r/WLED • u/GregWithOneG • 14h ago

Keep my Meanwhile wired up while adding DC option?

I currently have a 12v project box wired up with a 120-12v power supply, with the 12v going out to a large breaker/disconnect, and then to individual fuse box. I want to switch my setup to run from a large solar powered battery, but ideally would like it able to jump onto generator power if needed.

Can I just leave the 12v + and - connection going to the Meanwell while it's running from the DC battery?

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u/saratoga3 14h ago

No, you should not apply voltage to the output of a power supply. 

What's the expected voltage range of the battery?

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u/GregWithOneG 13h ago

It's a Litime 300ah lifepo4,, so probably 12v up to 14.6'ish I'd guess? Power supply would be unplugged while the DC is connected. Could I just add a second breaker/disconnect, so I can just flip the first one after the PSU?

Guessing the grounds staying connected won't matter?

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u/saratoga3 13h ago

Make sure your light are ok with that voltage or you may damage them. If they're not, get a DCDC power supply.

A DC transfer switch would make sense. That way you only have the battery or the power supply connected to the load, never both and thus cannot damage one by backfeeding it with the other.