UL Class 1 vs. Class 2 LED Drivers: Key Differences

This article delves into the distinctions between UL Class 1 and UL Class 2 LED drivers, highlighting the key factors to consider when selecting the right driver for your application. When choosing an LED driver, you should think about things like:

• Type of LED driver (constant current or constant voltage)
• Maximum wattage
• Dimming capabilities
• Power Factor (aiming for a value between 0 and 1)
• UL Class (1 or 2)

Let’s break down the specifics of UL Class 1 and UL Class 2 drivers.

UL Class 2 Driver

• Standard Compliance: Adheres to the UL1310 standard.
• Safety: The output is designed to be safe to touch.
• Protection: Doesn’t typically require extensive safety protection at the LED or luminaire level.
• Risk Mitigation: Minimizes the risk of fire or electric shock.
• Operating Limits: UL Class 2 drivers operate within these safety parameters:
  • < 60 Volts (in dry environments)
  • < 30 Volts (in wet environments)
  • < 5 Amps
  • < 100 Watts

Because of these limitations, there’s a constraint on the number of LEDs a Class 2 driver can power.

UL Class 1 Driver

• High Voltage Support: Designed to handle higher voltage outputs.
• Safety Requirements: Unlike Class 2, Class 1 drivers necessitate safety protection measures.
• LED Capacity: A Class 1 driver can typically support a greater number of LEDs compared to a Class 2 driver.