How to Choose the Right Power Supply
Selecting the correct power supply ensures your LED lighting performs safely and efficiently. This guide will help you calculate power needs, understand voltage types, and make the right choice for your application.
⚙️ 1. Understand Your Load
Before choosing a power supply (PSU), you need to know the total power your system requires.
🔢 Power Calculation
Formula:
Total Power (W) = LED Strip Power per Meter × Total Length
Example:
- LED strip: 14.4W/m
- Length: 5 meters
14.4W × 5m = 72W
📈 2. Add a Safety Margin
Always choose a PSU with at least 20–30% headroom above your calculated load. This helps prevent overheating and improves lifespan.
Example:
- Required power: 72W
- Safety margin: 30%
72W × 1.3 = 93.6W→ Choose a 100W PSU
🔌 3. Match the Voltage
Your PSU voltage must match your LED strip voltage exactly (e.g., 12V, 24V, or 48V). Mixing voltages will damage your LEDs.
Tip: Never use a 24V supply with a 12V strip (or vice versa).
🌡 4. Consider the Environment
Choose the right IP rating for your installation:
| Use Case | IP Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Indoors | IP20 | For dry, ventilated areas |
| Damp/Wet Areas | IP65+ | For outdoor or humid use |
| Industrial Use | IP67/IP68 | High protection, rugged use |
🔌 5. PSU Form Factors
Depending on where and how you'll install the PSU:
| Type | Features | Example Use | Example product |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enclosed | Ventilated metal case | Cabinet installs | VPSU-RSP-320-24 |
| Waterproof | Fully sealed, resin-filled | Outdoor signage | VPSU-HLG-40H-24A |
| DIN Rail | Mounts on standard DIN rails | Electrical panels | VPSU-NDR-480-24 |
🧠 6. Summary Checklist
- Calculate LED power load
- Add 20–30% safety margin
- Match the voltage exactly
- Choose suitable IP rating
- Pick the right form factor
🧰 Example PSU Selection
| Power | Voltage | PSU Model | Environment |
|---|---|---|---|
| 400W | 5V | VPSU-SuperSlim-400-5 | |
| Indoor | |||
| 150W | 24V | VPSU-SuperSlim-150W-24 | Indoor |
| 100W | 24V | VPSU-SuperSlim-100W-24-IP67 | |
| Outdoor |
🛠 Need Help?
Still unsure? Contact our technical team for expert advice.