Knowledge ·
Magnetic track systems explained
How low-voltage magnetic track works, where it outperforms mains track, and what to check before specifying it.
Magnetic track has moved from showroom novelty to a standard specification in retail and residential projects.
How it works
A slim aluminium profile carries a low-voltage contact strip, typically 48 V DC. Luminaires attach with magnets and take power through spring contacts. A central driver feeds the track.
Where it is strong
- Reconfiguration: modules move without tools and without an electrician.
- Clean ceilings: recessed and trimless profiles sit flush with the plaster.
- One system, many tools: spotlights, linear diffusers, grille modules and pendants share the same track.
What to check
- Driver capacity: sum the module wattages plus a margin of about 20%; long runs may need more than one feed.
- Voltage drop: on long runs keep the feed central or add feeds.
- Profile type: recessed profiles need ceiling depth and a plaster detail; surface and suspended profiles suit existing ceilings.
- Dimming: confirm whether the driver is fixed output, phase-cut, 0–10 V or DALI.
Typical layout
In shops, run tracks parallel to wall bays at roughly 1.0–1.5 m from the wall, plus a grid over central displays.