Driver on Board (DoB) refers to a type of light source where the driver (the electronic circuit that controls the power to the light source) is integrated directly into the housing of the light source itself, such as in LED lamps .
What does Driver on Board (DoB) mean?
- In a Driver on Board (DoB) configuration, the LED driver (the current regulator) is integrated onto the same printed circuit board (PCB) as the LEDs themselves. This means the driver is integrated into the lamp and not connected as a separate external component, as in traditional LED systems.
- The driver regulates the power supply to the LEDs to ensure they operate at the correct power, which is essential for long life and good performance of the LEDs.
Benefits of DoB:
- More compact design :
- Because the driver is on the same board as the LEDs, the lamps can be designed more compactly , which is especially useful in applications where space is at a premium.
- Better cooling :
- Because the driver and LEDs are close together, heat transfer can be improved. This can help extend the lamp's lifespan.
- Reduced chance of errors :
- Since the driver and LEDs are integrated as a single unit, there's less chance of connection problems between the driver and the LEDs. This can improve reliability.
- Cost-saving :
- For manufacturers, a DoB solution can be cost-effective because fewer components are required to produce the lamp. This can simplify production and potentially make it less expensive.
Disadvantages of DoB:
- Limited substitutability :
- In a DoB setup, the driver is not replaceable without replacing the entire light source, unlike systems where the driver is decoupled. This means that if the driver fails, the entire lamp must be replaced.
- Less flexibility :
- Because the driver is integrated into the design, there is less design flexibility for future modification or replacements.
- Heat problems :
- Under high load, the combined driver and LED setup can generate more heat, which can sometimes lead to overheating if cooling is not sufficient.
Driver on Board Applications:
- LED Bulbs : Mainly found in LED lighting , where the driver is built into the bulb to make installation easier and more space-saving.
- Lighting applications : DoB is often used in applications where compact and efficient lighting is required, such as in spotlights , recessed lighting , and outdoor lighting .
In short, Driver on Board (DoB) is a design concept for light sources where the driver is installed directly on the same board as the LED, resulting in a more compact, reliable and cost-efficient design.