What are some opinions on using 120vac to 36vdc constant current drivers in parallel to (theoretically) double the power output? Use two 50w drivers parallel to get 100w. This could spread the heat generated to two drivers instead of one, and perhaps each would last longer. Thanks.
Opinions on using AC-DC Constant Current Drivers in Parallel
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ssanasisredna
Enlightened
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... Except you double your failure points.
Well designed, a single 100W fixture should outlast due to less random failures, a single 50W unit.
Can you parallel them .... probably, but no guarantees. A diode in series with the output of each one so that the voltage from one cannot feed back into the other would probably raise that probability to 100%, but loses you some efficiency.
LEDite
Enlightened
I have used several ~50 watt LED assemblies where they parallel 2 drivers to get 50 Watts.
They have generally been reliable.
They have generally been reliable.
Julian Holtz
Enlightened
The failure mode of two drivers in parallel is better. Should one fail, you have still the other one working, and still have light.
The single driver might fail less often, but then you are in the dark.
The single driver might fail less often, but then you are in the dark.
