TE - White Papers

Introduction While pronouncements of the death of incandescent lights are premature, their future is dimming as new technologies offer high efficiencies and lower energy consumption. Solid-state lighting technology, in particular, is quickly entering the lighting mainstream. Arguably the most prominent and nearest term solid-state lighting source suitable for general lighting is the ubiquitous LED, albeit a high-power version. Already the favored technology in such applications as signage, jumbo displays, and emergency lighting, these high-intensity LEDs are also finding use in interior accent and architectural lighting. At some time not too far off, LEDs will replace household incandescent lighting as the technology matures, costs decline, and energy-efficiency mandates are implemented. Making new lighting technologies more affordable and thereby enabling new applications falls into two main categories: Semiconductor processing: This category includes issues of both materials and fabrication. While outside the scope of this article, it must be mentioned as a key driver of commercial viability of solid-state lighting technology. As manufacturers solve fundamental materials problems, improve yields, and move to volume production, costs will decline. Packaging: Packaging the light source for its final application is the area that is directly affected by the lighting designer and can significantly affect long-term reliability, cost, and usability. Where an incandescent light and its fixture are relatively simple embodiments of the well-know Edison socket, LEDs present a whole set of different and more challenging issues. Since these LEDs are essentially point sources of light, new thermal, optical, and packaging/integration considerations come into play. High power densities make thermal management a critical part of the fixture design process. Some level of electronics drive circuitry is required to provide the required constant current source. With few exceptions, LEDs cannot be plugged directly into a normal AC line voltage source. Connectors and Solid-State Lighting Our concern here is with connector technology and the ways it can help (or hinder) making lighting more affordable and easier to apply and use. Connectors remain a critical part, but have too often been left to the end of the development cycle. This lack of foresight can result in fewer choices and higher costs (including cost of materials, cost of assembly, and cost of upkeep). Integrating connector selection into early design phases opens options, gives more choice, and often lowers costs. Not only is it important to consider connectors early in the design to gain the widest array of options, it's equally important to understand some of the basics of connector technology to

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