When choosing an LED driver, it is important to take into account not only the voltage of the light, but also the dimming mode, the need for moisture protection and the input power of the LEDs to be connected. DC TRIAC dimming is one of the most common types of dimming, and changing the driver can often get an old light working again. "At LedStore, we recommend choosing a transformer that is at least 10-15% more powerful than the input power of the lights, so that it is not overloaded and has a long service life," advises Janne Halttu.
TRIAC dimming technology for LEDs - dimming truly reduces power consumption
TRIAC dimming, also known as phase-cut / leading edge / trailing edge dimming, is a widely used method of controlling the intensity of LED lights. A long-established dimming technique that rapidly cuts the sine wave at either the leading or trailing edge of the wave. TRIAC dimmable LED power supply is marked leading or trailing edge. The dimmer must operate on the same cycle, otherwise the LED light will not dim or will flash/ buzz. TRIAC is compatible with most LED lights and dimmable LED power supplies, making it a popular choice for both new and old applications.
The advantage is dimming on the primary or mains side, so that dimming genuinely reduces the amount of current consumed by the light. LedStore imports and sells a wide range of TRIAC transformers, with the smallest power supply being 24 VDC 10 W and the largest being 24 VDC 600 W.
TRIAC dimming with LED strips
Led strip solutions commonly use 24 VDC TRIAC drivers, so they can be easily combined with conventional dimmers. The total output power of the Led strip determines the minimum size of drivers that must be used. For DC voltage transformers, there is no harm in choosing a transformer with a higher total power requirement, as the strip only draws the amount of current it needs.
Some LED strips require a lower voltage, which is why there are some 12 VDC power supplies available. A 12VDC strip cannot be used with 24VDC as it will break very quickly. Other voltages (36V) and standard current-controlled (mA) adjustable power supplies are also part of the standard range.
LedStore lights are originally designed for TRIAC dimming, so spots, panels, tracks, and ceiling lights are already available online with luminaire-specific transformers.
When is TRIAC not an appropriate dimming technology?
There are some limitations to TRIAC dimming. One of the most common problems is that in some cases it can cause flickering in the light. Flicker can be caused by the phase separation method used in TRIAC dimming, which can cause uneven or pulsating light output for LEDs that are not TRIAC-compatible. In addition, TRIAC dimming can in some cases also cause changes in light colour, as the phase angle at which the AC voltage is applied can affect the colour temperature of LED lights.
At LedStore, we have worked hard to find the most compatible dimmers and lights. You can find the dimming test results on our website after the dimming options presentation at the bottom of the page.
Halogen replacement bulbs frames and 12V TRIAC drivers
In addition to 12 V LED strips, 12 V TRIAC drivers are suitable for MR16 / GU 5.3 halogen bulbs. When replacing halogens with LED bulbs, the driver is typically upgraded to a lower wattage. If your halogen frames are on their way out, you'll also find plenty of frame options in LedStore's selection to easily update the look of your lighting. LedStore's halogen bulbs are of the highest quality in terms of colour rendering, just like our other lights.
See also other articles on TRIAC dimming, such as this one: TRIAC dimming
Welcome to Lamp Shop Led Store to learn more about TRIAC dimming and design the right lighting with dimmers for your home. We offer a wide range of services for consumers, retailers and businesses, both online, by e-mail, telephone and in our shop, where our entire range is on display. Our address is Mesikukantie 16, 01300 Vantaa (Koivuhaka). You can contact us by phone 045 251 4510, and by e-mail myynti@ledstore.fi. LedStore is an LED store serving the whole nation since 2010.
