8 Common Misconceptions About DOB LED Lights

DOB (Driver-on-Board) LED lights, also known as driverless LED lights, have been widely adopted in recent years, gaining popularity for their numerous advantages. By miniaturizing and placing the driver directly on the same circuit board as the LEDs, DOB LED lights offer a more compact, lightweight, and cost-effective lighting solution.

However, despite their growing popularity, several misconceptions persist. In this blog post, we will debunk the top 8 myths surrounding DOB LED lights.

What are DOB LED lights?

DOB LED lights, short for Driver on Board LED lights, integrate the driver directly onto the LED module. They are also known as "Driverless LED lights."

Normal LED lights require a separate driver, which essentially serves as a power supply unit regulating the current delivered to the LEDs. DOB LEDs have the driver built directly onto the circuit board within the light fixture itself. This compact design eliminates the need for a separate driver, resulting in a smaller size, easier installation, and even better performance.

However, DOB LED lights also have downsides. While they work well for many applications, very high-powered LED lights might require separate drivers for optimal heat management and performance.

Common Misconceptions About DOB LED Lights

Myth 1: DOB LEDs Are Expensive

One common misconception about DOB LED lights is that they are expensive compared to conventional LED lighting solutions. However, this is not necessarily true. DOB lighting is a cost-effective lighting solution because it doesn’t require additional components for the driver. Additionally, energy savings and reduced maintenance needs of DOB lights translate to significant cost savings over their lifespan.

Myth 2: DOB LEDs Are Less Reliable

Maybe you’ve heard whispers about DOB LEDs being less reliable. In fact, driverless LED lights are engineered to be highly reliable and durable. By integrating the driver onto the circuit board, DOB LEDs reduce potential points of failure and enhance overall stability. Moreover, reputable LED lighting manufacturers use high-quality components in their DOB LED products, and these solutions have passed rigorous testing and certification requirements. This ensures the reliability of DOB LED lights, so there's no need to worry about their reliability.

Myth 3: DOB LEDs Sacrifice Light Quality

DOB LED fixtures also offer high-quality lighting with a range of color temperatures and high CRI. For example, our FL51 LED flood light is available in 3000K, 4000K, and 5000K color temperatures, allowing you to choose from warm, inviting hues to cool, crisp illumination. Additionally, these DOB LED lights boast a color rendering index (CRI) of up to 80, ensuring vibrant and true-to-life color rendition.

Myth 4: DOB LED Lights Are Not Energy Efficient

Actually, DOB LED lights have high energy efficiency. With fewer connections between power sources and wires, DOB LEDs minimize energy loss, achieving power efficiency up to or even above 99%. This translates to substantial savings over time. The savings not only help to lower electricity bills but also reduce carbon footprint.

Myth 5: DOB LEDs Overheat Easily

All LED lights generate some heat, and DOB LEDs are no exception. While they might manage heat better, high-powered DOB lights can still produce noticeable heat. However, it doesn’t mean DOB LEDs overheat easily. Since the driver is located directly next to the LEDs in a DOB design, there’s less distance for electricity to travel. This minimizes power loss that can be converted into heat. To further minimize the risk of overheating, select DOB LEDs with appropriate wattage and heat sinks for heat dissipation.

Myth 6: DOB LEDs Are Complex to Install

In these cases, the complexity of installation lies in the fixture itself, not in whether the technology is DOB or not. However, DOB LED lights are easier to install as they are smaller and lighter than regular LED lighting fixtures, especially in tight spaces.

Myth 7: DOB LED Lights Are Not Suitable for Outdoor Use

Contrary to the misconception, DOB LED lights are also suitable for outdoor use. These outdoor-rated DOB LED fixtures feature robust housings, sealed components, and advanced thermal management systems, ensuring durability even in challenging environments.

For example, our ST58 streetlight is a perfect solution for outdoor use. IP66 and IK10 ratings provide strong protection from water, dust, and impact. Its robust finned structure offers excellent heat dissipation and strong resistance to wind.

Myth 8: DOB LEDs Lack Customization Options

Actually, DOB LED lights also come with a high degree of customization and flexibility. LED lighting manufacturers, like AGC Lighting, provide various color temperatures, wattages, beam angles, and CCT options to suit diverse needs. This allows for tailored lighting solutions that cater to the specific needs and preferences of each project or application.

We provide a wide range of LED lights with DOB technology. From high bays, flood lights, to streetlights, you can find the perfect fit for your needs.

Contact us for a free consultation