TROPO Series :: ROAL Living Energy
TROPO Series :: ROAL Living Energy
TROPO Series :: ROAL Living Energy
Introduction
This application note has been written to assist with selection of ROAL Tropo Series drivers. Since
there are many configurations of LED designs, care must be taken to ensure that the operation
window for the Tropo series is not violated. It is apparent that when the input of Tropo is dimmed
with a line voltage dimmer, the output current is adjusted. As the output current reduces, so does
the forward voltage of the LED(s) connected to the output. Care must be taken when selecting a
Tropo driver to ensure the output voltage is always within the operating voltage range. This includes
when being dimmed.
This application note will address the operation of Tropo drivers with respect to the output voltage
operation range.
It is suggested to review Application Note # 21, Line Voltage Dimming of Tropo Drivers, prior to this
application note.
Tropo drivers include 28 standard models. The output of the driver is constant current regulated to a
factory set point. The drivers also have a specified output voltage operating range that must be met
under all conditions, including when being dimmed. Figure 1 is a table that summarizes the models,
the output current setpoint and the operating voltage range for each model. This range is identical
for 120VAC and 240VAC drivers.
The Vout Min and Vout Max must be met under all conditions of the driver and LED assembly,
including when being dimmed and when the fixture is at maximum operating temperature.
Failure to meet this requirement may result in poor performance of the end product. Typically this will result
in some flicker at the low end of the dimming range. The Tropo driver and LED will not be damaged under a
low output voltage condition.
Tropo Application Note # 2
Tropo Drivers output voltage range
Unfortunately, most LED manufacturers do not provide detailed information regarding the forward voltage at
reduced currents and temperatures other then 25C. Therefore, laboratory measurements and calculations
should be made to ensure the minimum voltage is maintained under all anticipated operating conditions.
If an application does not meet the above requirements, contact Roal to discuss a modified standard product.
It is possible to modify the Tropo driver to operate at lower currents to permit a wide variety of possible
driver models.
In addition, if the application will utilize an LED chip assembly, consult the factory for possible drivers for the
application. There are a number of drivers already designed to operate with Bridgelux and Citizen LED chip
assemblies.
NOTE: SOME STANDARD MODELS ARE BUILT TO ORDER. PLEASE CONSULT THE FACTORY TO
CHECK AVAILABILITY.
Roal Electronics, S.p.A. may change product specifications and accordingly the information presented in this document. Customers are responsible for
their products and applications using Roal Electronics, S.p.A. products. Roal Electronics, S.p.A. assumes no liability from the use of its products outside
of specifications. No license is granted to any intellectual property rights by this document. ROAL ELECTRONICS, S.P.A. DISCLAIMS ALL
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF NONINFRINGEMENT, MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.