From your TV set to the humongous size displayed on public squares and billboards that capture your attention while on the go, LEDs have nearly taken over our world.
Have you ever wondered how these LED lights work their magic? Unlike conventional filament-based bulbs or other light alternatives LEDs work on entirely different principles. Not only that LEDs are more efficient and feasible options than their counterparts.
If you’re also looking for an efficient and feasible lighting option to incorporate in your electronic device you need to understand the fundamentals of LED technology.
So here we are empowering you with the basics of LED lighting electronic components through this article.
Operation and Principles of LEDs:
LED is an abbreviation of Light Emitting Diodes. Diodes are basically semiconductor devices. These semiconductor devices operate on the principle of electroluminescence.
Electroluminescence is a phenomenon that occurs when the electric current is passed through the diode. Being the semiconductor, the diode allows the flow of electricity resulting from the movement of electrons. When these electrons are combined with the electron holes within the semiconductor, energy is released in the form of photons (packets of light) emitting light.
This entire process generates minimal heat, making LED light electronics highly efficient, compared to other electronic devices.
Types of LEDs and Their Characteristics:
Types of LED Lights |
Their Characteristics & Applications |
|
Standard LEDs |
These are the most common types of LED. They emit light in a single color also called monochromatic LED, such as red, green, blue, or white. Application- indicators, signage, and decorative lighting. |
|
High-Power LEDs |
These LEDs are designed to emit higher levels of light output and are commonly used in devices that are used in places where intense illumination is required. Application- streetlights and automotive headlights. |
|
SMD LEDs: |
Surface Mount Device (SMD) LEDs are compact and can be easily mounted on printed circuit boards (PCBs). Application- electronics and lighting fixtures where space is limited. |
|
RGB LEDs: |
Red, Green, and Blue (RGB) LEDs contain multiple LED chips of different colors in a single package. By adjusting the intensity of each color, they can produce a wide range of colors. Application- decorative color-changing lighting and displays. |
|
COB LEDs |
Chip-on-board (COB) LEDs consist of multiple LED chips mounted directly onto a substrate. These provide high luminous flux and uniform illumination. Application- commercial and industrial lighting fixtures. |
What are the Basic Component of LED Lights?
The basic components of LED lights include LED chips, heat sinks, driver circuits, and optical components.
Role of Each Basic Component of LED Lights:
- LED Chip: The heart of an LED is an LED chip. It is what emits light when electricity is passed through it.
- Heat Sink: The sole purpose of a heat sink is to dissipate the heat generated due to the flow of electricity through the diode. It thus, prevents overheating and ensures the longevity of the device.
- Driver Circuit: Driver circuits regulate the voltage and current supplied to the LED, ensuring stable and smooth operation and protecting the devices from any potential voltage-related damage.
- Optical Components: Lenses and reflectors are the optical components that direct and focus the light emitted by the LED. Thus, improves efficiency and control.
Achieving White Light from the LEDs
To your surprise, the white LED lights that you enjoy in your daily life are not inherently emitted by LEDs in white color. In fact, LEDs cannot emit white light. They are made to emit white light by different methods.
The LEDs are originally made in single colors based on the selection of different semiconductor materials. LEDs emit nearly monochromatic light which makes them highly efficient for colored light applications such as traffic lights, exit signs, etc.. Different methods like phosphor conversion, color-mixed systems, and a hybrid method are used to achieve white light in various LED light
Practical Applications of LED Lighting Systems:
LED lighting systems are widely used in various industries and applications, including:
- Residential lighting (bulbs, fixtures)
- Commercial and industrial lighting (office buildings, warehouses)
- Automotive lighting (headlights, taillights)
- Street lighting
- Signage and displays
Conclusion:
A deep understanding of the basics of LED used in electronic components is essential for designing, implementing, and troubleshooting LED lighting systems. By having good knowledge about the principles of LED operation, its types, and the role of each of its components, designers create efficient and reliable lighting solutions for various applications further contributing to energy savings and environmental sustainability.
Design innovative electronic devices today with Simple Comp Hungary! Here you’ll get a vast selection of cutting-edge semiconductors, electronic components, and everything in between from over 200 top brands.