Meanwell LDD-H replaced by NLDD-H

The Meanwell LDD-H has been replaced by the updated pin matching replacement NLDD-H.

The outer dimensions have slightly changed. The NLDD has not yet been tested with the MakersDRIVER product line for compatibility.

Illuminating ABC News

There are hundreds of aquarium and planted tanks out there using the MakersHEATSINK, but we have never seen one like this.  David Wood works with the Los Angles ABC news station and uses his MakersHEATSINK fixture to help produce the news. David was kind enough to share a few photos from his unique LED lighting application.

David has definitely gone the extra mile, putting 2x 90W fixtures into his ENG (electronic news gathering) toolbox, including a daylight 5600k and a mixed 3200k/5600k version. As show in in the photos, there are some unique features to this build,  including a XLR 4-pin power plug, external 12v-16v input,  2 position power switch, MakersDRIVER 2up PRO, fuse, and waterproof power supplies. David uses high end LEDs rated at 3V @ 1Amp, in combination with lenses. 

On his next build, he plans on using 12 even higher quality LEDs with reflectors instead of lenses. He also has another camera-mounted build in the works using the MakersHEATSIN Slim with a dual controlled 3200W/5600k fixture at 35w.

David said that his builds have been “a lot of fun to design and build, as well as a nice tool to have in a more mobile environment in today’s ENG environment.”

We’re impressed and give kudos to David for his high build quality and eye for detail.

What are you using your MakersHeatsink for?

 

 

New! MakersLED Power Supply Cover

render with psuFinding a high wattage LED power supply that is consumer friendly is not easy. Believe us, we have looked…and looked.  If you do find one, they are expensive.  Here at MakersLED, we have designed a cover that will go onto many affordable chassis/frame power supplies that are 115mm x 50mm. This is a common power supply size that is fairly standardized.

When you use a chassis power supply without a cover or enclosure, it opens you up to safety risks like leaving AC power exposed, which creates electrocution and possible shorting hazards.

This power supply cover will work for many applications ranging from LED lighting (ie, combined with MakersDRIVERS), 3D printers, CNC Routers, Laser Cutters, or any hobby project that requires high voltage safety and convenience.

MakersLED-Power-Supply-CoverPlease visit the Product Page for full specifications

This power supply is currently available through MakersLED Factory Direct and LEDGroupBuy.com

MakersCONTROLLER Firmware: 5 Channels & New Features!

MakersCONTROLLER-screen-oveFor the last 3 weeks, we have been shipping MakersCONTROLLERs with updated firmware. The updates include:

  • 5 independent channels when used with the 5Up PRO MakersDRIVERs
  • 4 independent channels when used with 2 or more 2Up PRO MakersDRIVERs
    • Note: there is a jumper on the bottom of the MakersDRIVER 2up, when installed, allows it to “listen” on channels 3&4 (versus channels 1&2)
  • Individual start/stop times for each channel (user requested)
  • Thunderstorms & Lightning
  • Improved Randomized Cloud Cover
  • Improved Demo/Simulation mode- to help you preview an entire day in a few minutes

USB programming cables sets and instructions are available for $8 + shipping which will allow for field upgrades on existing controllers.

The MakersCONTROLLER retails for $50 and helps your LED build simulate day & night.

MakersDRIVER Compared

In this post we compare the MakersDRIVER to 2 Meanwell ELN-60 LED drivers. The Meanwell ELN series has been a long used LED driver in many DIY LED builds.

The MakersDRIVER proved to be less expensive, have more control options, have cleaner wiring, and a more finished look. Look below to see for yourself…

MakersDRIVER comapred to 2 of the Meanwell ELN-60 Series LED DriversYou may be able to build an LED fixture for less cost than either of the above configurations, but it will be difficult to achieve the simplicity and finished look the MakersDRIVER brings to the MakersLED heatsink.

* Dependent on Forward Voltage of LEDs, Input voltage, drive current

The MakersDRIVER and MakersCONTROLLER are currently available at LEDGroupBuy.com. The MakersDRIVER retails for $62 and the MakersCONTROLLER retails for $50.

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Would You, Could you Multichip?

multichip-mainWe’ve had a few users asking if these multichip LEDs would work on the MakersLED Heatsink.

We decided to grab a 40mm and a 20mm wide multichip off eBay and put them to the test. The larger multi-chip LEDs require high forward voltages, so of course we decided to our new MakersDRIVER which has up to a 45V forward voltage.

As you can see in the pictures, our patent pending LED star mounting t-slots had no problem mounting these big guys down to the heatsink. We did put a dab of thermal grease down under the LED to make sure it was completely in contact with the heatsink.

We turned the LEDs waaaaay down with the MakersDRIVER to take these pics.

Key Words: 10W China LED, 15W China LED, 20W China LED, 50W China LED, 100W China LED Package.

Coming Soon: MakersDRIVER

MakersDRIVER with MakersCONTROLLER cablesThe MakersDRIVER takes building finished DIY LED fixtures to a new level by simplifying power connections and providing multiple options for dimming control.

The MakersDRIVER utilizes an inexpensive 48V DC power source to drive up to 28 LEDs, a fan, and an optional controller. It provides 2 dimming channels, each capable of driving 14 LEDs. The MakersDRIVER incorporates user-replaceable Meanwell LDD series LED drivers. Dimming options include integrated knobs, 0-10V input, and a serial data interface.

 UPDATE: NOW AVAILABLE

 

Included:
MakersDRIVER Board, Plastic Housing, Knobs
2 Meanwell LDD 1000mA LED Drivers
Stainless Docking Hardware

Features:

  • Docks into the MakersLED Heatsink
  • Drives up to 28 3v LEDs at 1000mA (45V available per channel)
  • 2 channels of dimming (14 LEDs/channel)
  • Manual Dimming Interface
  • Multiple External Control options available:
    • Accepts 0-10V DC Analog lighting control signal (compatible with DIM4)
    • Data Interface with MakersCONTROLLER lighting controller (coming soon)
  • Daisy chain multiple MakersDRIVERS for single point of control with timed dimming
  • Powers one 12v Fan (no extra fan power supply needed!)
  • Fan failure detection – Flashes LEDs to alert failure (if fan is detected upon start-up)
  • Sockets provided for Meanwell LDD drivers allow for removal (upgrade and replacement)
  • Includes 2 1000mA Meanwell LDD Drivers (Compatible with 700mA LDD drivers)
  • Utilizes inexpensive 48V DC power supplies (not Included)
  • Fused, Reverse polarity protection
  • Docks into 1ft or greater MakersLED heatsinks with space for a fan
  • 90 Day Warranty*

Not Included:
Heatsink, 48V Power Supply, Wire/cables, Fan, LEDs.
Specifications are subject to change. Estimated shipping date is April 17.

*Warranty:90 day limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. MakersLED LLC will determine the root cause of the defect, and your item may be repaired or replaced free of charge. Customers pay for shipping to our service location and we pay for the return shipment. Warranty does not cover failure caused by accident, misuse, abuse, alteration, or faulty installation.