RGB controller spec sheet, what do the watts mean?
Posted: Wed Jul 01, 2026 2:00 am
Sign client wants color-changing logo, 5 meters of WS2812B RGB strip. Looking at controllers.
Datasheets confuse me:
Or should I add 20% safety, meaning I need 110W+ controller? Or does "100W" already include safety margin?
Sign veterans: what derating do you actually use? Lost one PSU last month, suspicious it was running at 95% load 24/7.
Datasheets confuse me:
- Controller says "100W max load"
- Strip says "18W/meter at full white"
Or should I add 20% safety, meaning I need 110W+ controller? Or does "100W" already include safety margin?
Sign veterans: what derating do you actually use? Lost one PSU last month, suspicious it was running at 95% load 24/7.