What is a power supply?

What is a power supply and what is its role in advertising lighting?
As part of an effective marketing strategy, illuminated advertising plays a key role in attracting the attention of potential customers and effectively communicating the brand. A basic element of lighting systems in advertising, which often goes unnoticed, is the power supply. Its role is essential for the proper functioning of electronic devices, including lighting devices. Let's take a closer look at what a power supply is, what functions it performs and what types of it are used in advertising lighting.

Definition of a power supply
A power supply is an electrical device that converts input current (AC from the mains) to an output current of a specified voltage and current (usually DC), necessary to power various electronic devices. In advertising lighting, power supplies are used to supply energy at the appropriate level to LED modules, neon signs or other forms of lighting used in illuminated advertising.

Why is a power supply so important?
Stability: A power supply provides stable voltage and current, which is crucial for maintaining the long-term efficiency and safety of LED lighting and other lighting elements.
Protection: Protects electronic components from possible damage resulting from mains voltage instability.
Energy efficiency: Modern power supplies are highly energy efficient, which translates into lower energy costs and less environmental impact.
Durability: Properly selected power supplies help to maximize the service life of advertising lighting.
Types of power supplies used in advertising lighting
Linear power supplies: Although larger and heavier, they offer very stable and clean current output. They are used less and less often due to their size and lower energy efficiency.
Switched-mode power supplies: Lighter and more energy efficient, they dominate modern lighting installations. They have a wide range of input voltages and can be used in various conditions.
Programmable power supplies: Allows you to adjust the output parameters of the power supply, which is useful in applications requiring a specific lighting configuration.
Choosing the right power supply
When choosing a power supply for advertising lighting, it is important to consider several key factors:

Power: It must match the total power of the lighting elements of the advertisement.
Voltage and current: Must be in accordance with the specifications of the lighting elements used in advertising.

Environmental conditions: External power supplies should have appropriate certificates (e.g. IP67), providing protection against weather conditions.

Summary
The power supply in advertising lighting performs a basic but fundamental function. It not only ensures the efficiency and safety of the entire installation, but also contributes to extending its life and improving the physical image of the brand. Therefore, choosing the right power supply is as important as choosing the lighting elements themselves. It is worth consulting an expert when designing an advertising lighting system to get the best and most effective solutions tailored to individual advertising needs.