Led From G4 12V

[redisblue]

Hi all,

I'm new here so be gentle with me!

I have some lights, each has 3 of G4 12v 20w capsule lamps.

I want to replace these with LEDs

I'm a little confused as to whether this is possible or not using the existing transformers.

They are currently running at 60w (3 x 20w = 60w)

I am reading about flickering problems which can result by changing to LEDs

Is anyone able to give me a simple difinitive answer, or an example of how to calculate if the transformer is compatible.

If I do need to change the transformers, can you reccommend the type I should buy.

Many thanks.

P.S. How do I post a picture?

 

[Lurch]

Chances are the transformer will have a minimum loading, the LEDs will be below this rating. You can either look at the rating plate on the transformer or just reduce the load until you experience flickering.

If you swap the transformer the type you replace it with will depend on exactly what type of lamps you buy. Buy a suitable one that is recommended for the lamps you buy.

 

[redisblue]

OK thanks,

I have a new transformer here, it's a spare from when I replaced some others.

There is a panael on it which says       10-60w     11.8v       I asume the '10' is the minimum wattage

I would guess from that I could put 3 of 4w which would take each unit up to 12w (2w above the minimum of 10w) is that correct?

Assuming they fit the light.

What is the equivalent 'brightness of 12w LED against 60w G4 halogen capsule?

Thanks for your help.

 

[Lurch]

I have a new transformer here, it's a spare from when I replaced some others.

There is a panael on it which says       10-60w     11.8v       I asume the '10' is the minimum wattage

I would guess from that I could put 3 of 4w which would take each unit up to 12w (2w above the minimum of 10w) is that correct?

That sounds correct.

What is the equivalent 'brightness of 12w LED against 60w G4 halogen capsule?

There is too much variance in the quality of the LEDs used and colour temps etc to be able to answer that.

 

[redisblue]

Thanks for the replies,

I have realised there is another problem, I assume the existing transformers are drawing in 240v AC and dropping that down to 12v AC, is that correct?

If so, I guess I need AC LEDs is that correct?

I have seen some advertised as being AC/DC.......do these have a chip that converts the signal to DC and so would be OK?

Sorry if the terminology isn't correct, I'm no sparks!

 

[Lurch]

I guess I need AC LEDs is that correct?

In a fashion, yes. You want lamps with drivers in which can be supplied with AC or DC. Some will rely on external drivers so will be DC only. Depending where you buy them from the requirements will probably be termed slightly differently.

Sorry if the terminology isn't correct, I'm no sparks!

Not many are.

 

[steptoe]

a G4 and driver can be had for under a tenner easily enough,

best to use the correct driver for the LEDs if you really want to save money and have a decent lifespan,  hth

 

[redisblue]

Thanks,

I'm going to explore this a little further if that's ok.

Wrong I know but I want to post a link

Except that I cant till 10 posts 

I am now looking at trying to do away with the transformers completely

I have seen (all be it from China  ) some at 4.5w 220v, I would post a but can't till 10 posts....

 

[redisblue]

I have a listing number (ebay)

Because I'm not allowed to post a link!

201156034340

There is a drop down to choose voltage 12v DC.......or 200v AC

Would you take this to mean that no transformer is needed.

This is proving to be quite a challenge!!

Thanks

Just noticed, these are 5w.

I looked at similar which were 4.5w

 

[Lurch]

G4 lampholders aren't generally rated for anything more than SELV (so definitely not 230V). They aren't much cop at 12V TBH. There is also the wiring of the fittings, that is probably geared for 12V (although most light fittings are that poorly wired internally it is often hard to tell what voltage the manufacturers expect you to use).

So if you are doing away with the transformer then you will need lampholders replacing and the fitting rewiring.

It annoys me when some of these Chinese manufacturers start to make things that are non-standard, these things then slowly creep into mainstream products. I was looking at a unit the other day with a USB socket on the side, except it didn't actually do USB, it was video, audio and 12VDC.

 

[redisblue]

OK, thanks,

That's one more question answered,

I guess my way forward is to replace the transformers to go from 240v AC to 12v DC

I have found some with a rating from .5w -12w so they should be perfect!.......fingers crossed!

Interesting thread, thanks for your help.