LED Drivers &
Power Supplies

An LED driver supplies the electrical output an LED product is designed to use. For the constant voltage LED strips featured here, it converts a compatible AC mains input into a regulated DC output such as 12V or 24V. It is an essential part of the system: ordinary low-voltage LED tape must not be connected directly to mains power. Choose the output type, voltage and capacity before choosing the physical size of the unit.

The terms are often used interchangeably when people search for LED strip power supplies. The specification matters more than the name. These LEDTech constant voltage drivers provide a DC output for compatible LED products. An older transformer intended for halogen lighting may deliver AC, require a minimum load or have unsuitable dimming behaviour. Check the output on the label rather than assuming a previous transformer will work.

Match the voltage printed on the LED strip or luminaire. A 12V strip needs a 12V constant voltage supply; a 24V strip needs a 24V supply. The same rule applies to 36V and 48V products. A driver with more available wattage does not change this requirement. If you are designing a new system, compare the strip’s permitted run length, light output and installation requirements before selecting its voltage.

Multiply the strip length by the manufacturer’s watts-per-metre figure, then add the loads of every run connected to that driver. Our planning calculator divides this total by 0.75 to follow the 75% loading guidance on our LED driver category page. For example, 5 metres at 14.4W per metre draws 72W and gives a 96W planning minimum; a suitable 100W driver is the next listed size. Check the individual datasheet for derating, ambient temperature and any minimum load.

A higher capacity constant voltage supply can be suitable when its voltage, output type, dimming method and load range match the lighting. Its wattage rating is the capacity available, rather than a fixed amount forced into the strip. However, oversizing does not solve a voltage mismatch, and dimmable models may have minimum loading requirements. Select a sensible capacity and check the operating conditions.

Yes, where the strips use the same required supply voltage and the total connected load remains within the driver’s recommended operating capacity. Each branch, connector and controller also needs an appropriate current rating. Multiple runs are normally planned as parallel branches rather than one overlong strip. Do not join the outputs of separate drivers unless the manufacturer expressly supports that arrangement. Ask our team to review a multi-run layout.

RGB, RGBW and tunable white strips usually need a compatible multi-channel controller as well as a suitable power supply. The controller adjusts the individual channels to produce colour or colour-temperature changes. A standard constant voltage supply can be used with a compatible low-voltage controller; a single-channel TRIAC driver does not provide independent colour control. Confirm voltage, channel count, total load and per-channel current together.

No. The driver and wall dimmer need compatible phase-cut operation, and the installation must stay within their stated load limits. Leading-edge and trailing-edge support, minimum load and the usable dimming range can differ by model. Check the exact driver datasheet and the dimmer manufacturer’s compatibility information. A standard non-dimmable driver should not be connected to a mains phase-cut dimmer.

IP20 drivers are intended for suitable dry, protected locations and have no rated water protection. IP67 denotes a dust-tight enclosure with protection against temporary immersion under the applicable test conditions. It is not permission for permanent submersion. The complete installation also depends on cable entries, joints, mounting position, drainage and the manufacturer’s instructions. A waterproof strip does not make the power supply or its connections waterproof.

It may be possible if the installation provides the clearance, ventilation, ambient temperature and access the manufacturer requires. A driver produces heat, even when the LEDs themselves are efficient. Do not bury it in insulation or seal it into a small space without checking its thermal requirements. Plan access for inspection and replacement, and have mains connections completed by a suitably qualified installer.

Possible causes include an overloaded supply, an incompatible dimmer, a poor connection, a controller limit or voltage drop along the cable or strip. An end-of-run brightness change often calls for a review of run length, cable size and feed positions. It does not automatically mean a larger driver is the answer. Switch off the system before inspection and share the strip specification, driver model, cable lengths and control details with our technical team.

Constant voltage drivers regulate a stated output voltage and are commonly used with compatible LED strips and modules. Constant current drivers regulate a stated current, usually expressed in milliamps, across a specified voltage range. Many individual LED luminaires use constant current supplies. The two types are not interchangeable: match the LED manufacturer’s requirements, including the current and voltage window when a constant current driver is needed.