PC power supply for LED unit? Possible or not?

[Luan]

I would like to know if someone tried to use a PC power supply for supplying a DIY LED unit?

Any comments open for discussion?

 

[shaunn]

i could work most PSU's give some nice amps on 12v or 5 v , but my question how are are you going to soft switch it on coz normally the mb does that

 

[Luan]

MAybe just use the powersupply running threw a controller? I newer build a unit thats why I wondered if it could work

 

[dallasg]

why we use LED drivers specifically is that they are constant current or constant voltage suppliers, and made specifically for that use. spending money on buy quality LED's and not using the proper power supplies is a waste of money.

 

[Luan]

So actually the price is not for the LED's but more for the driver?

 

[the fish]

nope. the drivers are cheap it is what they do that makes it a better use than a PSU of a PC. even a DIY unit can be costly.

 

[dallasg]

both are important, a meanwell driver is about R300
but pointless making a DIY units with the wrong bits

whats that saying, penny wise and pound foolish

 

[the fish]

both are important, a meanwell driver is about R300 but pointless making a DIY units with the wrong bits whats that saying, penny wise and pound foolish

buying cheap is buying expensive

 

[Luan]

What unit will you recommend for a 1.2m(L)X 0.7m(W) X 0.6(H)

 

[the fish]

contact @ Andre@ReefAquatics they have the pharo units, he should be able to give you a good idea of what you can work with

 

[Luan]

In that case I "NEED" to go to the expo!!!

 

[the fish]

you can do that yes. would be suggested

 

[Andre@ReefAquatics]

You cannot use a PC power supply. They only put out 12v or 5V. You need a CC (Constant Current) supply and you need to forward bias the diode with a forward current of 700mA and voltage to turn on. Also a 12v supply will only be sufficient to power 4 LEDS.

Get you a proper 48V/60v driver and drop voltages using resistors.

Hope this helps.

 

[lIghty]

As some have noted, LED drivers drive the LED with a constant current, meaning that the driver will fluctuate the output voltage to ensure the correct current is maintained while the resistance of the LED chances due to temp etc.

 

[LCornelius]

I would not recommend using a pc power supply at all, but they do work fantastic to power fans for cooling your tank in summer!

 

[SAMI]

your drivers also effect the quality of light produced by your led!! As was said b dallas g high quality LED are a waste if the driver is not of good quality as well!