An LED power supply, often also called an LED driver or transformer, is a device used to regulate the power needed to operate LED lighting. They convert alternating current (AC) to a direct current (DC) and have a range of functions that allow the user to control their LEDs.

In this guide, we will introduce some of the different types of LED power supplies and explain how they work.

In this guide:

LED power supply voltage options

One of the most important considerations when choosing the right power supply for your LED lighting is the input voltage. LED lights typically have an input voltage of 5v, 12v or 24v and the power supply you choose should have an output voltage that matches this to prevent voltage drop and other issues.

5v LED lighting is ideal for small internal applications as well as gardens with appropriate weather protection. 12v lights are commonly used in bedrooms and kitchens but can also be used externally, owing to the reliability of 12v power supplies. As the highest input voltage, 24v LED lights are the most powerful and must have a 24v power supply in order to operate.

Another factor to bear in mind when looking for a power supply for your LED lights is the difference between constant current and constant voltage output. Many of our power supplies such as the 60w 5v PSU are constant voltage, meaning they provide a stable output voltage and a maximum output current which is ideal for LED strip lighting and similar circuits of multiple LEDs connected to one another.

We stock a comprehensive range of MEAN WELL power supplies, renowned for their reliability and long-term performance. These professional-grade units are available from 18W to 480W in various voltages, providing solutions for everything from small accent lighting to large commercial installations.

For more information about our collection of 5v, 12v and 24v power supplies, as well as advice on choosing the right power supply for your LEDs, read our expert guide.

Dimmable LED power supply

A dimmable power supply enables you to adjust the brightness of your LED lights. The two main types of dimmable power supply are Triode for Alternating Current (TRIAC) and Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI).

TRIAC devices are wired to mains supplies and work like a dimmer switch. They are common in commercial lighting applications like event venues as they allow you to control the intensity of your LEDs. Our TRIAC dimmable power supplies are available in 100W 12V, 100W 24V and 200W options, all with leading and trailing edge compatibility.

DALI modules, on the other hand, use a two-way digital protocol that sends dimming instructions to LED drivers and dimmable LED bulbs. This type of power supply is more common in applications where LEDs need to be controlled across multiple areas such as several storeys of a building. Our DALI power supplies offer smooth, flicker-free dimming with a range from 0.1% to 100%.

We sell both TRIAC and DALI power supplies, and many of our devices have built-in three-in-one functions for resistive dimming, 0-10v or 1-10VC dimming and pulse-width-modulation signal dimming. These versatile units are perfect for professional lighting installations where precise control is essential.

Our guide to dimmable LED power supplies explains what these functions are in more detail and discusses how to choose the right device for your lighting application.

Plug-style LED power supply

Plug-style power supplies are the simplest type of LED transformer, as they simply plug into an outlet and connect to the LED light by a cable. They are compact, lightweight, ready to use right out of the box and easy to replace.

Our plug-in power supplies feature short circuit, overload voltage and overload current protections that prevent damage to your LEDs. Available in various wattages including 24W, 36W and 65W options, these units come with 1800mm cables and standard 2.1mm DC male plug ends.

We also offer multi-plug power supplies with interchangeable AC heads, allowing you to select the appropriate plug style for your needs: UK, AU, US and EU options are available. This makes them perfect for international projects or applications requiring different plug formats.

Like all power supplies, with plug-in devices, you should make sure the output voltage is the same as the input voltage of your lights. Other considerations for this kind of power supply include the operating temperature (ours have working temperatures of 0 to 40 degrees) and the IP ratings of the lights and the power supply.

We discuss these factors in more detail in our expert guide to plug-style power supplies.

Choosing the right power supply

When selecting an LED power supply, consider these key factors:

  • Voltage matching - Ensure your power supply voltage matches your LED requirements (5V, 12V, or 24V)
  • Wattage capacity - Calculate your total LED consumption and choose a PSU with at least 20% headroom
  • Installation environment - Consider IP ratings for indoor vs outdoor applications
  • Dimming requirements - Choose dimmable PSUs if brightness control is needed
  • Brand reliability - Our MEAN WELL range offers proven long-term reliability

Related content