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…
You 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.
Summary and Overview
The 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.
The MakersCONTROLLER works in combination with MakersDRIVER(s) to create sunrise, sunset and other special effects throughout the day. Once the color ratios have been independently dialed in on the MakersDRIVER knobs, the MakersCONTROLLER scales those ratios up and down to match a user defined schedule.
Very cool. Until I came accross this site I was looking at the meanwell drivers and from what I’ve been reading you can not dim them less then 10% so the are too bright for moonlights.
A manual dimming kit for 0-10v is NOT $30. You just need a 10v power supply for $5 and a 10k potentiometer for $2.
And the wires for the meanwell can be put inside sleeving or into the heatsink fins, just like the makers driver.
Yes, you could do that pretty easy. For our costing, we loaded up a shopping cart with the the ‘off the shelf’ solution. See here
Ok makes sence and if I was to get rid of the makersdriver and just use the meanwells ldd and some pots how would I wire them up?
Sorry, the MakersCONTROLLER only works with MakersDRIVERS. The MakersCONTROLLER send out commands over the cable… not PWM or analog.