First time LED DIYER gathering thoughts on all white panel(s)

[HiloReign]

Unfortunately, I'm VASTLY uneducated when it comes to using this multimeter. I may even be wrong.

I connected my red probe to the ohm (the horseshoe looking symbol) and black to COM. Simply unplug your driver, touch your probe tips accordingly (+ to +...) to the wires that are going to be powering LEDs. The way my multimeter works, if there's a problem with the device, it beeps. I confirmed this test by testing my smaller driver(for my mini veg light) first, with no beep. Obviously my multimeter beeped when hooked up to my bigger driver.

I'd greatly appreciate anyone who can chime in and correct a fool if need be...

If not, GL Fran, we'll figure this stupid meter out sooner or later...

EDIT: Also, I set the dial to the volume looking symbol. Sorry, I can't explain it but it is set to that option in the picture:

 

[guod]

Need a pic of your multimeter

 

[FranJan]

Thanks Guod and Hilo, mines the same except it's 200mA MAX Fused on positive.

 

[guod]

lets start slowly...

volume looking symbol > Continuity tester - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continuity_tester
put the probes together and you will hear a tone
don´t use this setting if there is any voltage on the testpoints

testing the Driver voltage:
set the switch to V- 200 on the right side. we can now test dc-voltage up to 200V
start your led-light and wait some minutes(warmup)
now bring the probes in contact with wires from the driver (ledside)
red probe to the + Wire(red), black probe...

multiply this number with your current 0.35A to get the real Power in watt

 

[guod]

some basics on youtube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBbgiBU96mM&list=PL4A0248AE2B0DF1A3

 

[FranJan]

OK I'll pull out the drivers tomorrow and give it a fresh go. Thanks Guod, I can't rep ya again it seems so I'll just say thanks again for being a friend.

 

[guod]

@Fran
something to remind before testing CC-Drivers!
https://www.rollitup.org/led-other-lighting/582315-m_evo_lution-sidemevo-all-roads-lead-3.html#post8326200
and stay save some drivers put out more then 60V

 

[PetFlora]

Should you decide it's over your head, consider something like this http://www.ledwholesalers.com/store/index.php?act=viewProd&productId=593 + 2-4 @ 2-3 bulb bathroom vanity light fixtures

I am using a version of this as supplemental lighting with my 3 yo UFO 90 B:R - 8:1

 

[FranJan]

According to the label I'm testing some drivers that output 80-130V DC 630mA CC with a max output of 90 watts so thanks for the reminder Guod. But first I got trimming duty this morning /.

Thanks for the suggestion Pet but not my style. More power to you though (you'll probably gonna need it ).

 

[guod]

But first I got trimming duty this morning /.

have also got out to upload the dogs...
[video=youtube;N8fwtkC5UJU]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8fwtkC5UJU&feature=fvwp&NR=1[/video]

 

[Bumping Spheda]

These look pretty cool for smallish supplemental satellites, imo.
http://www.shineretrofits.com/40-watt-self-ballasted-circular-induction-lamp-5000k-bulb-120v-e26-medium-base-50-000-hr-lamp-5-yr-warranty.html
Only available in 5000K atm, or 3000K if you order 100+.

 

[HiloReign]

Should you decide it's over your head, consider something like this http://www.ledwholesalers.com/store/index.php?act=viewProd&productId=593 + 2-4 @ 2-3 bulb bathroom vanity light fixtures

I am using a version of this as supplemental lighting with my 3 yo UFO 90 B:R - 8:1

View attachment 2449681

I appreciate your input PetFlora, but I too have the DIY bug...

My flowering panel is only out as long as I'm out that driver. A small taste of success with my tiny veg panel gave me an appetite fit for a barbarian!

These look pretty cool for smallish supplemental satellites, imo.
http://www.shineretrofits.com/40-watt-self-ballasted-circular-induction-lamp-5000k-bulb-120v-e26-medium-base-50-000-hr-lamp-5-yr-warranty.html
Only available in 5000K atm, or 3000K if you order 100+.

That would be totally cool for supplemental lighting.