LED DIMMING
Methods
Dimming refers to the process of reducing the output intensity of a light source. It allows users to adjust the brightness level according to their specific requirements, creating a customized lighting experience.
3
Channels per universe
20%
Hybrid switches to PWM at
0%
Hybrid dims to
Lumen decrease
Output decreases when dimmed
what is led dimming?
> REDUCING OUTPUT TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS
Dimming refers to the process of reducing the output intensity of a light source. It allows users to adjust the brightness level according to their specific requirements, creating a customized lighting experience. By controlling the amount of power supplied to the light source, dimming offers flexibility and adaptability in various environments.
It’s important to know that as a light source is dimmed, its lumen output decreases. This means that the total amount of visible light emitted by the source is reduced. It is worth noting that different dimming methods and technologies can impact the behaviour and performance of lighting fixtures.
ADVANTAGES OF LED DIMMING
> WHY DIMMING MAKES SENSE
Energy efficiency
LED dimming allows for adjusting the light output according to the specific lighting needs, reducing energy consumption. By dimming LEDs, you lower the power supplied to the lights, resulting in energy savings and cost savings over time.
customizable environments
LED dimming provides the ability to create customizable lighting environments. Whether it's a cosy atmosphere in a residential setting or dynamic lighting scenes in commercial spaces, dimming allows control of intensity to match preferences.
improved visual comfort
By dimming LEDs, you can mitigate harsh lighting conditions and reduce glare. Dimming also contributes to better light quality and reduces eye strain, especially in spaces where lighting needs to vary throughout the day.
extended led lifespan
LEDs are known for their long lifespan, and dimming them can further enhance their longevity. Operating LEDs at lower light levels reduces the stress on components such as the LED modules and driver electronics, resulting in reduced maintenance costs.
enhanced mood & ambiance
Dimming allows for setting the desired mood and ambiance in different settings. Whether it's creating a warm and intimate atmosphere in a restaurant or adjusting levels in a conference room for presentations, LED dimming provides the flexibility for the perfect environment.
control compatibility
LED dimming is compatible with various lighting control systems and protocols. This enables seamless integration with smart lighting systems, allowing for centralised control, automation, and the ability to create complex lighting scenes or schedules.
environmental benefits
LED dimming contributes to environmental sustainability. By reducing energy consumption, LED dimming helps lower carbon emissions and reduces the overall environmental impact associated with lighting. It aligns with energy-efficient and eco-friendly practices, making LED dimming a greener lighting solution.
the tree dimming methods
> CCR, PWM and Hybrid explained
There are three main dimming methods used in LED lighting. Each works differently and has specific characteristics that make it more or less suitable depending on the application.
Constant current reduction
CCR dims the LED by continuously reducing the current flowing to it. The LED remains on at all times, but at a lower output level. This method produces no flickering, making it well suited to applications where camera use is important, such as photography, videography, and TV studios. CCR is also suitable for applications with strict EMI requirements. This type of dimming is sometimes referred to as “Analog Dimming”.
Pulse Width Modulation
'Pulse Width Modulation' dimming is a technique that switches the current on and off at a high frequency, varying the duty cycle of the pulses. The duty cycle is the ratio of the on time to the total period of the pulses. For example, if the current is on for 50% of the time and off for 50% of the time, the duty cycle is 50%. By changing the duty cycle, you can change the average current and thus the brightness of the LED. The frequency of the pulses should be high enough to avoid flicker and noise, typically above 360 Hz.
Hybrid dimming
This dimming method combines the PWM and CCR methods and creating the best of both methods. The CCR will be used to dim to 20% and then PWM will dim to 0%. With this system it is possible to create a deep, smooth dimming.
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> WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT DIMMING METHODS?
Want to know more about dimming? Look at our product pages to see which methods are compatible with our fixtures, or contact us. We are happy to help.