Guide
Power supply calculator
Power from the datasheet, measure the length, add 20 % headroom. The calculator does the rest.
Short answer
PSU power = watts per metre (datasheet) × length × 1.2. Example: 10 m of strip at 13 W/m and 24 V needs 130 W, so a PSU from 156 W, commonly 200 W. Current is power ÷ voltage, here 5.4 A. Enter the PSU’s rated current in WLED as the current limit (ABL).
–LED power
–Current at full white
–Minimum PSU
–ABL = PSU rated current (here minimum size)
5 V strip over 2 m: voltage drop is likely. Inject at both ends at least.
Example values: 24 V WS2811 pixel strip, 13 W/m. The current limiter only estimates and does not replace a fuse.
What else matters
- Voltage: PSU, controller and strip need the same voltage. The longer the run, the more likely 24 V.
- Injection: beyond the strip’s maximum feed length, feed plus and minus additionally; the data line runs through.
- Several PSUs: connect minus (GND), never parallel the plus outputs.
- Current limit: WLED only estimates current. Fusing and cable cross-section are for a qualified electrician.
Pre-calculated for all strips in the range: PSU table. With zones, controller check and shopping list: set planner.
Safety
Disconnect the PSU from mains before working on cables. Work on the 230 V side only by a qualified electrician.
Sources: Adafruit: ABL default 850 mA · WLED forum: ABL only estimates · Strip datasheet values
Related
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For business
Questions about your setup? LED-Emotion advice: +49 5132 8305530, Mon–Fri 9 am–4 pm CET, or request support.