Constant Current vs. Constant Voltage

Constant Current vs. Constant Voltage

It is possible that, if you have been buying LED lights, you have found the terms of constant current and constant voltage. It is also very possible that you have no idea what those terms mean. This publication should clarify the confusion of constant current versus constant voltage.

Constant current conductors

LEDs usually have a power limiting device (controller or resistors) to prevent LEDs from overloading. A constant current controller is used to regulate the amount of current supplied to an LED or LED array to maximize the life of the LED. If the current is not regulated, the brightness of the LED may fluctuate and the service life may be reduced. The constant current controller is used for LEDs or lighting fixtures that require a stable output current and operate within a range of voltages. Most finished LED products already have a constant current controller or resistors to regulate the current. If you are building an LED accessory or replacing a constant current controller, it is important to verify that the output current and controller voltage is compatible with the current and voltage of the LEDs. If your LED product already has a constant current controller or uses resistors in the LED array, you may need a constant voltage power supply.

Constant voltage power supplies

Constant voltage power supplies can be used to power LED products that have constant current resistors or controllers. Products with these current regulation devices may require a constant voltage power supply if they need an operating voltage different from that supplied by the power source (home, vehicle, etc.). For example, LED light strips are equipped with current regulating resistors. If the light strip operates within a direct current (DC) range of 9-14.8 volts, it can be installed inside a vehicle with a 12 volt DC system without using a constant voltage power supply. For that strip of light to be installed in a home with a 120-volt AC (AC) wiring system, the voltage should be reduced and converted from AC to DC with a power supply. In some cases, constant current controllers that match the voltage and current requirements of the product and the power supply (home, vehicle, etc.) are available, and a constant voltage power supply would not be necessary.

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