Are you looking for the right LED power supplies? If so, then you would want the units which are reliable, trustworthy and tailored according to your needs. In this guide, we will help you find a suitable power supply for your LEDs. Moreover, we will also cover the significance of choosing the right one.
Choosing the right LED supply is crucial since it ensures a seamless LED experience. Going for a poor supply can hinder your LED’s performance and may cause internal damage. Therefore, you should always go for the reliable option. Without further ado, let’s find out different power supplies and assist you in selecting the right one.
Why Are LED Power Supplies Necessary?
LED power supplies provide a stable voltage and current to the LEDs. Usually, the Alternating Current (AC) is given to the houses with the electric cable but the LEDs require Direct Current (DC). For example, 12V LED strip light requires 12V voltage (as the name suggests), however, the voltage supplied to the houses is at 120 volts. Although it varies from country to country, the voltage is typically 10 to 20 times higher than necessary.
The LEDs require a stable and consistent electric current. A constant voltage power supply helps lower the high voltage and regulates the current provided to the LED units. It is the switching mode power supply that converts AC to DC. It also ensures that they get the correct volts and amperes to operate in a safe range.
Otherwise, if you directly connect the LEDs to the power outlet, the high electrical input will damage them internally. So, using reliable power supplies or led drivers is mandatory.
Since you know why you must install them, let’s discuss what different types are:
How many types of LED Power Supplies?
An LED power supply comes in various shapes and sizes. Some differ in functionality, while some have a diverse range of wattage. Below are the five most common types that are suitable for any compatible LED:
● Dimmable
Dimmable power supplies have a dimmer to control the LEDs’ electric flow. The dimmer is usually a potentiometer that limits the current. Hence, a lower current makes the light-emitting diodes (LEDs) less bright. The dimmable power supply is often more expensive than others.
● Non-Dimmable
Non-dimmable power supplies don’t have a built-in mechanism to control the voltage or current to dim the diodes. You can attach a dimmer separately, but it will cost you extra. The best thing about these LED supplies is that they are cheaper and more affordable.
The non-dimming supplies are a great option if you don’t want to spend a lot of money. These supplies usually last longer than their dimmable counterparts. Non-dimmable power supplies are typically found in three types, based on the range they provide. Below they are:
● Low-Range
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A low-range ac dc power supply offers a small range of wattage, mostly less than 100W. They are usually suitable when you know the total wattage of the LED appliances and are confident that it won’t fluctuate much. They are great for indoor usage, where you can commonly connect 12V LED strip lights.
For instance, the 18W-75W Ultra LED power supply is a great low-range choice. It has an IP44 rating with a 12V DC output. Moreover, it also has protection against any overload such as overvoltage and overcurrent. It makes these supplies an ideal fit for your LEDs.
● Medium-Range
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The medium-range supplies can handle more variety in watts. The window of diversity can be more than 100W. So, you can use them where there is a change of any addition is connected lights. They can also survive from any sudden spike in electric supply. If you like to get a power supply from this category, we have a recommendation.
The 40W-360W Slim power supply can probably be something you seek. Its output voltage is suitable for both 12V and 24V LEDs. The range of 360W makes it awesome for indoor use and LED rope lightings.
● Large-Range
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A large-range ac dc power supply provides an immense range in watts, making it suitable for various conditions. They can provide a window up to 250W or more. And many are reliable enough that they can withstand any electrical bump.
Just like 6W-300W Waterproof LED power supply. It is among the most reliable power supplies due to its IP67 ratings. The all-aluminum case makes it waterproof and dustproof. So, it can be an optimum pick for any outdoor LED lighting, LED Light strip, LE
Select According to IP Ratings
IP ratings tell how secure a power supply is, as they are provided after rigorous testing. Below ratings are commonly found in LED supply units:
● IP20
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IP20 is the lowest rating which indicates almost no protection. So, you better use them for indoor purposes only and try to cover them from dust. They may be delicate to dust and water, but these power supplies are still great in providing value. For example, 12W-600W Metal case SMPS Power Supply.
The switching mode power supply (SMPS) provides a huge wattage range. It can hold numerous LED lightings and gives consistent power to them. These SMPS have IP20 ratings, so you need to use them indoors with some covering.
● IP44 & IP53
The IP44 and IP53 are better than IP20 as both provide greater protection against dust and little water. The IP44 has protection against more than 1mm thicker solid particles. It means objects thicker than 1mm can’t get inside the casing and harm the supply. Also, it can resist water splashes.
The IP53 is better in solids protection, as it is dust resistant. But a few particles can penetrate inside. At the same time, it is weaker against water and can resist only sprays. So, if some waterdrops get inside, they may damage the equipment. They are good for LED lights in the bathroom, city swimming pool
● IP67
IP67 is the strongest protection you can get. These units are most suitable for any outdoor usage. The closed casing doesn’t allow any dust particles to get inside. Also, it can resist water immersion up to 1m for 30 minutes. In simple words, they are waterproof. They are good for outdoor use, like swimming pool, garden, LED lighting project.
Final Thoughts
Getting LED power supplies can be intimidating, especially when you don’t know which type you should buy. Installing the wrong option can cause electrical complications in your LED.
We hope that this guide helps you make the right decision. You can also check out our recommended supplies to ensure the best performance.
If you search for the constant voltage power supply or constant current LED driver, please know your input voltage range, what would you like to connect, LED strips or LED ropes, LED modules or LED displays which it decides the output voltage to 12v, 24v or 5v. JHY power would be a good source for LED power supplies from China. Contact them for more power supply specifications and service. Free indoor and outdoor samples are available.
