The LED Lighting Revolution
The incandescent light bulb truly did revolutionize the world. Light Emitting Diodes, popularly known as LED lights, are revolutionizing the lighting industry. LEDs are found in all kinds of electronic devices and have many functions.
An LED is a solid-state semiconductor device that converts electrical energy directly into light. The semiconductor is comprised of two regions. The p-region contains positive electrical charges while the n-region contains negative electrical charges. When voltage is applied and the current begins to flow, the electrons move across the n region into the p region. The process of the electron moving through the p-n junction releases energy. The dispersion of this energy produces photons with visible wavelengths.
LED chips produce light from the semiconductor. The semiconductor is built onto a heat conduction material and is typically covered by a lens. A heat sink is very important; it allows the bulb to cool, through heat transfer by conduction.
Similar to fluorescent ballasts, LED drivers regulate a proper voltage to the bulb. Yes, all LED bulbs need a driver and most have one build into the base of the lamp. LED light bulbs will maximize light output because of their focused beams.
Remember when you are looking for the perfect LED you need to focus on lumens, (NOT WATTS) and the kelvin temperature of the lamp or fixture. We recommend buying just a few to test in certain applications – we’ll help you find the right LED.
Investing in LED technology is one of the easiest ways for a business or home to save money and see a return on their investment. LEDs are 80 percent more efficient in converting energy to light than an incandescent. This means you can use a bulb that uses 80 percent fewer watts and still have the same amount of light. You instantly see the savings on that energy bill.
LEDs also have an average life span that is far superior to any other bulb. For a business or home, this means you no longer have to pay someone to change a light bulb and for a lighting distributor this means less repeat business. LEDs do last 20 times longer than the standard lamp and you will not have to buy as many light bulbs.
Originally published Nov. 22, 2014 and updated Oct. 1, 2016.