Hey RapidLED, ...why?

So, I was just randomly on RapidLeds website and while browsing their 100 Watt Cree cxb kit, I noticed something very strange. Down in the specs it explains that this kit includes an HLG-185H-C1400 driver with it. This is a driver capable of running twice the amount of cobs. I don't really understand what the reason for this is when a 120 or even the 100 could have been used but for some reason they use this driver. From my understanding, when using this low of voltage of the max this driver uses, it becomes quite a bit less efficient and gives you a lot less pa. I thought this was very strange and wondered if anyone else had seen this?

I would crank that thing up and call it a 150w kit. Pretty sure meanwells reach max efficiency around 60% load

Boatguy said:

I would crank that thing up and call it a 150w kit. Pretty sure meanwells reach max efficiency around 60% load

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You mean 200w? I know for a fact you can put 4 CXB 3590/3070's on the HLG-185H-C-1400B and it runs perfectly.

Airwalker16 said:

You mean 200w?

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I think those heatsinks are only good up to 75w.

Boatguy said:

I think those heatsinks are only good up to 75w.

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So use 4 cobs and heatsinks... You're missing the point. Why did t they use a 10w driver? HLG-100-36 or LRS-100-36

Boatguy said:

I would crank that thing up and call it a 150w kit. Pretty sure meanwells reach max efficiency around 60% load

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Or spend another $50 and get 210 watts.

1212ham said:

Or spend another $50 and get 210 watts.

Model 2VL

This LED light fixture features Bridgelux Vero29 COBs and a Meanwell driver. Remote driver placement helps with managing heat and custom color temperatures are available. Innovative design for covering up to 6 square feet and small grow areas.

timbergrowlights.com

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Rapid's prices on diy are alittle silly.

efficiency wise a HLG 185 at 60% should be halfway comparable to a HLG 100 at 100.
the smaller drivers never reach a real high efficiency, even maxed out.

they maybe went that route as they bought them in bulk for a good price and a driver with headroom will last longer and make them less headaches over time?
especially on 120V where thy tend to run hoter.

i mean there is really a rule out in the world to not max out your led driver if you want lifetime, stay 20% below.