thanks for the info. Because of were the power is I'm probably going to have a run up to 200' to the end. So I need to look at 8ga wire. I will look into the multi-tap transformer; that's a new to me.

Hey there splats,

It's always best to check with the manufacturer what they recommend. Generally, most manufacturer's recommend a (%) of the transformer's maximum capacity to promote longevity; a fully-loaded transformer is essentially like redlining a car every time you drive it. I know we recommend no more than 80% for ours; that is in the same ballpark as RG's suggestion above.

Length does indeed matter in low-voltage because the voltage dissipates over longer runs. Most residential lighting systems use 12-gauge (generally rated for uses up to 150') . Sizing transformers and determining cable gauges is typically a final step in the project after calculating wattage and distances. RG hit the nail on the head above as well; multi-tap transformers make designing and installing systems much easier and a volt-meter is handy to be certain your runs are all receiving the proper power.

I'd recommend following Dark Sky outdoor lighting guidelines for dark-sky friendly lighting to avoid light "pollution", illuminating areas unnecessarily, shining lights toward the sky, or into your windows or those of your neighbors.

I have been re-reading the sentence "hey there splats" and laughing for five minutes now. I need sleep.

VOLT's comment reminded me, if this is your first time DIYing a lighting system it wouldn't be a bad idea to contact them (or a similar consumer-friendly company) for help specifying components. Plus, getting everything in one place means as soon as the UPS guy drops those boxes on the porch, you can start playing.

If you can throw a few extra bucks at it, get bulbs in different wattages and beam spreads. The ability to fine tune the final lighting effect is the difference between a good lighting job and one that makes the neighbors drool.

Actually "Splats" was suppose to be something else; but I thought it was so funny I just left it.

Revolutionary Gardens and Volt have gave you some great advice. The only thing additionally I would say, you will not need 8 gauge wire. With a multi tap transformer you can do runs up to 400', depending on the watts needed at the end, and still have plenty of power for the lights to operate. The biggest wire I use since the era of LED is 10 gauge. You will want to invest in a volt meter to check how many volts you have at the end of the long run and every run.