LED Driver
What is a LED driver and is it required?
LED drivers can be used for everything from industrial and commercial lighting to residential lighting and even garden lighting. A LED driver is an electrical device used to regulate the power of a LED or a string of LED lights. LED drivers provide constant power to an LED and its electrical properties as they may change and have different needs. Not only this, but LED drivers protect LED lights from voltage or current fluctuations.
Every LED light source does require a driver, but they are sometimes included instead of sold separately. Make sure to pay attention to the LED you buy to know what you need to purchase so you do not under-drive or overdrive your light. Learn More About LED Drivers Here!
Is an LED drive just an extra powering tool?
What is the difference between Internal and External Drivers?
- LED modules designed for household use usually contain internal drivers rather than separate, external drivers because they make replacing outdated lighting simpler. These include LED bulbs with standard screw-in or plug-in bases (E26 / E27 or GU24 / GU10 – see images below) or those that specify a line-voltage (120 volts) input.
- LEDs that typically require an external driver include cove lights, downlights, and tape lights, as well as certain fixtures, panels, and outdoor-rated lights. It’s simpler and cheaper to purchase a LED driver replacement than the LEDs. These bulbs are used for commercial, outdoor, or roadway lighting purposes.
What are the different types of drivers?
There are three types of LED drivers: constant-current, constant-voltage, and AC LED drivers.
- If one output voltage is specified, you need a constant-voltage driver.
- If there is a range of output voltages, like with a dimmable LED, you need a constant-current driver.
- If an AC voltage input is specified, you need an AC LED driver.
Do LED drivers need to be used with a ballast? Is there only one kind of LED driver?
LED drivers don't need to be used with a ballast, but instead they act as one. Every LED light fixture requires an LED driver power supply to power them. There are two different types of devices: internal drivers and external drivers. Internal drivers are normally found in household light bulbs. These are your standard incandescent and CFL light bulb replacements with screw-in or plug-in capabilities.
External drivers are normally used for commercial lighting purposes. This is anywhere from area lighting, to warehouse lighting, to street lighting. In most cases, it’s much cheaper to replace the external driver than to replace the entire LED light fixture. Learn more about LED strip lights. Learn More Here!