Want to learn about the different types of LED drivers? You've come to the right place. In this in-depth article, we'll break down the unique intricacies between the three main types of LED drivers:
- Constant current LED drivers
- Constant voltage LED drivers
- Constant power LED drivers
In the following paragraphs, you're going to learn which of these is best for you as we break down the use case for all three of these power supply styles. You'll also learn the purpose of LED drivers in general. And, towards the end, we'll point you in the right direction if you're on the hunt for efficient, reliable, and affordable power supplies - for any use. We've got a lot to cover, so let's dive in with the first question at hand. What are LED drivers in the first place, and why do you need one?
What is an LED Driver & Why do I Need One?
First things first - what does an LED driver do?
An LED driver is a power supply that regulates the voltage and current going to an LED. This is important because LEDs are very sensitive to too much or too little current and will burn out quickly if not given the proper amount of power. Drivers also protect your LEDs from things like power surges that can come through your electrical system.
Drivers are available in many different shapes and sizes. Some look like big black boxes, while others are small enough to fit on a circuit board. You can also find drivers that are meant to be installed in wet or damp locations. This is especially important for unique applications like indoor growing. These types of facilities rely on LED grow lights - and the power sources must be capable of withstanding humidity. but, LED drivers aren't just used in horticulture. You'll find these in your home, commercial buildings, medical facilities - you name it.
Most LEDs will come with a driver included, but there are also stand-alone drivers that can be used with any type or brand of LED. These are great for people who are looking to replace old, inefficient light fixtures with LEDs. In this case, you can just remove the old driver and install a new one that is compatible with your chosen LEDs.
Now that we know what an LED driver is and why they're important - we need to get another question out of the way: are there different types of LED drivers?
Are There Different Types of LED Drivers?
As you may already know from reading this far into our discussion, yes - there are different types of LED drivers out there. And while the different types of LED drivers do share some similarities, there are even more differences between them. And you need to be aware of these in order to pick the optimal type of LED driver for your unique needs.
So, without any further ado - let's get started breaking down the three types of drivers we mentioned earlier.
Constant Power vs Constant Current vs Constant Voltage LED Drivers: What's the Difference Between These Power Supplies?
The main difference between constant power, constant current, and constant voltage LED drivers has to do with how they regulate power. A constant current driver will maintain a steady flow of electricity, regardless of fluctuations in voltage. This is important because it helps to protect your LEDs from damage that can be caused by power surges. A constant voltage driver, on the other hand, will maintain a steady voltage level - regardless of fluctuations in current. This is important because it helps to keep your LEDs from flickering or dimming.
To really help you understand the differences between these power supplies, we're going to explain each one in detail below. Then, we'll help you make the right pick for your unique needs.
What is a Constant Voltage LED Driver?
A constant voltage power supply is one that outputs a set voltage - regardless of the load. This means that the voltage will stay the same, even if there is no load or a very high load. The main advantage of this type of power supply is that it's very simple to use. You just need to set the voltage and then connect your LEDs.
The downside of a constant voltage power supply is that it's not as efficient as other types. This is because the current will fluctuate based on the load. So, if you have a lot of LEDs connected, the current will be higher and more power will be wasted. But, if you have fewer LEDs connected, the current will be lower and less power will be used.
What is a Constant Current LED Driver?
A constant current power supply is one that outputs a set amount of current - regardless of the load. This means that the current will stay the same, even if there is no load or a very high load. The main advantage of this type of power supply is that it's more efficient than a constant voltage power supply. This is because the voltage will fluctuate based on the load. So, if you have a lot of LEDs connected, the voltage will be higher and less power will be wasted. But, if you have fewer LEDs connected, the voltage will be lower and more power will be used.
The downside of a constant current power supply is that it's not as simple to use as a constant voltage power supply. You need to set the current and then connect your LEDs.
What is a Constant Power LED Driver?
A constant power LED driver is one that outputs a set amount of power - regardless of the load. This means that the power will stay the same, even if there is no load or a very high load. The main advantage of this type of power supply is that it's more efficient than a constant voltage or constant current power supply. This is because the voltage and current will both fluctuate based on the load. So, if you have a lot of LEDs connected, the voltage and current will be higher and less power will be wasted. But, if you have fewer LEDs connected, the voltage and current will be lower and more power will be used.
The downside of a constant power LED driver is that it's not as simple to use as a constant voltage or constant current power supply. You need to set the power and then connect your LEDs.
So, Which LED Driver Should You Choose?
Now that you know the difference between constant power, constant current, and constant voltage LED drivers, it's time to make a decision. The best way to choose is to think about your specific needs. If you need a simple power supply that's easy to use, go with a constant voltage driver. If you need an efficient power supply that will save you money in the long run, go with a constant current driver. And if you need the most efficient power supply possible, go with a constant power driver. To take this a step further, we're going to break down some use cases for these three different types of LED drivers.
Use Cases for the Constant Voltage LED Driver
- If you're just starting out with LEDs and don't need anything too fancy, go with a constant voltage driver.
- If you have a small project that doesn't require a lot of power, go with a constant voltage driver.
- If you need an LED power supply that's easy to use, go with a constant voltage driver.
Use Cases for the Constant Current LED Driver
- If you're looking for an efficient power supply, go with a constant current driver.
- If you have a medium to large project that requires more power, go with a constant current driver.
- If you need an LED power supply that will save you money in the long run, go with a constant current driver.
Use Cases for the Constant Power LED Driver
- If you're looking for the most efficient power supply possible, go with a constant power driver.
- If you have a large project that requires a lot of power, go with a constant power driver.
- If you need an LED power supply that's more complex to use, go with a constant power driver.
We hope this guide has helped you pick the right type of LED driver for your unique needs. If not, though, you're probably wishing there was someone who you could just talk to and get a straight answer from. And fortunately for you, there is - right here at Bravo Electro!
Bravo Electro Has All Your LED Power Supply Needs Covered
Bravo Electro has covered you no matter the type of LED driver you choose. When you shop with us, you gain access to the best selection of LED driver power supplies online. We source our catalog from the top manufacturers in the industry, so you can trust that you're getting the quality you deserve. This is true of our constant current LED drivers, our constant voltage LED drivers, and everything else in our catalog for that matter. From AC DC power supplies to configurable power supplies, we've got everything you could ever need. Looking for specific voltages? We have 12v power supplies, 24v power supplies, and 48 power supplies, too.
We know that power supply sourcing can be complicated. That's why we're here to simplify it for you. Reach out to us and we'll guide you through the process to help you pick the right power supply for your unique needs. Got a custom project you need help with? We've got engineers on s staff ready to get the job done for you. With same-day delivery available, you can get started now and put this project in the rearview mirror!
Final Thoughts on the Constant Power vs Constant Current vs Constant Voltage Debate
That just about covers everything you need to know about constant power vs constant current vs constant voltage power supplies. At this point, you know the key differences among each style - and you know which is right for you. If not, just reach out - we'll talk you through it so you can s shop with confidence knowing you're getting exactly what you need the first time around. We look forward to working with you!