1. What is a BTF LED Power Supply Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the minimum power supply wattage needed for BTF LED lighting systems with a 20% safety margin.

Purpose: Helps LED installers and DIY enthusiasts select appropriately sized power supplies to prevent overload and ensure reliable operation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P_{supply} \) — Required power supply wattage (watts)
• \( P_{LED} \) — Wattage per individual LED (watts)
• 1.2 — 20% safety margin factor

Explanation: The total LED wattage is calculated and then increased by 20% to account for power fluctuations and ensure long-term reliability.

3. Importance of Proper Power Supply Sizing

Details: Undersized power supplies can cause dimming, flickering, or premature failure, while oversized units waste energy and money.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of LEDs in your system and the wattage per LED (typically 0.2W for standard BTF LEDs). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why the 20% safety margin?
A: The margin accounts for voltage drops, temperature effects, and ensures the power supply isn't running at maximum capacity.

Q2: What's the typical wattage for BTF LEDs?
A: Most BTF LEDs range from 0.2W to 1W each, with 0.2W being common for standard LED strips.

Q3: Should I round up the calculated wattage?
A: Yes, always choose a power supply with equal or higher wattage than the calculated value.

Q4: Does this work for RGB LEDs?
A: For RGB LEDs, calculate each color channel separately and sum the totals.

Q5: What about constant current LEDs?
A: This calculator is for constant voltage LEDs. Constant current systems require different calculations.