48V Triac Dimmable Driver

48V DC falls within the SELV voltage threshold under BS7671 (120V DC ripple-free maximum), provided it is supplied from a suitably isolated, safety-rated driver. SELV systems carry significantly reduced shock risk under dry conditions, but this is not zero risk. 48V strip should be installed by a competent person following current UK wiring regulations.

48V TRIAC Dimmable · Trailing-Edge · SELV Threshold · IP20 & IP67 · Free UK Delivery · Warranty per model

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Why choose 48V over 24V for dimmable installations?

48V strip carries half the current of 24V at the same wattage, which means voltage drop occurs at half the rate over the same distance. This allows single-feed runs up to 30 metres on 48V compared to 20 metres on 24V, reducing the number of drivers and feed points required in large installations.

• Runs under 10m: 24V is fine — simpler, wider product range.
• Runs 10–20m: Either voltage works, but 48V gives more headroom.
• Runs 20–30m: 48V required for single-feed without visible brightness drop.
• Runs 30–50m: 48V with dual feed from both ends.

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How do you size a 48V TRIAC dimmable driver?

Multiply strip wattage per metre by total length, then add 20 percent headroom. For example, 10 metres at 14.4W/m equals 144W — select a minimum 173W driver. Always round up to the next available driver size.

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What dimmer should you pair with a 48V TRIAC driver?

Use a trailing-edge dimmer for smooth, flicker-free operation. Leading-edge dimmers frequently cause flicker and buzzing with LED drivers. The trailing-edge upgrade costs approximately £15 and resolves most dimming issues. Check the driver datasheet for confirmed compatible dimmer models.

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Can you use a 48V TRIAC driver with RGBW strip?

No. RGB and RGBW strips require a non-dimmable constant voltage driver paired with a dedicated RGB controller. Using a dimmable driver with RGBW strip causes flicker, colour shift, and premature failure. This rule applies to all voltages.

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Frequently asked questions — 48V TRIAC dimmable drivers

• Is 48V safe to install?
  • 48V DC falls within the SELV voltage threshold under BS7671 when supplied from a suitably isolated driver. SELV carries significantly reduced shock risk under dry conditions but not zero risk. Installation should be carried out by a competent person.
• Can I mix 48V and 24V on the same installation?
  • Not on the same driver or circuit. Each voltage requires its own dedicated driver. Keep 48V and 24V circuits physically separated.
• What IP rating for bathroom use?
  • IP67 minimum for the driver. The driver should be located outside bathroom wet zones where possible. IP65 is not suitable for UK bathroom wet zones.
• How many strips can I run from one 48V driver?
  • As many as the driver wattage supports. Wire all runs in parallel. Total wattage must not exceed 80% of driver capacity.
• Does ATOM LED stock 48V TRIAC drivers?
  • Yes. All drivers are held in UK stock at our Telford warehouse. Free delivery. Warranty varies by driver model. Check the individual product page for the exact warranty period. Call 01952 370028 for sizing help.
• What is the maximum dimming range?
  • Most ATOM LED 48V TRIAC drivers dim from 0 to 100% when paired with a compatible trailing-edge dimmer. Some drivers have a minimum load requirement — check the datasheet.
• Can I use a 48V driver outdoors?
  • Only IP67-rated drivers. Mount in a weatherproof enclosure or locate indoors with cabling run to the outdoor strip.
• Where can I get help choosing the right driver?
  • Call 01952 370028 or email operations@atomled.co.uk. Technical team available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

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Why choose ATOM LED?

UK stock, free delivery, warranty per driver model, technical support Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. Call 01952 370028 or email operations@atomled.co.uk.

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Last reviewed: March 2026 — ATOM LED technical team, Telford, Shropshire. Specifications current as of 2026.

🏭 UK LED specialist, Telford, Shropshire  ·  ☎️ 01952 370028  ·  🚚 Free UK delivery on 97% of products