Voltage regulators and converters for LED lighting

A voltage regulator stabilizes the electrical power supply by providing a constant output voltage, regardless of input voltage fluctuation. In a vehicle, the voltage can vary from 11V to 14.5V depending on the battery’s state of charge and the alternator speed. These variations cause flickering on LEDs and reduce their lifespan. The regulator eliminates this problem by delivering a perfectly stable 12V. It is particularly recommended for motorcycles, older vehicles and installations with sensitive LEDs, such as RGB strips.

A DC-DC converter transforms a direct current from one voltage into another direct voltage. For example, it converts 24V to 12V to use 12V accessories on a truck, or stabilizes a fluctuating 12V. An AC-DC converter transforms an alternating current (like that produced by certain generators or unrectified alternators) into stabilized direct current. AGM Vision’s AC-DC model accepts an input of 10 to 28V AC and delivers stable 12V DC at 36 watts, ideal for installations on vehicles with an unregulated alternator.

The converter power (in watts) must be higher than the total consumption of your LED lighting. Add up the power of each connected device and add a 20% margin. For example, to power two 40W LED bars each, the total consumption is 80W: choose a converter of 100W minimum. AGM Vision offers models of 36W (3A) for small installations and up to 120W (10A) for more powerful setups. An undersized converter will overheat and reduce the brightness of your LEDs.

Yes, that is precisely the function of a 24V to 12V DC-DC converter. It takes the 24-volt voltage from the truck’s electrical system and reduces it to stabilized 12 volts to power accessories designed for cars. This makes it possible to use 12V LED headlights, RGB controllers or any other equipment that is not compatible with 24V. The 8-40V to 12V converter offered by AGM Vision is ideal for this use: it accepts inputs from 8 to 40 volts and delivers a stable 12V with a power of 36W. Check that the amperage is sufficient for your equipment.

Quality voltage regulators incorporate several electronic protections. The converters offered by AGM Vision have protection against short circuits, overheating, overloads and reverse polarity. In the event of an anomaly, the converter automatically cuts off the output in order to protect your LED equipment. However, it is always recommended to add an upstream fuse of the converter on the main power supply cable, as additional protection. This double protection guarantees maximum safety for your installation.

Installing a voltage converter is simple. Connect the input wires (red and black) to the power source (battery or circuit protected by a fuse). Connect the output wires to your LED equipment. Secure the housing in a dry and ventilated place in the engine compartment, with screws or ties. Converters generate heat during operation: allow space for air circulation around the housing. Follow the color code of the wires (red = positive, black = ground). A protective fuse must be placed on the input cable, near the battery.