The phase-cut dimming functionality, also referred to as phase-control (PC), is a form of power control through pulse-with modulation (PWM). It operates by turning the AC mains power supply to the LED light on and off twice in every mains cycle. In doing so, the flow of electrical energy to the LED is reduced. This has the effect of decreasing the light output, thus enabling dimming of the luminous flux from 3-5 % to even 100 % (exact values depends on the corresponding dimmer type, driver, and LED used).
What are the different types?
Within phase-cut dimming, there are two variations. These are distinguished by how the mains voltage is cut off:
- Leading-edge dimming. This variation is most commonly applied to halogen lights that are powered via electromagnetic transformers. This technology cuts off the wave of the AC mains voltage on the leading edge, from the beginning.
- Trailing edge dimming. Whereas in trailing edge dimming, the wave of the AC mains voltage is cut off on the trailing edge, backwards from the end. This can be preferable as it means that there is less interference than can be seen with leading-edge dimming.
What are the benefits?
Phase-cut dimming technology allows for precise and responsive control of the luminous flux of the connected LED light(s), even when operating at low diming levels.
Phase-cut dimming is a simpler system to implement and set up than some DALI dimming systems. Utilising a phase-cut driver reduces the need for extra wiring via a rotary switch, often installed on the wall.
Provides high efficiency and high-quality dimming of 1-100 percent by amplitude dimming. Phase-cut technology is suitable for implementation with spotlights, downlights, LED panels, use in luminaires with flexible current setting, and indoor SELV installations.
OSRAM phase-cut drivers are cost-effective and compatible with both types of dimming.
What are the products?
OPTOTRONIC Phase-cut OTE-13/220-240/350-PC are ideal for phase-cut dimming control. Perfectly suited for indoor applications, the phase-cut constant current dimmable LED driver comes in a very compact housing, making it ideal for applications where space is limited. It can be applied to SELV installations and optional cable clamps enables independent installations. The E-style clamp can be purchased separately.
OT FIT 24V Phase-Cut LED drivers are also ideal for leading and trailing edge dimming. With 24 V DC constant voltage, they are simply perfect for the phase-cut dimming control of 24 V constant-voltage solutions. Available for different wattage requirements.
- 36 W: OT-FIT-36 /220-240/24-PC
- 18 W: OT-FIT-18/220-240/450-CS-PC-SC
- 10 W: OTE10/220-240/700-PC
About Inventronics
NB: In May 2023, OSRAM sold its LED Drivers, Lighting Controls, LED Flex, and LED Modules business to Inventronics. These products continue to be branded OSRAM but are now owned, designed, manufactured, and developed by Inventronics.
