For a system that requires a load to operate at 12 volts from a higher primary voltage, what configuration would the transformer take?

In this scenario, the requirement is to deliver a lower voltage (12 volts) from a higher primary voltage level. A transformer that performs this function is known as a step-down transformer.

A step-down transformer reduces the voltage while increasing the current proportionately to maintain the power balance, as defined by the equation P = V x I (where P is power, V is voltage, and I is current). In essence, the transformer steps down the voltage to the desired level—12 volts in this case—making it suitable for applications such as powering low-voltage devices or circuits.

Insulating configuration typically refers to transformers used to provide electrical isolation between circuits rather than altering voltage levels. Series configuration usually pertains to adding voltages together in a circuit rather than changing them through a transformer. A step-up configuration, on the other hand, would increase voltage, which is not applicable here since the goal is to decrease the primary voltage to a lower operational voltage. Therefore, the step-down configuration is the correct choice for operating a load at 12 volts from a higher voltage supply.