LED power supply

[baggielad]

I have a set of these LED strip lights which you can cut into lengths

https://www.screwfix.com/p/bendable-5m-led-tape-light-10w-1200lm/959fx

But only one power supply. It's rated at 12v 1a, so I was wondering can I use any power supply that is 12v and at least 1a, or is there a specific type which drives LED lights? I have some old power supplies from old modems and ot

 

[bernardgreen]

Those LED strips will work from a DC constant voltage supply, the resistor determines how much current will flow through the 3 LED elements.

Do NOT use a constant current LED "Driver" which will force excessive current through the diodes.

Although rated at 12 volts these strips will still be bright when supplied from a 9 volt supply. The reduced current will extent the life of the strips

 

[winston1]

Just make sure the power supply you use is regulated. Some can go to above 16 volts on low load.

 

[ericmark]

You ask a good question, in your case 12 volt or less no problem, however I bought a set from Lidi, and with the kit was a link so you can add a second set, but the power supply is only good enough to power one set.

I bought two sets, and they are far brighter than I expected. Had I read the box 22 watt does give one a clue, lucky mine are dim-able.

 

[baggielad]

Many thanks for the replies. Is there some symbol on the power supply that states if it's a regulated/constant voltage and not supplying a constant current?

 

[winston1]

Best way is to measure the output voltage on no load. If it is not 12 v within half a volt or so don’t use it.

 

[333rocky333]

Constant voltage will likely have just 12Vdc on it whereas constant current tend to have two voltages like 18v-48v for example, as the voltage adjusts to keep the current constant