is it wise to run ep-e led's at 1000 ma

lenzh · #1 08-21-2012, 02:24 AM

not sure aboiut xpe's but I have been running 72 Cree XR-E's for over 2 years (May 2010) at 1000 ma with buckpuck drivers on my 180 with no issues. that is maximum amps for them

Snaz · #2 08-21-2012, 02:32 AM

While I'm sure the LEDs will grow nice turf, so will a 4500K CFL bulb... Just saying.

My upflow ATS is running a couple of days now and I'm looking forward to seeing what grows. Very simple design; an air diffuser, #7 mesh and 18w CFL.

martinmcnally · #3 08-21-2012, 06:22 AM

1Amp is the absolute maximum for a a lot of those style LEDs. The reason for running them at 800mA is just a longevity factor. 800mA gives you a nice buffer zone where you can be sure the driver will keep the current below that 1A value. However if you increase the average output to 1A then you do risk burning out the LEDs because of fluctuation in the power during the day. Any kind of spike large or small would put the current above 1A and start to damage the LEDs or burn them out completely. Best to stick to slightly below 1A and perhaps add another LED or two.

Having said all that a good quality driver should prevent that from happening.