Ecopac ECP-801-12A – 1-10V & Push Dimmer LED Interface

ECP-801-12A Technical Data

Part number ECP-801-12A

Specifications ECP-801-12A

Input Voltage 12-36VDC
Output Current max 12A@12~24VDC, max 8A@36VDC
Output Power 1x(144-288)W
Remarks Constant Voltage
Size 145 x 46.5 x 16 mm
IP Rating IP20

Safety & Warning

Do not install with power applied to device
Do not expose the device to moisture

Operation

This product supports both 1-10V control and push dimmer function while connected with 1-10V signal and AC push switches respectively.

Push Dimmer

• Click the button to switch ON/OFF
• Press and hold down the button to increase or decrease light intensity to desired level and release it, then repeat the operation to adjust light intensity to opposite direction.
Note: DO NOT connect and use 1-10V and Push Dimmer simultaneously, just choose either of them to control.

PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) LED dimming regulates brightness by rapidly switching the LED driver on and off. By varying the ratio of “ON” time to “OFF” time—the duty cycle—it changes the average power delivered, making the light appear dimmer to the human eye while maintaining the correct colour temperature.

How PWM Dimming Interfaces Work

PWM dimming interfaces are designed to translate a control signal (like a dial, a smart app command, or a digital protocol) into the rapid on/off pulsing required by the LEDs. Here is how the interface systems function:

The Control Signal: The interface receives an input, which can be analog (e.g., a 0-10V signal, or a potentiometer) or digital (e.g., DALI, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi).

Signal Conversion: A microcontroller or specialized driver circuit decodes this command and generates a square-wave PWM signal at a specific frequency (commonly ranging from a few hundred Hz to over 20 kHz).

The Output: The PWM signal drives a switching component—often an N-channel MOSFET or a Shunt-FET—that rapidly opens and closes the main circuit powering the LEDs.

Important Technical Considerations

Duty Cycle vs. Perceived Brightness: Human eye perception of brightness is non-linear and follows a logarithmic curve. For example, a 10% PWM duty cycle will look much brighter than 10% of the maximum output. Advanced dimming interfaces compensate for this by applying exponential dimming curves to make the brightness adjustments appear smooth.

Flicker and Eye Strain: If the PWM frequency is too low, the rapid flickering can cause eye strain or headaches, and it may produce visible bands in photos or video recordings. High-quality dimmers use frequencies of 1,000 Hz to 20 kHz or higher to eliminate visible flicker and audible buzzing.

Analog vs. PWM Dimming: Unlike PWM (which turns the light on and off at full current), analog dimming changes the actual DC current flowing through the LED. While analog dimming is good for reducing noise, it can result in colour shifts at very low brightness levels. PWM preserves the correct colour output.

Ecopac (specifically Ecopac Power) is a leading UK distributor and manufacturer of power supplies and LED drivers, established in 1995. Based in Buckinghamshire, they are a major partner for MEAN WELL and offer over 13,000 products, ranging from 1W to 30,000W, catering to industrial, medical, and lighting sectors. They also produce their own range of drivers.

Key Aspects of Ecopac Power:

Product Range: Offers AC-DC power supplies, DC/DC converters, and LED drivers in various formats, including open-frame, DIN rail, chassis mount, and enclosed.

Brand Portfolio: In addition to their own Ecopac branded products, they distribute MEAN WELL, Vox Power, Eaglerise, and EUCHIPS.

Specialization: Focuses heavily on lighting solutions, including ELED Dimmable Drivers, ECP Low Profile/Slimline Drivers, and ECPE Plug Top units.

Target Industries: Medical, military, telecommunications, automation, and security.