What is the difference between LED Drivers and Transformers?

What is the difference between LED Drivers and Transformers?

While both LED drivers and electronic transformers are used in lighting systems, they vary in design and used for different type of lighting technologies.

Electronic transformers are designed for use with more legacy low-voltage halogen and incandescent lighting systems. They transform standard household voltage (120V or 240V) to the lower voltage (typically 12V or 24V) required by these types of lighting. Low-voltage halogen and incandescent track and decorative lighting are other common applications. Electronic transformers are not typically designed for use with LEDs, as LEDs usually operate on low-voltage DC power and may not compatible with the voltage waveform produced by electronic transformers.

LEDs on the other hand have a more unique electrical characteristic, typically requiring an LED driver that controls both voltage and current to maintain desired luminosity and prevent overheating. They are designed to work with low-voltage DC (direct current) power that LEDs typically require. LEDs require a specific and stable current to operate efficiently. When upgrading lighting systems to LED, it's important to use LED drivers compatible with the specific LEDs being used.