Frequently asked questions
LEDs
What are LEDs?
LEDs are light emitting diodes. These are electronic components that convert electrical energy directly to light through the movement of electrons within the material of the diode. LEDs are important because due to their efficiency and low energy, they are beginning to replace most conventional light sources.
Why is LED technology classified as solid state lighting?
The term solid state lighting is used because the electronics produce light directly from solid materials in which the electrons are embedded. This is unlike other technologies, for example fluorescent technology, which requires agaseous discharge medium to initiate production of light.
What makes LEDs more robust than other light sources?
LEDs have no gases, filaments and no moving parts to fatigue. They provide light through a one-step process that takes place within the diode. There is no glass to break or screwed contacts to loosen.
How is light produced in an LED?
Light emitting diodes produce light by the movement of electrons between the two terminals of diode, which occur by a process called electroluminescence. When a light emitting diode is electrically connected, electrons start moving at the junction of the N-type and P-type semiconductors within the diode. When there is a jump over of electrons at the p-n junction, the electron loses a portion of its energy. In regular diodes this energy loss is in the form of heat. However, in LEDs the specific type of N and P conductors produce photons (light) instead of heat. The amount of energy lost defines the color of light produced
What does SMD mean?
SMD means surface mounted diode. This is a better technology than the first generation DIP LEDs. The SMD typeLEDs are mounted on an aluminum substrate and enveloped in an epoxy resin.
What are the typical types of LED modules available in the market?