How do you wire a TRIAC LED control system?
It can be challenging to wire TRIAC dimmers to LED drivers, so here is a breakdown of how to go about the task. The most common dimmer is the standard forward phase dimmer: it comprises a TRIAC and a resistance circuit. Resistance is controlled by a potentiometer, and the RC time then controls the amount of delay created before a TRIAC turns on which is also the firing angle.
The period of time when the TRIAC is on (active) is referred to as a ‘conduction angle’. This results in a voltage waveform which is a phase-cut sine wave (a ‘sinusoid’). A standard switching converter is used in regulating the output with no limits on the input voltage. In this case, the phase-chopped waveform provided by the phase dimmer is decoded first; the decoded info is used in controlling the reference for output regulation.
‘Leading edge’ dimmers make use of a TRIAC switch in controlling power while ‘trailing edge’ dimmers use MOSFETs or IBGTs to control power. So it is important to ensure that your phase-cut dimmable LED driver is compatible with the dimmer switch you will be using before you can make any purchase.
How do I wire a TRIAC power supply?
A TRIAC has 3 terminals MT1, the gate and MT2 thyristors that use alternative symbols. You wire them in inverse parallel, you can then control them using a one-gate terminal. Current is then transmitted in whichever direction you choose, whether to MT1 or MT2 terminals which is then used in controlling AC power.
Positive or even negative gate current is used as a trigger regardless of the polarity of the MT2 which leads to four trigger modes. You experience a greater current sensitivity when you have MT2 and gate currents on the same polarity, either as both negatives or both positives.
Can I control other lighting using the same TRIAC controller/dimmer? – for example, LED lights and other things?
To answer your question, yes you can!
A TRIAC controller provides efficiency and permanence. It works by reducing and rectifying the 120AC to a 12/24V DC signal, which is compatible with LED strips. And also by interpreting data signals and translating the instructions to the LED strip.
Can TRIAC work with home automation systems such as Lutron and KNX?
Definitely! TRIAC works with both systems to provide you with efficient home lighting!
What cable do I use for TRIAC power supplies?
A python power cable is best suited for use with TRIAC power supplies, as it allows for DC sensors to be installed in places where there is AC power.
What is ‘leading edge’?
These are switches that were originally used in dimming incandescent and halogen bulbs. Commonly referred to as a TRIAC dimmer and commonly used in dimming controls. A good example is a BG screwless 1-gang 2-way 400W dimmer.
What is ‘trailing edge’?
This is a little more sophisticated, in comparison to leading-edge dimmers. Trailing edge dimmers have a lower minimum load, and are ideal for low-powered lighting circuits.
What is the difference between leading-edge and trailing-edge dimmers?
| Leading edge | Trailing edge |
| Cheaper and simpler | More expensive and sophisticated |
| Provide high minimum load | Provide low minimum load |
| Common in use but not in LED lighting circuits | Commonly used in low powered lighting circuits |
What is a ‘dimming curve’?
This refers to how dimmers react to voltage output, as a direct response to input from a control signal. An LED light usually dims in proportion to the input it receives in a linear way, in what is referred to as the ‘dimming curve’.
Any other details you want to know about traic dimmable led driver, please contact GrowLing Now.
