Flexibility in the Field with Selectable and Programmable Drivers
In the world of lighting systems, drivers play a crucial role in powering and controlling LED fixtures. For contractors, facility managers, and professionals in the lighting industry, the ability to customize and fine-tune lighting setups in the moment can be a game-changer. Selectable and programmable drivers offer precisely that—flexibility and control over lighting outputs to meet a variety of needs, without the need for special orders. In this article, we’ll explore what selectable and programmable drivers are, what is available, and why they are essential tools for today’s lighting professionals.
What are Selectable and Programmable Drivers?
Selectable Drivers
Selectable drivers allow users to adjust key output parameters, such as wattage and milliamps, directly on the driver. These adjustments are typically made via switches, enabling quick and easy customization on-site. This makes selectable drivers ideal for projects where fixtures vary across the project, or for maintenance jobs when you don’t know what needs to be replaced beforehand. Simply adjust the switch, and you’re ready to install. Currently, the selectable options from our top manufacturers include:
- Wattage
- Output Current
- CCT
- Dimming Settings (Bi-Level Dimming)
Programmable Drivers
Programmable drivers take customization a step further by allowing for software-based adjustments, often using apps or dedicated programming devices. The programmable settings and method of programming vary by manufacturer, with an option for almost every common driver replacement. With the push of a button, a small selection of drivers can conveniently and quickly adapt to whatever you may need on-site. The manufacturers we work with offer a range of programmable settings, including:
- Wattage
- Output Current
- Advanced Dimming Settings (Dimming Curve, Step Dimming, Dim-to-Off, & More)
- Grouping
- Thermal Feedback
- Auto Programming for High Volume Usage
Selectable & Programmable Options
Many manufacturers have stepped into the market, providing a variety of selectable and programmable drivers. These drivers range in terms of form factor, IP listings, features, programming methods, and intended applications. Here’s a brief breakdown of what we can provide for you:
Selectable:
..
- Fulham—PONY Selectable Current Drivers
- Selectable Settings: 3 Selectable Preset Currents (50mA intervals)
- Number of Models: 14
- Case Style: Linear & Compact
- Applications: Indoor
- IP Ratings: IP20
..
- Jaykal—M10 Vari-Watt Driver
- Selectable Settings: 6 Selectable Output Wattages
- Number of Models: 3
- Case Style: Linear
- Applications: Indoor
..
- Jaykal—DM50 Vari-Watt Driver
- Programmable Settings: 6 Selectable Output Wattages, Bi-Level Dimming
- Number of Models: 3
- Case Style: Linear
- Applications: Indoor
..
- Jaykal—High Efficacy Emergency Vari-Watt Driver
- Selectable Settings: 4 Selectable Output Wattages & Bi-Level Dimming
- Integrated Emergency Backup with Field Serviceable Battery
- Number of Models: 4
- Case Style: Linear
- Applications: Indoor
..
- Keystone—Power Select Adjustable Driver
- Selectable Settings: 4 Output Currents (50mA increments)
- Number of Models: 12
- Case Style: Linear
- Applications: Indoor
..
Programmable:
..
- Acuity Brands—eldoLED FieldSET Programmable Driver
- Programmable Settings: Output Current (1mA increments) & 3 Programmable Dimming Levels
- Number of Models: 10
- Case Style: Linear & Compact
- Applications: Indoor & Outdoor
- IP Ratings: IP20 & IP65
- Method of Programming: FieldSET Programmer Tool
..
- Fulham – WorkHorse Programmable Outdoor Driver
- Programmable Settings: Output Current (1mA increments), Advanced Dimming, DMX Address, Grouping
- Number of Models: 4
- Case Style: Linear & Compact
- Applications: Outdoor
- IP Ratings: IP65 & IP66
- Method of Programming: Fulham Programming Controller or Optional SmartSet Software on PC
..
- Fulham – ThoroLED Indooor Programmable Outdoor Driver
- Programmable Settings: Output Current (1mA increments), Advanced Dimming, DMX Address, Grouping
- Number of Models: 11
- Case Style: Linear & Compact
- Applications: Indoor
- IP Ratings: IP20 & IP65
- Method of Programming: Fulham Programming Controller or Optional SmartSet Software on PC
..
- Fulham – FireHorse Hotspot Constant Power Programmable Emergency Driver
- Programmable Settings: Output Wattage (3-10W), Self-Diagnostic, Detailed Data Logging
- Part of Emergency System, 5 Plug-and-Play Batteries Available Separately
- Number of Models: 2
- Case Style: Linear & Slim Linear
- Applications: Indoor
- IP Ratings: IP20
- Method of Programming: Fulham Programming Controller or Optional SmartSet Software on PC
..
- Keystone—SmartCurrent Flex Programmable Driver
- Programmable Settings: Output Current (1mA increments), Advanced Dimming Settings, Thermal Rollback, Luminous Decay Compensation, End of Life Settings, Fade-In Settings
- Number of Models: 12
- Case Style: Linear & Compact (with and without AUX taps)
- Applications: Indoor
- Method of Programming: USB Programmer to PC
..
- Keystone—SmartCurrent USB Programmable Driver
- Programmable Settings: Output Current (10mA increments), Advanced Dimming, Thermal Foldback Temperature
- Number of Models: 8
- Case Style: Linear & Compact
- Applications: Indoor
- Method of Programming: USB to Android Device
..
- Keystone—SmartCurrent Cradle Programmable Driver
- Programmable Settings: Output Current (10mA increments), Advanced Dimming, Thermal Rollback
- Number of Models: 11
- Applications: Indoor
- Method of Programming: Programmer cradle connected to PC via USB
..
See our product highlight post on Facebook and Instagram to see all these selectable and programmable driver options!
Considerations for Choosing the Right Driver
- Compatibility: Ensure the driver is compatible with your lighting fixtures and any control systems you plan to use.
- Environment & Application: Choose the right driver for the environmental conditions of your project. This is especially important in industrial or outdoor installations where exposure to dust, moisture, and temperature variations are a concern.
- Method of Programming: Confirm that you are equipped with the necessary tools to program in the field. Whether you are utilizing a handheld programmer or software on a PC, ensure that the proper technology is ready to use once on-site.
- Ease of Use: Selectable drivers should have intuitive controls, while programmable drivers should offer user-friendly programming interfaces that are accessible to technicians on-site. Consider which option works best for you and your team and reach out to us if you would like training with any of these systems!
Key Benefits of Selectable & Programmable Drivers
1. Customization Both selectable and programmable drivers provide unparalleled flexibility. Customization enables installers to tailor the driver to the fixture rather than having to source a specific driver for the fixture, eliminating delays and multiple site visits. The selectable and programmable features now available allow for precise control over important features, resulting in less hassle to find the right solution and streamline projects.
2. Simplified Inventory For contractors, having the right driver on hand can mean carrying a wide array of models in inventory. However, with selectable and programmable drivers, a single driver can cover multiple applications, reducing the number of models needed. This consolidates inventory and simplifies ordering, leading to potential cost savings and increased efficiency.
3. Reduced Lead Times With the infinite number of dedicated drivers utilized in lighting, replacing drivers can become a drawn-out process. The time spent sourcing in conjunction with lead times causes lengthy delays, meaning longer downtime and frustrations for the end user and additional labor costs for the contractor. Selectable and programmable drivers eliminate the hassle of this entire process with readily available solutions.
In an industry that demands flexibility and efficiency, selectable and programmable drivers stand out as an essential component. They simplify inventory, offer extensive customization, and reduce lead times—all while providing the adaptability needed to meet evolving requirements. Whether you’re managing a commercial building, setting up an outdoor lighting system, or upgrading a facility, these drivers offer a simple solution that makes achieving your lighting goals easier than ever.
By incorporating selectable and programmable drivers into your lighting strategy, you can provide better service to clients, streamline your own operations, and rest assured that you are prepared for whatever comes your way in the field.
