Abstract

A non-isolated LED driver is a type of LED driver circuit that does not have electrical isolation between the input and output sides of the circuit. Non-isolated LED drivers are generally simpler and less expensive than isolated LED drivers, which require additional components to provide isolation.

However, non-isolated LED drivers can present safety risks if not designed and installed properly. Overall, the use of non-isolated LED drivers depends on the specific application and safety requirements. It is important to consult with a qualified engineer or expert to determine the most appropriate LED driver circuit for a particular application.

The non-isolated LED driver market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by the increasing adoption of LED lighting in various applications due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and environmental benefits. The market is also driven by the rising demand for smart lighting solutions that require compact and efficient LED drivers.

Major Concern When Designing with Non-isolated LED Drivers

1. The electric strength between LED and LED board should be >3kV. This requirement is for both surge protection and safety considerations.
2. Designers have to make sure that the surge residual voltage between the LED and ground should be less than 75% of LED board rated value.
3. The LED board route design should follow up with stricter safety clearance according to IEC61347 and UL8750 compared with the ones with isolated LED drivers.
4. Understand the key differences between non-isolated and isolated drivers as below.

Difference between Non-isolated and Isolated LED drivers

Non-isolated and isolated LED drivers are two different types of LED drivers that provide power to LEDs. The main difference between them is in the way they provide electrical isolation between the input and output sides of the driver.

On the other hand, isolated LED drivers provide electrical isolation between the input and output sides of the driver. This means that the voltage and current on the output side of the driver are not directly connected to the input side of the driver, which provides a level of safety and protection against electrical shock. Isolated LED drivers are typically more complex and expensive than non-isolated LED drivers because they require additional components to provide electrical isolation. With the pressure of fixture cost performance, now more and more non-isolated LED drivers are used in high-power LED applications, such as outdoor lighting, automotive lighting, and industrial lighting.

uPowerTek Non-isolated LED Drivers

uPowerTek offers wide product portfolio of high power non-isolated drivers as below.

Summary

Non-isolated LED drivers have been a popular choice for high power LED lighting for the recently years. They are simpler and less expensive than isolated LED drivers, making them a cost-effective option for lighting applications such as industrial, horticultural and other high power lighting.

Overall, the trend in non-isolated LED drivers is towards higher efficiency, greater flexibility, and smaller form factors. These drivers will continue to play a significant role in the lighting industry, particularly in high power applications.