Mixed LED fV in Parallel strings

[3Watt]

Will it cause an imbalance in the strings if LED's with different forward voltage values are used.
I'm using two 60-48P's I already own. Once I get this all done I'm hoping I can control dawn/highnoon/dusk with by PMW.
I would need to make 2 parallell strings of 12 but I will be using Cree xpe, xpg and exotic deep reds. The exotics have a very low forward voltage of only 2.3v @ 700mA. And of course I'll be running them lower than that @ 600 mA per string which confuses me even farther.

Also, why don't you guys sell fuses with your holders?

[ReefLEDLights]

Will it cause an imbalance in the strings if LED's with different forward voltage values are used.
I'm using two 60-48P's I already own. Once I get this all done I'm hoping I can control dawn/highnoon/dusk with by PMW.
I would need to make 2 parallell strings of 12 but I will be using Cree xpe, xpg and exotic deep reds. The exotics have a very low forward voltage of only 2.3v @ 700mA. And of course I'll be running them lower than that @ 600 mA per string which confuses me even farther.

Also, why don't you guys sell fuses with your holders?


The fuses come with the holders and we offer extras via a drop down menu.

There are a lot of variables in balancing current in parallel strings. I would recommend adding a 1 ohm resistor to monitor the current between the strings. http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=5V6CFa_xKDI

Its best to keep different LEDs on different drivers especially given the max current and forward voltage difference of your LEDs.

That said there is nothing wrong with under driving LEDs and as long as the parallel strings have equal number of each LED you should be OK provided they are from the same lot.

Bill

[3Watt]

Thanks for the reply and trying to help me.

I will be using the resistors and fuses. I've actually ordered them from you already along with some other stuff I needed. Sorry for assuming the holder was sold separate of the fuses.

The more I read about parallel strings the more I think it won't work with what I want to do. Which really sucks because I didn't want to have to buy two more drivers. Not that I can't buy them but there's other hobby related things I'd like to use the $70 for LOL.