CMB-24D VS CMB-16D-QC

[rgardner518]

I want to start by saying, have looked all over and cannot find my answer.

 

So my question is, If I'm using dumb RGB's, Which would you use? The new CMB-24D or the CMB-16D-QC.

 

I have the CMB-16D-QC in a encloser with its own power supply. This can do 5 sets of of dumb RGB's. But the CMB-24D can do 8 sets of dumb RGB's. So for $10 more, I can get 3 more dumb ribbons on each board.

 

So what type of power supply does the CMB-24D need require?

 

Please help, and explain this in stupid terms for me! lol,

 

Thanks...

Edited July 3, 2013 by ny_yankee_25

[Ken Benedict]

Short answer:

In my opinion, go with the biggest capacity PS that will still fit into your enclosure.

 

 

Long answer:

You still have to do your math before you get an accurate answer; what do the LEDs need for power, etc.

Each channel is limited to 4 amps and each side of the DC board is limited to 30 amps. So whichever comes first is your limit.

If you spread the load evenly with one 30A PS, each channel can handle 1.24A, which is enough for one color of a 16 foot dumb strip.

Running two 30A PSs, you could get twice that, or 2.5A per channel.

 

When running at that capacity, your PS will get hot and may need external cooling.

I over spec the PS so I don't have to worry about heat. Yeah, I spent a few extra dollars, but I can sleep better at night.

 

This has been discussed in the forum, especially by member CLDKevin, who ran hot PSs with his great Halloween display.

 

See: http://forums.lightorama.com/index.php?/topic/21865-power-supplies/

 

and: http://forums.lightorama.com/index.php?/topic/21920-power-supplies/

 

and: http://forums.lightorama.com/index.php?/topic/15493-lor-dc-board-build/

 

and: http://forums.lightorama.com/index.php?/topic/22922-mount-cmb16d-power-supply-inside-enclosure/

 

and: http://forums.lightorama.com/index.php?/topic/19823-cmb16d-qc/

 

and: http://forums.lightorama.com/index.php?/topic/24910-dumb-rgb-strips-for-next-years-display-2013/

 

and finally: http://forums.lightorama.com/index.php?/topic/26642-best-way-to-run-dumb-strips/

Edited July 3, 2013 by Ken Benedict