High LED drive currents with low stack voltages create efficiency challenges (MAGAZINE)

In the relatively short life of the LED-based solid-state lighting (SSL) industry, there has been a lot of buzz about a system-level solution or design. This conceptual solution requires an optimization of disparate disciplines or technologies including LED components, thermal design elements, optics, and driver electronics. Only recently has the multidisciplinary systems approach begun to take hold as experts in each area deliver optimized subsystems. But obstacles remain. For example, brighter LEDs that can be driven at higher current levels create power efficiency challenges in the driver electronics. Driver designs and LED enhancements must evolve together to deliver efficient luminaires.

Over the last ten years LED manufacturers have increased the efficacy of LEDs at a rapid pace. SSL solutions were not as cost effective as existing technologies and LED manufacturers were focused on lumens per watt, or even better, lumens per dollar.

++++++

This article was published in the February 2011 issue of LEDs Magazine. To read the full version of this article, please visit our magazine page, where you can download FREE electronic PDF versions of all issues of LEDs Magazine. You can also request a print copy of LEDs Magazine (available by paid subscription) and sign up for our free weekly email newsletter.