Learn how to select the right driver for your LED strip lighting. Follow our expert guide to ensure compatibility, efficiency, and optimal performance for your LED installations.
Voltage is the main characteristic that determines the brightness of luminescence in devices with incandescent lamps. In contrast, the primary indicator for LED lighting fixtures is current, a stable value designed to maintain the driver for the LED strip. This current source provides long-term and high-quality work of the lighting equipment. The device is powered from a household network of 220V, while the output voltage may be 3 V and up to several tens.
So, for 10 meters of 50 W LED strip, you should buy a 60-70 W driver. The current rating is selected according to the expected brightness of the luminescence. The value of the output voltage depends on the performance capabilities of the backlight. The protection class of the device is essential for the driver’s installation location.
Features and characteristics of LED strip drivers
In design terms, the most influential power supply is a block consisting of microcircuits, complete through pulse converters and elements to stabilize the current. The device is highly efficient and provides quality short-circuit protection.
When choosing an LED strip driver,
it would help if you considered its main characteristics:
The power at the device’s output should be 15-20% higher than the expected load. For example, for 10 meters of LED strip 50 W, a driver should be bought for 60-70 W.
The current rating is selected according to the expected brightness of the luminescence.
The value of the output voltage depends on the performance capabilities of the backlight.
The protection class of the device is essential for the driver’s installation location. In rooms with high humidity and outdoors, devices in a particular casing or moisture-proof coating are used.
Types of LED drivers and connection methods
In a global sense, there are two types of power supplies:
Linear models are called models in which the generator releases the current. It can deliver current with stable parameters, even when the input voltage is unstable. These drivers are simple in design and inexpensive but low efficiency (up to 80%).
Pulse devices operate on the principle of PWM (pulse width modulation). In this case, the current frequency remains constant, and the duration of pulses varies.
When choosing the right RGB driver for the LED strip, it is not enough to make the light work for a long time. You must also correctly install it. The power supply can be connected to the circuit in several ways:
A serial connection allows you to keep a constant current across the circuit. The glow of the diodes is even and bright. But if many crystals are connected to the circuit, you will need a potent driver.
If you connect in parallel, the power supply is the same, but each circuit’s current may differ. Therefore, the glow will not be the same brightness.
Two drivers are installed in series. This method is not often used because of the circuit’s current distribution complexity.
Before you buy a driver for LEDs, make a diagram of the backlighting organization. Determine the choice of LED tapes and other necessary equipment. Based on the results, which power source is preferred will be clear.
Is it possible to turn on the LED driver without any load?
Drivers without a load can not be switched on. If you are doubtful about this driver, include a constant resistor instead of the diode, which is the equivalent of the load.
What is the difference between the power supply for LED strips?
The driver is a power supply designed to provide LEDs with a given current. It doesn’t matter what they call this power supply. Power supplies are power supplies for LED strips at 12 or 24 volts; they can give out any current below the maximum.
How to connect a LED bulb?
Wiring diagram for a direct plug-in LED light bulb 220V
De-energize the lamp to avoid electric shock.
Remove the fluorescent bulbs.
Remove the starters, leave the ballast (or replace the starters with special ones for LED lamps).
Insert LED bulbs.
Turn on the power supply.
