The voltage required to power a white LED varies by type, typically ranging from 2.8V to 3.5V. LEDs operate on direct current (DC), whereas electrical grids supply alternating current (AC). In the US, the standard voltage is 120V, while in Europe, it is 230V. Streetlights in the US often use 277V. To bridge this gap and ensure LEDs receive the correct power, a special device is needed—this device, which is usually built into the fixture, is called a driver.
But what about LED lamps that screw into regular sockets without an external driver? In this case, the driver is housed inside the lamp itself.
Why Is a Driver Necessary?
A driver performs several crucial functions:
- Converts AC power to DC and smooths out fluctuations
- Lowers the voltage to a suitable level
- Maintains a stable power supply for LEDs
Additionally, advanced drivers enable remote control features, such as switching the light on and off, adjusting brightness, or even changing color temperature.
Manufacturing Details
The driver is one of the most expensive components of an LED fixture. For example, in a recessed office ceiling light, the driver can account for 40–50% of the total cost, whereas the LEDs themselves contribute only 20–30%.
LED drivers are usually produced as separate modules, which are then integrated into the fixture or mounted on it. Most LED fixture manufacturers don’t produce their own drivers—they source them from specialized companies. This approach helps reduce costs while improving product quality.
Lifespan: What Matters Most?
In the past, the light source was the limiting factor in a fixture’s lifespan—incandescent bulbs lasted around 1,000 hours, while fluorescent lamps reached 10,000 hours.
Switching to LEDs changed everything. Modern LEDs can last up to 100,000 hours. If used for 8 hours a day, that’s about 30 years of operation.
The weak link is now the driver; widely available models are rated for around 50,000 hours. The primary factor limiting a driver’s lifespan is its electrolytic capacitors, which age over time—even when the fixture is not in use. After 10 years, their performance can degrade significantly. High-end drivers rated for 100,000 hours replace electrolytic capacitors with film capacitors, which last much longer. However, these components are expensive, increasing the overall fixture cost.
When choosing an LED fixture, don’t focus solely on LED longevity—the driver determines the actual lifespan. If you can’t find any details about the driver, look at the manufacturer’s warranty period—a longer warranty is often a good indicator of quality.
