LED 101
A comprehensive guide to understanding LED lighting technology and terminology
LED
A Light Emitting Diode (LED) is a semiconductor device that converts electricity into light. Most white light LEDs are coated with phosphors to change the color characteristics of the emitted light.
LED Driver
LED drivers (also known as LED power supplies) are similar to ballasts for fluorescent lamps or transformers for low-voltage bulbs: they provide LEDs with the electricity they require to function and perform at their best.
LED Lighting Specifications
Beam Angle
The angular dimension of the cone of light from reflectorized lamps encompassing the central part of the beam out to the angle where intensity is 50% of maximum.
Color Temperature
Measured in Kelvin (K): 2700K = "warm white", 3000K = "soft white", 4000K = "cool white", 5000K = "natural white", 6500K = "daylight".
Color Rendering Index
CRI measures color accuracy. CRI>80 is very good, CRI>90 is excellent. CRI=100 equals natural sunlight!
Efficacy
The lamp's ability to convert electrical power to light output. Simply put, lumens/watts.
Lumens
The measure of the perceived power of light. Simply put, brightness!
TRIAC Dimmable
Designed for resistive loads like incandescent/halogen lights with wide compatibility.
Watts
Unit of electrical power indicating the rate of energy consumption.
Types of LED Light Fixtures
Chandelier
Multi-arm decorative ceiling fixture holding multiple bulbs.
Pendant
Hanging fixture with glass or diffuser opening facing down.
Flush Mount
Attached directly to ceiling with no gap between light and ceiling.
Semi Flush
Attaches with stem creating gap between fixture and ceiling.
Sconce
Decorative wall-mounted fixture holding candles or lights.
Recessed
Installed into ceiling or wall, flush with the surface.
Certifications
ETL
Recognized as an NRTL in the United States and, in a similar capacity, as a Testing Organization and Certifying Body in Canada by the Standards Council of Canada. A product bearing the ETL Listed Mark is determined to have met the minimum requirements of prescribed product safety standards.
UL
Is a global independent safety science company with more than a century of expertise innovating safety solutions from the public adoption of electricity to new breakthroughs in sustainability, renewable energy and nanotechnology.