Choosing Lights based on Power Requirements
Are you installing A. 12V and 24V (low voltage lighting) or B. 120V (high voltage, hard-wired)?
A. 12V AND 24V
Low voltage LED lighting is recommended and preferred for DIY.
LEDs are connected to a low voltage power supply, converting 120V into 12V and 24V, and keeping accidents to a minimum. Low voltage lighting also produces less heat, making for a more comfortable space
1. Do you have direct access to outlets or will you need to hard-wire?
2. How will you run your wire so that it is best concealed?
ADVANTAGES
Simple for DIY installations with no electrical wiring necessary
Electrical access is not required
DISADVANTAGES
Wire and cords can be difficult to hide
Requires the use of electrical outlets
B. 120V
Please consult or hire an electrician if you are not certified to handle 120V wiring. High voltage wiring is not only dangerous, installation will void warranties if not properly installed.
ADVANTAGES
Best for concealing wires
Works best with wall dimmers
Electricians/installers are familiar with these systems
DISADVANTAGES
Requires additional planning to route wires through cabinets
Requires direct access to 120V wiring
Not recommended for DIY
*Calculation for number of LED Lights per Power Supply:
(WATTS X QTY = TTL WATTAGE) +10% = MINIMUM REQUIRED WATTAGE OF POWER SUPPLY
(IE: 12 X M1 STEP LIGHTS =12W, 6 X RD7 CABINET LIGHTS =12W. TOTAL WATTAGE: 12+12 =24W + 10% =26.4W MINIMUM. MINIMUM 30W POWER SUPPLY IS REQUIRED.)
Homerun Installation
LED 2-wire “Homerun” installation. Multiple LEDs with a wire lead that runs from each LED light engine back to the power supply. Add dimming capabilities with a dimmable power supply (driver).
Daisy Chain Installation
To wire a series circuit like the one shown, the positive output from the driver connects to the positive of the first LED and from that LED a connection is made from the negative to the positive of the second LED and so on, until the last LED in the circuit. Finally, the last LED connection goes from the negative of the LED to the negative output of the constant current driver, creating a continuous loop or daisy chain. Add dimming capabilities with a dimmable power supply (driver).