LED

A LEDLED
Modern point light source (Light Emmitting Diode)
does not function very much differently than other light sources. Light is produce via an electrical discharge between and anode and an cathode with the sole difference that this takes place within in a solid body and not in a gas filled environment.

The energy efficiency of an LED light source is significantly greater than that of an incandescent lamplamp
Lightsource such as an incandescent lamp, florescent tube, LED, etc..
or even a halogen lamphalogen lamp
A halogen lamp is an incandescent lamp with a tungsten filament contained within an inert gas and a small amount of a halogen such as iodine or bromine. The combination of the halogen gas and the tungsten filament produces a chemical reaction known as a halogen cycle (see below) that increases the lifetime of the bulb and prevents its darkening by redepositing tungsten from the inside of the bulb back onto the filament.
. This can lead to significant savings in operation. The LED is an optimal signaling device, it is great for illuminating small rooms and/or areas that are exposed to extreme temperatures and humidity. LEDs are point lights that permit them to focus their light outputlight output
Total lightoutput of a light source
unit of measurement: lumen (lm)
sign: Φ
to where the light actually needs to go. This is great for illuminating building facades. In combination with intelligent electronic components, LED installations can achieve an expected lifetime of up to 50 000 hours. This can decrease maintenance time and cost significantly.

The amount of available colors is still limited when compared to FlexFluor or cold cathode, but new technologies are making new colors possible as we speak.

Which characteristics are the most important for architectural projects?

• The exceptional long life expectancy of up to 50 000 hours.
• LEDs are maintenance free and are not susceptible to breakage
• LEDs are very small and therefore make delicate designs possible.
• The possibility of focused illumination or the possibility or working with light points.
• The ability to create awe inspiring visual effects with RGB LEDs and the corresponding
• controllers.

What components make up a LED module?

• LEDs are hooked up to 12V or 24V power supply, similar to low voltage florescent lights.
• For very small applications, NP Lighting has developed a special LEDLED
  Modern point light source (Light Emmitting Diode)
  system that permits you to string long chains of LED in line while using very small power supplies.

Can LEDs be used in exterior applications?

• Generaly speaking, yes!
• LEDs prefer cold environments are are not susceptible to moisture.
• LEDs are semi-conductors and as such are very sensitive to heat. Temperatures above 185˚F  will immediately destroy an LEDLED
  Modern point light source (Light Emmitting Diode)
  . Especially high power LEDs require extra cooling. Smaller LEDs only require a heat dissipating coating to cool them sufficiently.