LED Power Supply
What is an LED Power Supply?
An LED power supply, also known as an LED driver or LED transformer, is the essential heart of any LED lighting system. Its primary job is to convert high-voltage Alternating Current (AC) from your wall outlet (e.g., 100-240V AC) into the low-voltage Direct Current (DC) that LEDs need to function, typically 5V, 12V, 24V, or 48V.
It is very important to choose a high quality and properly matched power supply. It ensures that your led strips will shine with the highest brightness and stable performance and also protects them against power surges and increases their life span significantly. A poor quality power supply can cause flickering, overheating and premature LED failure.
Check out more: LED Driver Power Supply Parameters Explain
Product Categories & Selection Guide
- Constant Voltage Power Supply: used for LED strips (5V / 12V / 24V / 48V)
- Constant Current Driver: used for LED modules, downlights, street lights
- Smart Dimmable: Supports 0-10V/DALI/PWM protocols for smart lighting systems.
Key Selection Parameters
- Power Matching: The power supply should be 1.2 to 1.5 times the total load.
- Voltage Range: Make sure the output range is the same as the fixture’s input voltage.
- Environment: Take into account temperature, humidity and IP rating (IP67 for outdoor use).
More details: Constant Voltage Vs Constant Current LED Driver
LED Power Supply Series Products
How to Select the Correct LED Power Supply
Step 1: Calculate Total Power (Wattage)
- Total Power (W) = Power per metre (W/m) x Total length (m)
- Power supply rated wattage ≥ total power x 1.2 (20% safety margin).That means the power supply never runs at full load. It runs cooler and lasts longer.
Further details: How to Calculate the LED Power Supply for LED Strip
Step 2: Match Correct Voltage
- The power supply has to have the same output voltage as the input voltage of the LED strip. (e.g. a 24V power supply is only for 24V strip).
Step 3: Choose the Right Waterproof Rating
| IP Rating | Protection Level | Best Application |
|---|---|---|
| IP20 | Non-waterproof. | Indoor, dry locations. |
| IP65 | Dust-proof. Protected against water jets from any direction. | Indoor damp/humid areas, or sheltered outdoor areas. |
| IP67 | Dust-proof. Can be temporarily immersed in water (up to 1m). | Outdoor or for signage and fountains. |
Step 4: Select the dimming method
- TRIAC (leading edge): It can be used in conjunction with most common household dimmer switches. Easy to install for a residential job.
- 0/1-10V (Analogue): Common in commercial lighting. Separate control wire for very smooth and reliable dimming from 0 to 100%.
- DALI: A digital protocol for advanced, addressable lighting control. It supports personalized grouping, scene setting and program control for intelligent buildings.
Learn more information: What LED Driver Do I Need for LED Strip Lights?