Power (AC/DC) and Low-voltage Wiring

Alternating current (AC) is the form in which businesses and residences receive their supply of electricity. Direct current (DC), on the other hand, comes from battery sources, bridge rectifiers, solar panels and other sources. Low-voltage wiring is electrical wiring that does not carry the same current as the power outlets, fixtures and switches in a home. Low voltage items include telephones, voltage speakers and television cable.

Problem: LED’s are DC devices. When the AC feed is converted to DC, the constant conversion of AC power supply can cause the formation of electric fields. Furthermore, if these loads are dimmed, the disruptive electric fields are further augmented. Low voltage devices are sensitive to electrical noise and electric fields. These disruptive fields can lead to audible buzzing sounds and visible or non-visible flicker that can contribute to headaches and anxiety.

Possible Solutions:

• Provide digital wiring which forms a single connection of all control devices, resulting in the reduction of wire usage
• Sheathing of wires with special shielding can reduce disruptive frequencies
• Eliminate AC feed to the driver and change to DC converters for building lighting
• Provide a system that offers a variety of light levels to dim to so that the light levels can correspond with your state of wellbeing