LED Drivers

Here’s a simple guide to make sure you get the correct power supply (driver) for your LED strips.

1. Check the Voltage

First, look at your LED strip’s voltage. It will usually be either 12V or 24V.

Your new driver must match this voltage exactly. A 12V strip needs a 12V driver, and a 24V strip needs a 24V driver.

2. Work out the Power (Wattage)

Next, you need to calculate the total power (measured in watts, or ‘W’) your strip will use.

• Find the ‘watts per metre’ (W/m) for your LED strip. You’ll usually find this on the packaging (e.g., 14.4W/m).
• Measure the total length (in metres) of the strip you’re planning to use.
• Multiply the length by the watts per metre to get the total watts needed.

Example:

• You have 3 metres of strip.
• The strip uses 14.4W/m.
• 3m × 14.4W/m = 43.2W (This is the total power your strip needs).

3. Add a Safety Margin (Very Important!)

Don’t buy a driver that is exactly the wattage you need. It will run too hot and won’t last long.

You must choose a driver that can handle at least 20% more power than your total. This keeps it running cool and safely.

• To add 20%, just multiply your total watts by 1.2.

Example (continued):

• Your strip needs 43.2W.
• 43.2W × 1.2 = 51.84W

So, you need to buy a driver that is at least 51.84W. The next common size up (like a 60W driver) would be the perfect choice.