What is the difference: transformer, LED driver and power adapter?

A transformer, LED driver or power adapter - these are all accessories used with LED lighting to ensure the power supply functions correctly. For this reason, these terms are often used interchangeably, even though the devices differ significantly in operation. In this blog, we explain what a transformer, LED driver and power adapter are, and help you choose the right lighting accessory.

What is a transformer and how does it work?

A transformer is a device that reduces the alternating current (AC) to another alternating current (AC). Put more simply, it converts the 230V current to a lower voltage (e.g. 12V). These lower voltages are commonly used in light sources such as GU5.3, G53, GU4, and G4. Tip: With LED lighting, always ensure you choose a transformer compatible with LED!

How does a transformer work? A traditional transformer consists of two iron cores wrapped with copper wire (coils), which are placed within each other's magnetic field. When alternating current flows through one coil, it generates a current in the other coil. Electronic transformers use electronic circuits to convert mains voltage and often include overvoltage protection.

View all our transformers

What is an LED driver and how do you connect it?

A LED driver supplies LEDs with the correct current (mA) or voltage (DC), providing a controlled power supply tailored to the specific LED strip, downlight, panel, recessed spotlight and more. There are two types of LED drivers:

Constant current - Regulates the current, e.g. 350mA, 500mA or 1050mA.
Constant voltage - Provides a constant voltage (DC), for example 12V or 24V.

How do you connect a LED driver? With an external LED driver, first connect the LED lighting to the secondary side of the driver to prevent damage to your LEDs. Then, connect the primary side to the power network. For built-in drivers, only the second step is required.

View all our LED drivers

View all our LED strip drivers

What is the role of the power adapter in our drivers?

In most cases, the power adapter is built into the LED drivers we offer, which is why we often refer to them as the same product. A power adapter operates similarly to a constant voltage LED driver, converting the alternating current (AC) to a stable direct current (DC).

External drivers - Options for CCT, multi-lumen / multi-watt and DALI

LED panels, downlights, and recessed spots are available with CCT or multi-lumen/multi-watt functionality. The switch for these features is regularly located on the external driver. If you replace this external driver, the fixture will retain its CCT or multi-lumen/multi-watt functionality only if the new LED driver also supports these features. The same applies to a DALI fixtures with external drivers; the replacent driver must be DALI compatible.