How to select leading edge dimming or trailing edge dimming?
Time:2021-03-18 / Read:817What is ‘leading edge’?
Leading Edge Dimming (TRIAC dimming) utilizes a current that is turned off as the AC waveform begins, right after it crosses zero. Leading Edge Dimming is typically used with incandescent bulbs, and produces a rush of voltage every half cycle, resulting in a rush of current to the light source.
What is ‘trailing edge’?
Trailing Edge Dimming (electronic dimming) utilizes a current that is turned off as the AC waveform ends, right before it crosses zero. This type of dimming is typically used with electronic drivers, and does not result in a rush of voltage (and in turn, a rush of current) to the light source.
The differences between a three-point leading edge dimmer and a trailing edge dimmer are listed below:
Leading edge:
1.Cheaper and simpler
2.Provide high minimum load
3.Common in use but not in LED lighting circuits
Trailing edge:
1.More expensive and sophisticated
2.Provide low minimum load
3.Commonly used in low powered lighting circuits