How do dimmable LED panels work？

    Dimmable LED panels function by adjusting the amount of current supplied to the LEDs, which in turn controls their brightness. Here's a detailed explanation of how they work:

1. LED Basics: LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) emit light when an electric current flows through them. The brightness of an LED is directly related to the amount of current passing through it.

2. Dimming Methods:

There are two main methods used to dim LED panels

   - Pulse Width Modulation (PWM): This method rapidly switches the LED on and off at a high frequency. By varying the ratio of the on-time to the off-time (duty cycle), the perceived brightness of the LED can be adjusted. For example, if the LED is on for 50% of the time and off for 50% of the time, it will appear half as bright as when it is on all the time.

   - Analog Dimming: This method involves directly reducing the current flowing through the LED. Lower current results in lower light output. However, this method is less common than PWM because it can affect the color temperature and efficiency of the LEDs.

3. Dimmable Drivers: LED panels are typically equipped with dimmable drivers. These drivers regulate the power supplied to the LEDs and support dimming. There are different types of dimmable drivers, such as:

   - TRIAC Dimmers: These are commonly used in residential settings and work by chopping the AC voltage to reduce the power supplied to the LEDs.

   - 0-10V Dimmers: These use a low-voltage control signal (0 to 10 volts) to adjust the brightness. The driver interprets this signal and adjusts the current or PWM duty cycle accordingly.

   - Digital Dimmers: These use digital control signals (such as DALI, DMX, or Zigbee) to provide more precise and programmable dimming options.

    Not all LED panels are inherently dimmable. They must be designed with compatible drivers and circuitry. Additionally, the dimmer switch used must be compatible with the type of dimmable driver in the LED panel. Besides, dimming reduces the heat generated by the LEDs, which can prolong their lifespan. Effective heat dissipation mechanisms are crucial in maintaining performance and longevity.

    In a word, by using these methods and components, dimmable LED panels provide flexible lighting solutions suitable for various applications, from residential to commercial and industrial settings.