Power solutions must be highly efficient, robust, very compact and cost effective. In lieu of a high-voltage AC power source preferred by incandescent, fluorescent, and HPS bulbs, LEDs generally use a much lower DC voltage source typically ranging from only 8 to 72 V, depending on the application and the LED configuration. However, most new designs will operate with inputs from 12 to 24 V DC, while some retrofit designs will use a 12 V AC input.

To ensure optimal performance and long operating life, LEDs require an effective drive circuit. These drive circuits must be capable of operating from a loosely regulated power rail, and also be both cost- and space-effective. In order to maintain their long operating life, it is imperative that an LED’s current and temperature limits are not exceeded.

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This article was published in the Sept/Oct 2009 issue of LEDs Magazine. To read the full version of this article, please visit our magazine page, where you can download FREE electronic PDF versions of all issues of LEDs Magazine.

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