Hello there. I am about to use a Universal Motor(a Mototr that can both operate in an AD or DC supply). However i am quite confused by its rating. It is rated at 120 Volts AC. But my supply or source is DC since i am going to use it outdoors. My question is:
Is it safe to use a supply of 120dc?
If not which of these supply can i use?(all in dc)

12 0r 48 volts?
what would be the ideal dc source of it?
will it be 120/sqrt of 2 v dc?

thanks,

There should be a voltage range in the nameplate on the enclosure of the motor or in the manual.

Normally this voltage range is same for AC or DC.For example,24-240,you can applied 24dc or ac,240 dc or ac.Higher voltage applied,more power the motor can output.So you can apply 24dc...48dc...50dc...100dc......to the motor,it depends on your appliance!!
But DO NOT exceed the rated voltage range!!!!

There is a frequency requirement for ac supply,for example 60HZ!!

when applied same voltage to this kind of motor,dc is more effective than ac!!

[This message has been edited by peterpang (edited 01-22-2005).]

No Way!.
splitzapper,
Where are you getting a 120VDC supply from?.
Using a lower than design voltage on a motor will always end in tears, as does a higher voltage.
Personally I'd stick with the AC mains and protect it with a GFCI, if the appliance is going to be used outside.
By the way, what sort of appliance is it?.