Backing of the Transformer

The Transformer was essential to Westinghouse's AC electric system. The transformer essentially stepped electricity either up or down. This meant the transformer amplified the voltage when the voltage was stepped up and it reduced the voltage when the voltage was stepped down. This was very important as the AC electric system runs on very high voltage in order to efficiently send electricity over long distances. The transformers then step down the electricity before it enters houses and businesses. And in some cases the transformer steps up the electricity for intense machinery and equipment. Westinghouse backed the transformer for his electric system and even redesigned it and “in 1886 he installed the first multiple-voltage ac power system.” The same year, 20 multiple-voltage ac power systems were installed and were set running. The transformer enabled Westinghouse's AC system to work and provide consumers and businesses the power they needed and it enabled The Westinghouse Electric Company to efficiently distribute electricity at a low cost. This eventually was the reason Westinghouse won the War of the Currents.

sources:

http://www.memagazine.org/backissues/membersonly/october96/features/westingh/westingh.html

Empires of Light by Jill Jonnes