LED Power Supply: Consider Five Factors Before Selecting -

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Contents hide

1 LED Power supply

2 Factors to consider when buying an LED power supply

2.1 Mode of operation

2.2 Output Voltage/Current

2.3 Input voltage/Current

2.4 IP Ratings

2.5 Efficiency and reliability

2.6 Warranties and support

3 Conclusion

3.1 Related posts:

LED Power supply

An LED power supply is similar to ballasts in fluorescent lamps, they provide LED lamps with the proper power required for them to function optimally. There primarily two kinds of LED drivers, constant current and constant voltage drivers. Some LED lamps have LED drivers integrated into them. Some others will require external drivers. An LED driver’s main purpose is to rectify higher voltage, alternating current to low voltage DC. It also cushions the LED against voltage or current fluctuations. There are numerous factors you should consider before selecting your LED power supply.

Factors to consider when buying an LED power supply

Mode of operation

There are LED lamps that require fixed output current and can operate over a range of output voltages. Some require constant voltage with a maximum output current. You, therefore, need to understand the mode of operation of your LED lamps before buying them a power supply.

Output Voltage/Current

If your LED lamps 12 volts to operate you will require a 12V driver. Ensure that you pick the driver that matches the voltage rating of your LED lamps. Also, ensure that the driver will meet the LED lamps’ current requirements in amps or milliamps accordingly.

Input voltage/Current

Ensure that the driver is compatible with the voltage supply of the area you intend to use the LED lamp so that it can step down to the right output voltage. In some regions, the output voltage is 120V while in other areas it is 277V. Check with your electrician to ensure that you understand the power supply of your area. There also some drivers that accept a wide range of input voltages, this could come in handy in case you are not sure of your supply voltage.

IP Ratings

Ingress Protection rating details the protection that an LED driver’s enclosure provides. The first number specifies the solid objects the enclosure can protect against. The second number specifies protection against water elements. Check the IP rating value of the LED driver against the IP rating chart to ensure that it will be ideal within the environment you intend to subject it to.

Efficiency and reliability

Just like any other electrical equipment, LED drivers are equally susceptible to wear and tear. Its wear and tear are driven by electrolyte loss in certain capacitors. Carefully evaluate your supplier’s capabilities in offering you a reliable driver with good useful life. Also, ensure that you the driver offer acceptable levels of efficiency which is typically between 80-85%. Some drivers that operate more LEDs at any given time can offer more efficiency.

Warranties and support

It is prudent that you seek out a supplier that offers you long-standing warranties so that should the drive fail or fail to offer you adequate useful life, you will be adequately indemnified.

Conclusion

If you can these 5 five factors into consideration when purchasing LED power supplies, you should be able to secure yourself power supplies that not only work well but also reliable and efficient.