Something you should know about LEDs

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Something you should know about LEDs

Introduction

A light-emitting diode, commonly known as LED, is a semiconductor light source that emits light when an electric current passes through it. LEDs are integral to various devices in our everyday lives, including LED lighting, LED displays, LED traffic lights, among others. This article aims to provide insight into the classification (types), advantages, and applications of LEDs.

Type of LEDs

The classification of LEDs mainly depends on the packaging of the LED chips, leading to various types such as COB (Chip on Board), SMD (Surface Mounted Device), MCOB (Multiple Chip on Board), and MCCOB (Multiple Chips and Cups on Board).

SMD LEDs are standalone chips mounted on a ceramic base, widely utilized in white LED lamps and LED strip lights. They have gained popularity in light industrial applications, including street lights, floodlights, and linear light fixtures.

COB LEDs consist of a high-powered chip mounted on a printed circuit board, allowing for enhanced thermal management. These are typically employed in LED downlights and tracking lights.

Besides SMD and COB, MCOB and MCCOB technologies have started to gain traction in the LED lighting applications. MCOB integrates multiple COB LEDs into a single chip, commonly used in LED bulbs and tubes. MCCOB, meanwhile, is frequently found in high bay fixtures and certain floodlights.

In summary, LEDs can be categorized based on both structure (i.e., SMD, COB, MCOB, and MCCOB) and power levels. They fall under three categories: Low-Power, Mid-Power, and High-Power. Power calculations involve forward voltage and drive current. For example, Lumileds LEDs with 5.8V consume roughly 0.7W at a current of 120 mA. Depending on different suppliers, classifications may vary slightly; for instance, Osram defines Low-Power as under 0.2W and High-Power as between 1.0W and 4.0W.

Advantages and disadvantages of SMD and COB LEDs.

SMD LEDs, the most common type in the market, are available in various sizes and are known for their efficiency, producing more lumens per watt. They spread a wider beam of light, requiring less material for heat sinks, making them economical in design.

Advantages of SMD LEDs

• SMDs are more lumens-efficient than COBs, generating greater light output per watt.
• Wider beam spread over larger areas, decreasing required heatsink materials, thus enhancing cost-effectiveness.
• Involve multiple chips which continue functioning even if one fails, ensuring higher reliability.
• Lightweight, promoting ease of automation in production and achieving better cost savings.
• Flexible design possibilities, suitable for various lamp constructions.
• Safety-rated for outdoor lighting due to low power consumption.

Disadvantages of SMD LEDs

The production process for SMDs is more expensive as the LEDs are machine-printed onto PCB boards.

COB LEDs consist of multiple LED chips forming a single lighting module, resembling a panel when lit. They also include a printed circuit board for optimal performance but require larger heat sinks to manage heat better.

Advantages of COB LEDs

• Cost-effective compared to other lighting technologies.
• Reliable due to strong electrical connections and resin coverings.
• Excellent lighting uniformity ideal for indoor applications.
• Simplified installation, reducing assembly costs.

Disadvantages of COB LEDs

• Requires larger heat sinks for proper heat dissipation, increasing costs.
• Tend to create glare due to concentrated light emission.
• Maintenance can be complicated as a failure in one chip affects the entire COB module.

Applications of SMD and COB LEDs

SMD LEDs are prevalent in outdoor settings, readily found in applications such as street lights, floodlights, high bay lights, canopy lights, and various linear lighting solutions.

COB LEDs serve in multiple roles, including street lighting, tracking illumination, downlights, spotlights, and low bay lighting solutions. Both types can be swapped between various lighting applications, with COB being more common in downlight situations and SMD in high bay and street applications.

Summary

In summary, while there are clear differences between SMD and COB LEDs, the choice ultimately depends on the specific lighting requirements. Whether for cost efficiency, brightness, or energy efficiency, each LED type presents unique benefits catering to various needs.

We hope this article provides clarity on the advantages of different LED types. For more information, explore our selection of China SMD LED supply and China smd led chip wholesale products available through Moonleds.