Matching Drivers and COBs

SupraSPL

Well-Known Member
This chart shows how many COBs you can fit on each driver. Hopefully it will save DIYers some time or give them some ideas.

If the number of COBs is 3.93 for example, you could run 4 and you won't get the full drive current but you will get full driver efficiency. If the number is 4.1 that is a very good match, full driver efficiency and cost efficiency. (Driver efficiency is highest when the voltage load on the DC side is at or near the maximum)

The high voltage drivers work with the COBs wired in series. The high current drivers (HLG-320H and 600H) work with the COBs wired in parallel and those are good options if you want to run multiple COBs at high current. They are all dimmable. Prices are based on Onlinecomponents.com because they have $6.95 flat shipping cost. If you are buying 10 or more Sager might be the best bet.

Driver matching.png
 
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Rahz

Well-Known Member
I haven't researched all drivers but have noticed with the HLG series the difference between maxing the driver out and running it at 75-80% is small. I've also noticed Bridgelux and probably others recommend 15% of driver potential goes unused. Presumably to extend the life of the driver. I'm not suggesting maxing a driver out is bad, but it should all be taken into consideration.
 

PurpleBuz

Well-Known Member
This chart shows how many COBs you can fit on each driver. Hopefully it will save DIYers some time or give them some ideas.

If the number of COBs is 3.93 for example, you could run 4 and you won't get the full drive current but you will get full driver efficiency. If the number is 4.1 that is a very good match, full driver efficiency and cost efficiency. (Driver efficiency is highest when the voltage load on the DC side is at or near the maximum)

The high voltage drivers work with the COBs wired in series. The high current drivers (HLG-320H and 600H) work with the COBs wired in parallel and those are good options if you want to run multiple COBs at high current. They are all dimmable. Prices are based on Onlinecomponents.com because they have $6.95 flat shipping cost. If you are buying 10 or more Sager might be the best bet.

View attachment 3499846
the best column for me is the cost/watt....

for all the DIY that insists on being spoon fed rather than learning how to fish this chart will be helpful. Thanks!!
 

nevergoodenuf

Well-Known Member
Great job Supra! But I have to add that on the drivers that you run in parallel, the # of COBs is a minimum. Meaning, you can run 24 Vero 29s @ 25 watts each on the HLG-600, but you don't want to run less than 6 (100 watts each).
 

alesh

Well-Known Member
Bonjour
Is there a hlg-185-350?
If there is not...may I run 14 vero13 on a hlg-120-350b? It is a bit more than the V of the driver, but less than 1%.
Have a great day ★
There isn't because its output voltage would be >500V.
Regarding 14 Vero13s on HLG-120H-C350b - I can't say for sure but I think that it would run with a slightly lower current.
 
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CanadianONE

Well-Known Member
This chart shows how many COBs you can fit on each driver. Hopefully it will save DIYers some time or give them some ideas.

If the number of COBs is 3.93 for example, you could run 4 and you won't get the full drive current but you will get full driver efficiency. If the number is 4.1 that is a very good match, full driver efficiency and cost efficiency. (Driver efficiency is highest when the voltage load on the DC side is at or near the maximum)

The high voltage drivers work with the COBs wired in series. The high current drivers (HLG-320H and 600H) work with the COBs wired in parallel and those are good options if you want to run multiple COBs at high current. They are all dimmable. Prices are based on Onlinecomponents.com because they have $6.95 flat shipping cost. If you are buying 10 or more Sager might be the best bet.

View attachment 3500031
Efficiency numbers are MAXIMUM based on running them 215-277 VAC. The efficiency numbers are 1-2% less at 115 VAC. Also looking at the datasheets most driver are at or near there maximum efficiency driven at 115 VAC @ 50-60% driver load. Just wanted to point that out for those who may not know this already.
 

benbud89

Well-Known Member
Im more and more hooked on the putting 3 x 72v cxb3590 on the hlg-120h-c700 and make two of these bars. That seems like a nice fit and something that would give me just about 300w in my 2x3 sqft area, right? What would I need in terms of cables and miscellaneous? Thanks again! :=)
 

littlejacob

Well-Known Member
Im more and more hooked on the putting 3 x 72v cxb3590 on the hlg-120h-c700 and make two of these bars. That seems like a nice fit and something that would give me just about 300w in my 2x3 sqft area, right? What would I need in terms of cables and miscellaneous? Thanks again! :=)
Bonjour
You have 6sq/ft so 6x30w=180w.
A hlg 185-1400 with 4 is not enough for you? 200w!?
Did you take the b version?
You're going to have a lot of light!!
Have a great day ★
 
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