LED drivers are the most bewildering part to determine when you have so many choices and variations in terms of LED technology. This guide will assist you to find out the difference between these drivers and their behaviors.
LEDs entail a flow of steady and persistent current every time, at an exactly required voltage. It helps LEDs to stay at a consistent temperature or else they’ll begin to malfunction due to the high intensity of temperature.
Most LED drivers are considered as constant current devices then why do the manufacturers offer constant voltage LED drivers as well? Let’s find out their difference.
Constant-current drivers
These types of drivers are designed to function on a constant current having nominated ranges of output voltages. They are usually specified in milli-amperes or amperes (A). These drivers fluctuate the voltage in an electric circuit, allowing the current to remain persistent throughout the system.
A higher current means a brighter LED, but it radically lowers its lifespan as a consequence. It may be the best driver for high-power LEDs but is expensive to use with much less utilization.
Constant-voltage drivers
These types of drivers are designed to function on a constant voltage having nominated ranges of output currents. They are usually specified in Volts (V). These drivers fluctuate the current in a circuit, allowing the voltage to remain persistent throughout the system. The purpose of these drivers is a single direct current with an output voltage. To operate correctly, LED lights require a specified amount of input voltage.
Factors to Consider
Some elementary factors to determine while choosing LED drivers with a constant voltage are as follows:
- Output Power (W) – This power is expressed in watts (W). For a longer life span of both driver and the LED, it is recommended to use a driver of slightly greater output power than the LED. Running at its full capacity may decrease its life.
- Output Voltage (V) – It is expressed in volts (V). It entails the same output as LEDs voltage needs. Each voltage of the LED is added up to get a total value.
- Dimming – There are many options to select for a dimming function requisition. It helps to control the intensity of power in LED lights.
- IP Rating (IP) – IP ratings determine the type and class of the drivers. That means for water/dust works, water/dustproof drivers are preferred and vice versa.
- Form factor – It helps you to determine the size of your driver. It needs to fit and suit the applied applications.
So, let’s find out some best applications of LED drivers.
Applications of LEDs
- LEDs that characteristically need an external driver contain downlights, Outdoor-rated lights, cove lights, panels, and downlights. Such types of LEDs are drastically used for roadway lighting and commercial purposes.
- LEDs for domestic use include the drivers them. It is because it eases the replacement of old incandescent bulbs or other CFL bulbs.
So why should we use a constant voltage driver?
One should use a constant voltage driver because :
- It is the most familiar technology for installation and design engineers due to its consistency of volts.
- It is cheaper than the constant current driver, especially for large-scale applications.
- The life span of LEDs is increased.
- Low Electricity costs.
