UL, a global safety science organization, today announced the launch of its new Class P LED Driver Program. UL is the first Standards Development Organization to officially offer this type of program, giving luminaire suppliers and manufacturers of LED drivers increased flexibility in their supply chain.
The program defines evaluation and testing guidelines for standardized LED driver constructions and ratings, allowing luminaire manufacturers to source alternate LED drivers without having to recertify their products. By further addressing the temperature considerations of an LED luminaire system, the Class P LED Driver Program will allow luminaire manufactures greater flexibility in LED driver substitution.
Manufacturers can benefit from a flexible supply chain in multiple ways. End-product luminaire manufacturers using an LED driver certified under the program may source multiple LED drivers without the need to resubmit for UL testing and recertification. This helps ensure continuity in the supply chain if an LED driver manufacturer discontinues a part. Certification under this LED Driver Program also increases flexibility in cost, as manufacturers can search for less expensive alternative components without incurring recertification costs. Finally, this new program offers manufacturers the ability to provide their end users with multiple options for supply voltages, dimming, and other LED driver features.
