1. Manual Control: Each of the four channels can be operated manually in CW mode using a knob, and each knob is operated independently to control the output current of a specific channel. The LED controller also has a fifth knob (i.e. a “Global” knob) that enables one to adjust the output current of all the channels at the same time and with the same step size. Therefore, one can first set the intensities for the LED channels – independently – using the four (small) knobs, and then can increase/decrease the set intensities of all channels simultaneously using the “Global” knob.
In order to prevent LED damage due to ‘overdriving/overheating’, the maximum output current of each LED channel can be set individually, via the software provided with the LED controller, to match the current rating of the LED connected to the channel. 2. Software Control: The LED controller can also be operated via a Windows-based application software, provided with the device. In software control mode, each channel can be individually configured by the software to operate in one of the following three modes: a. Disable Mode: The channel is disabled, and its output is completely turned off. b. Normal Mode (or CW Mode): The output current is constant, which can be adjusted (using software) from 0mA to 1,200mA through the USB interface. c. Strobe Mode: A Pulse-Width-Modulated (or PWM) periodic strobe pattern is output from the channel, which can be activated by a software trigger. The strobe pattern may last indefinitely or for a preset number of cycles, depending on the software setting. The maximum frequency of the PWM strobe is 500Hz. The LED controller also has a DC output used to control a cooling fan, usually used to cool down a high-power LED. The LED controller’s software allows one to control the speed of the cooling fan, through a designated variable PWM signal output. |