ADB’s new APS is the next generation of the company’s Advanced Power Supply, a dedicated power architecture specifically designed for LED airfield lighting circuits.

The product greatly reduces complexity in LED AGL, directly delivering a specialized Direct Current (DC) waveform that not only powers the LEDs in the lighting fixtures but also ensures it is at the desired level of intensity. APS significantly reduces energy costs, increases LED AGL efficiency and lifetime. Moreover, it does not consumer power when not in use, and is therefore one of the most energy-friendly power solutions.

Airports currently relying on 6.6 Amps LED airfield lighting circuits can reduce energy costs by more than 70% by moving to APS, while airports that switch from non-LED AGL to LED and deploy APS can enjoy more than 90% savings.

“Our first-generation APS has already proved popular with many airports around the world. The new APS incorporates several unique features including those requested by our customers,” said Christian Onselaere, CEO, ADB Group. “In addition to reducing infrastructure complexity, lowering energy costs and increasing fixture life, users can expect advanced control and monitoring capabilities.”

The addition of serial communication interfaces enables maintenance personnel to receive real-time system updates. This coupled with the new alarms and indicator displays, facilitate faster detection of technical issues and make troubleshooting easier. Features like automatic shut-off increase operator safety. Furthermore, the option to automate measurement of circuit insulation quality and mechanical improvements make the product easier to install, operate and maintain.

At present, LED AGL, powered by direct current, use specialized electronics to convert alternating current delivered by traditional lighting circuits. The required intensity is achieved with Constant Current Regulators (CCR) supplying varying current levels in the range of 2.8 amps to 6.6 amps. ADB’s Power APS architecture differs from traditional 6.6 Amps methods used to power and control the intensity of airfield lighting, it allows the re-use of existing AGL infrastructure and supports a full range of intensity step settings. The new Power APS supplies current in a 1KW or 2KW size with a maximum output of 2 amps. This reduces operating voltage and improves safety of maintenance personnel.