12V DC-DC regulator - suggestions please!

[down...2 greens]

I'm installing an LED strip in the saloon with a simple PWM motor speed controller as a dimmer - the setup seems to work fine when tested. The strip specifies a 12V supply so I'm wondering if it would be advisable to include a cheap 12v-12v converter to ensure the input doesn't exceed 12V (during battery charging etc)? Or would it be enough just to keep the dimmer a bit less than full bright? The strip is intended mostly as mood/courtesy lighting so I would expect to have it dimmed normally anyway.

If the converter is the way to go could someone link to a suitable example, because I'm baffled by the choice!? I did find some older threads on the subject but the links to eBay etc have all expired...

Thanks in advance

 

[Daverw]

Something like this?
Amazon.co.uk

 

[William_H]

I would suggest the controller should be fine on 15volts. However with 15v in the LEDs will also get 15v at full brightness. So best set for a lower maximum setting perhaps a resistor in series with the brightness controller. Or just discipline to reduce brightness when on charge. ol'will

 

[down...2 greens]

That regulator does look like it would do the trick OK, thanks for the suggestion (although maybe it's overkill given that the 5m strip came in at about 4 quid!)

I could just go with Will's idea and avoid having the brightness turned up full - in that case I suppose it would be wise to include a dedicated fuse rather than just rely on the switch panel protection....

 

[PaulRainbow]

Cheap LED strips often don't last long if subjected to charging voltages. 14+V through something that's meant for 12V isn't a great idea. At best, they get hot. I prefer to fit DC-DC converters. My own boat is 24V, but i fitted it with 12V LEDs and a DC-DC converter. The light work perfectly and you don't get fluctuating brightness due to voltage variations. Better quality LED lights often don't have these issues, as they have electronics built in.

This should be OK : DC-DC Step Down Power Module Voltmeter 4V-38V to 1.25V-36V 5A Buck Converter *UK | eBay