

A constant current LED driver is an electronic component designed to regulate the current flowing through LED lights. Unlike constant voltage drivers, this component ensures a steady current supply, which is critical for maintaining consistent brightness and protecting LEDs from overcurrent damage.








Below are the general technical specifications for a constant current LED driver. Specific values may vary depending on the model and manufacturer.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 12V to 48V DC (varies by model) |
| Output Current Range | 350mA, 700mA, or 1A (constant current) |
| Output Voltage Range | 3V to 36V (depending on LED configuration) |
| Efficiency | Up to 90% |
| Dimming Support | PWM, 0-10V, or TRIAC (model-dependent) |
| Protection Features | Overcurrent, overvoltage, short circuit |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +70°C |
| Form Factor | Compact, PCB-mounted or enclosed module |
The pin configuration for a typical constant current LED driver is as follows:
| Pin Name | Description |
|---|---|
| VIN+ | Positive input voltage terminal |
| VIN- | Negative input voltage terminal (ground) |
| LED+ | Positive output terminal for LED connection |
| LED- | Negative output terminal for LED connection |
| DIM | Dimming control input (PWM or analog signal) |
VIN+ pin and the negative terminal to the VIN- pin.LED+ pin and the negative terminal to the LED- pin.DIM pin. Refer to the driver’s datasheet for the supported dimming method and signal range.Below is an example of controlling the dimming function of a constant current LED driver using an Arduino UNO and PWM.
// Example: Dimming an LED using Arduino UNO and a constant current LED driver
// Connect the DIM pin of the LED driver to Arduino pin 9
const int dimPin = 9; // PWM pin connected to the DIM input of the LED driver
int brightness = 0; // Initial brightness level (0-255)
int fadeAmount = 5; // Amount to change brightness by each step
void setup() {
pinMode(dimPin, OUTPUT); // Set the DIM pin as an output
}
void loop() {
analogWrite(dimPin, brightness); // Send PWM signal to control brightness
// Adjust brightness for a fade effect
brightness = brightness + fadeAmount;
// Reverse direction of fade at the ends of the range
if (brightness <= 0 || brightness >= 255) {
fadeAmount = -fadeAmount;
}
delay(30); // Delay to control fade speed
}
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| LED does not light up | Incorrect wiring or polarity | Double-check all connections and polarity. |
| LED flickers | Incompatible dimming signal or noisy input | Use a compatible dimming signal; filter the input. |
| Driver overheats | Insufficient ventilation or overloading | Improve cooling or ensure the load matches specs. |
| LED brightness is inconsistent | Driver output current mismatch | Use a driver with the correct constant current. |
Can I use a constant current LED driver with multiple LEDs? Yes, but ensure the LEDs are connected in series, and the total forward voltage is within the driver's output voltage range.
What happens if I exceed the driver's input voltage range? Exceeding the input voltage range can damage the driver. Always use a power supply within the specified range.
Can I use a constant current LED driver for non-LED applications? No, these drivers are specifically designed for LEDs and may not work properly with other loads.
How do I know if my LED driver supports dimming? Check the datasheet or product label for dimming specifications (e.g., PWM, 0-10V).
By following this documentation, you can effectively use a constant current LED driver to power and control your LED lighting systems.