MeanWell P Series DO work with APEX & 0-10v

Discussion in 'LED Aquarium Lighting' started by Biocube, Sep 18, 2012.

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  1. Biocube

    Biocube Giant Squid

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    How am I able to use P series drivers from MeanWell on my Apex system? I just discovered this and would like to know if I am damaging anything?

    From my understanding you need to use D series drivers.

    This thread is talking about the MeanWell: ELN-60-48P
     
    Last edited: Sep 18, 2012
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  3. exactlyobp

    exactlyobp Giant Squid

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    Hunter where are you?? We need your input!!
     
  4. Biocube

    Biocube Giant Squid

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    I have no idea! I just wired it like anyone normally would.

    Here are the two drivers I am currently using.

    ImageUploadedByTapatalk1347997060.717943.jpg
     
  5. evolved

    evolved Wrasse Freak

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    D = Direct. As in the driver "reads" a 1-10V signal.

    P = PWM (pulse width modulation). As in the driver "reads" a series of rectangular pulses, in a 0-10V range. Pulse-width modulation - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

    So the question becomes what happens when a PWM driver gets a direct signal? To that, I'm not entirely sure, but I'll speculate two possible results. You may have a high frequency pulsing of your light output (too high to visibly detect; I kinda doubt this). But I'd definitely tend to think the response of the drivers is not linear to the signal you're providing them. Meaning 50% isn't really 50%, but maybe 40%-60%.

    Summary: I'm not sure. :) We need an EE in here (cue Andy or Lucas).
     
  6. Biocube

    Biocube Giant Squid

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    Well I'm okay with the 50% being 40-60%. Everything is working correctly, I can't go below 19% on my Apex VDM but from what I understand that's normal.
     
  7. Biocube

    Biocube Giant Squid

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    Good news!!!

    Looks like the the 48p can use either PWM signal or 0-10v signal, you can put the 9v battery on the wires and it will run. Looks like P series is pretty clever.
     
    Last edited: Sep 18, 2012
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  9. LoJack

    LoJack Sea Dragon

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    Looks like you just saved me $200

    In my previous thread it looked as though the only solution to my problem was to buy new "D" drivers to replace my "P" Drivers so that I could run them with the APEX controller.

    How about that lol

    Your the goods biocube!
     
  10. Biocube

    Biocube Giant Squid

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    I will be adding another P series driver next week, this will be my final confirmation that it DOES work with the Apex VDM. I have no idea about any other 0-10v systems.

    I'll keep you all posted, with my install Thursday.

    Hope I don't blow anything.
     
  11. Biocube

    Biocube Giant Squid

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    Well after researching MeanWells site, it says on their spec sheets that the P series works with PWM and 0-10v.

    Look at Dimming Control.
    ImageUploadedByTapatalk1348008166.989790.jpg

    Problem solved!!!

    Hope this helps save people $ down the road.
     
    Last edited: Sep 18, 2012
  12. LoJack

    LoJack Sea Dragon

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    Woot Woot ... Thanks for this!