A power supply typically converts power from a source to the correct format required. This can often mean converting high voltage alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC). Since LED lights operate using a lower voltage than other lighting, they require a power supply to regulate the current directed to the light. LED drivers, which function as a type of power supply, protect LED lighting from fluctuations in voltage or current.
All LED lighting requires either an internal or external driver. Internal drivers, often found in LED lamps, or light bulbs, come already equipped. External drivers often see use with commercial lighting fixtures. It's often much easier and cheaper switching power supplies than it is to replace the entire fixture.
You can find two main types of external LED drivers: constant current and constant voltage.
Dimmable power supplies control the LED's dimming capability. To dim, they may adjust the current flow or use pulse-width modulation (PWM), which rapidly turns the LED on and off at a speed too fast for the human eye to register. Instead, the light appears as a constant flow.
LEDVANCE Sylvania offers a wide variety of LED power supplies, including indoor and outdoor as well as options suitable for industrial areas.
Their options include the OPTOTRONIC programmable constant current outdoor dimmable LED power supplies, like this 180W Optotronic outdoor LED power supply, whose programming doesn't require powering up or connecting the power supply to AC line voltage. They also offer OEM programmability with 1mA resolution designed to maximize performance and match LED load, and dimming down to 10 percent using 0-10V dimmers.
They also provide the 85W LED Power Supply which features specification grade dimming to true 1 percent or 10 percent on 0-10V dimmers.
Their constant voltage options include the 96W LED Power Supply, which offers a wide 120V-277VAC input range for select models. These electronically stabilized options are protected against open circuit, short circuit,overload and overheating conditions.
Sylvania also offers additional accessories, such as:
A LED driver functions as a self-contained power supply, responsible for controlling and delivering the necessary electrical power required by an LED or group of LEDs. Because its primary role is to ensure the lights receive the correct voltage, it can be used as a power source and as a safeguard from potential damage caused by overvoltage or excessive current. Moreover, LED drivers play a major role in maintaining excessive brightness and controlling operating efficiency for the LEDs, ultimately increasing their lifespan and performance. LED Drivers are crafted specifically to operate as power suppliers for electrical operation. LED drivers offer up higher voltage currents and more efficient voltage control than traditional power supply options.
The versatility of universal voltage allows electronic devices, chargers, or power supplies to operate with a broad range of input voltages. It ensures safety and ease of use, as the device can function properly within various electrical environments worldwide. LED drivers with universal voltage capabilities can automatically adjust to the local voltage power of the power grid in different regions. This grants LEDs the chance to function properly without the need for voltage converters, adapters and other external devices.
The main purpose of universal voltage is to make it easier for global usage of compatible devices without having to adopt external devices such as adapters or voltage converters. The way in which universal voltage works is by incorporating a power supply or charger that can accept a wide range of input voltages.