Specification Sheet
All product dimensions and specications are subject to change without prior notice.
What is LED Lighting?
A Guide to LED Lighting
LED (light emitting diode) is a semiconductor diode formed by creating
a (+)/(-) junction between materials. Upon applying a forward voltage
the two meet at the junction and energy is released. This energy is in
the form of light and heat.
Does LED get hot?
Yes. Unlike traditional light sources the heat generated by a LED is not radiated from the
surface. The heat is generated at the (+)/(-) junction. This temperature typically ranges from
35°C (95°F) to 65°C (149°F) depending on the LED being used. It is extremely important to keep
junction temperature as low as possible. A 14°C (25°F) increase in junction temperature over a
manufacturers recommendation can result in a 50% decrease in the life of the LED. Controlling the
heat is done via circuitry and heat-sinking within the xture design.
* The heat-sink is a metal contact (commonly aluminum) on the LED to absorb the heat.
Can LEDs be dimmed?
LEDs work on the principle of constant current (amperage). As the current increases the LED output increases (junction temperature also
increases). As the current decreases the LED output decreases. Because the junction temperature decreases when the LED is dimmed
the LED may actually experience longer life. Dimmable LED systems, however, are solely dependent on the driving mechanism and
circuit board construction. Consult manufacturer before attempting to dim.
How is LED life determined?
Recent guidelines have split LED life into two categories: Useful Life and End of Life.
Useful life is determined at the point when the LED is emitting 70% of its original light output. LED
gradually dims over time. Therefore, the LED itself will continue to emit light well beyond the 70%
threshold. The end of the life is the point when the LED fails to emit light. Some manufacturers
advertise 25, 50, or even 100,000 hours of life without further dening the number. Consult
manufacturer to determine if the number advertised is the useful life or end of life.
Good vs. bad LED suppliers
Currently there are around 10 major, well-known light emitting diode manufacturers. These manufacturers take all precautions necessary
to create high quality LEDs. Static/dust free clean rooms, the use of high grade phosphors and resins, controlled humidity/environment
are all factors among many that can aect LED production. In addition, proper binning (grouping of LEDs based on similar parameters)
ensures each and every shipment of LED is the same. Low-end LED manufacturers do not take these issues or steps seriously and thus
inferior LEDs nd their way into the market. Many LED xture manufacturers will either highlight the fact they use a major supplier or will
furnish the information upon request.
What is IES data?
IES stands for Illuminating Engineering Society. They are the recognized technical authority on illumination. The IES sets
forth standards and procedures for approved testing laboratories to follow when analyzing luminaires. These standards
and procedures are used to produce accurate measurements of luminaire characteristics such as: luminous ux, electrical
power, luminous intensity distribution, chromaticity and other photometric data. All Tresco IES data in the following pages
was performed by a certied testing laboratory and to the appropriate IES Standard.
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