main electrical distribution box, but the bell circuit runs off the kitchen lighting circuit on a single feed, so not possible to remote the transformer.