Constant Current vs. Constant Voltage LED Drivers: Choose the LED Light Driving Solution That’s Best for You
Constant current and constant voltage are two common LED driver solutions. This article will give you a detailed introduction to the difference between constant current and constant voltage LED drivers and how to choose the most suitable driver solution for your LED light strip.
Constant current and constant voltage are two different LED driving methods. They are different in power supply method, performance characteristics and applicable scenarios. Here is a detailed comparison of constant current and constant voltage LED drivers:
Constant current LED driver:
Constant current LED driver (Constant Current) refers to maintaining a constant current output when driving LED lights. This driving method is suitable for applications that require precise control of LED current to ensure that each LED lamp can operate with the same current. Constant current drivers also have the following features:
For LED lights connected in series, it can ensure that each LED light receives the same current and ensure the uniformity of light brightness.
It is suitable for driving multiple LED lights and can provide stable current output to avoid the impact of current fluctuations on LED lights.
External resistors are usually required to regulate the constant current output.
Constant current power supply
Constant voltage LED driver:
Constant voltage LED driver (Constant Voltage) refers to maintaining a constant voltage output when driving LED lights. This driving method is suitable for applications that require precise control of LED voltage. Features of constant voltage drivers include:
It is suitable for LED lights that require constant voltage power supply to ensure that each LED light operates within the set voltage range.
For LED lights connected in parallel, each LED light can work independently according to its current characteristics and will not be affected by other LED lights.
Usually no external resistor is required and a stable voltage output is provided directly.
Constant voltage power supply
How to choose a constant current or constant voltage driver?
Choosing a constant current or constant voltage LED driver depends on the electrical characteristics of the LED lamp and the application requirements. Here are some suggestions for choosing the right drive:
If your LED lights require precise current control and you need to drive multiple LED lights connected in series, a constant current driver is a better choice.
If your LED lights require precise voltage control and need to drive multiple LED lights connected in parallel, a constant voltage driver is a more suitable solution.
If you are not sure which driver method you should choose, it is recommended to choose the appropriate driver based on the technical specifications of the LED light and the manufacturer's recommendations.
Constant current and constant voltage are two common LED driver solutions. They are different in power supply methods, applicable scenarios and performance characteristics. Choosing the right driver solution for your LED lamp requires considering the LED lamp's electrical characteristics, application requirements, and manufacturer's recommendations. Choosing the appropriate driver according to the specific situation can ensure the stability and performance of the LED light.
