3011-SR0201H-AM LED Datasheet - PLCC-2 Package - Super Red - 580mcd @20mA - 120° Viewing Angle - English Technical Document

1. Product Overview

The 3011-SR0201H-AM is a high-performance, micro side-view LED designed primarily for space-constrained automotive interior lighting applications. It utilizes a PLCC-2 (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) surface-mount package, offering a compact footprint suitable for modern electronic assemblies. The device emits a Super Red light with a typical luminous intensity of 580 millicandelas (mcd) when driven at a standard forward current of 20 milliamperes (mA). A key feature is its wide 120-degree viewing angle, ensuring uniform light distribution. The component is qualified to the stringent AEC-Q101 standard for automotive-grade discrete semiconductors, guaranteeing reliability under harsh automotive environmental conditions. It is also compliant with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) and REACH regulations, and possesses sulfur robustness, making it resistant to corrosive atmospheres commonly found in automotive environments.

1.1 Core Advantages and Target Market

The primary advantages of this LED include its compact PLCC-2 form factor, high brightness output for its size, excellent thermal characteristics due to its package design, and proven reliability for automotive use. Its core target market is the automotive industry, specifically for interior ambient lighting and backlighting for switches, buttons, and instrument clusters. The wide viewing angle is particularly beneficial for applications where light needs to be visible from various angles within a vehicle's cabin.

2. In-Depth Technical Parameter Analysis

2.1 Photometric and Electrical Characteristics

The electrical and optical performance is defined under specific test conditions, typically at a junction temperature (Tj) of 25°C. The forward current (IF) has an operating range from 7 mA to 70 mA, with 20 mA being the standard test and recommended operating point. At this current, the typical forward voltage (VF) is 1.9 volts, with a minimum of 1.75V and a maximum of 2.75V. The luminous intensity (IV) is specified with a typical value of 580 mcd, ranging from a minimum of 450 mcd to a maximum of 900 mcd. The dominant wavelength (λd) is typically 629 nanometers (nm), within a range of 627 nm to 636 nm, defining its Super Red color point. The viewing angle (2θ½) is 120 degrees, measured as the full angle where luminous intensity drops to half of its peak value.

2.2 Absolute Maximum Ratings and Thermal Management

Absolute maximum ratings define the limits beyond which permanent damage may occur. The maximum continuous forward current is 70 mA. The device can withstand a surge current (IFM) of 300 mA for very short pulses (≤10 μs) at a low duty cycle. The maximum junction temperature (Tj) is 125°C. The operating temperature range (Topr) is from -40°C to +110°C, which is standard for automotive components. Thermal management is critical for LED longevity and performance. The thermal resistance from the junction to the solder point (Rth JS) is specified. The electrical method estimates it at 220 K/W, while the real measurement method gives a value of 250 K/W. This parameter indicates how effectively heat is conducted away from the LED chip; a lower value is better. Proper PCB thermal design is essential to maintain a low solder pad temperature, especially when operating at higher currents.

3. Performance Curve Analysis

3.1 Forward Current vs. Forward Voltage (IV Curve)

The IV curve shows a non-linear relationship. As forward current increases from 0 to 70 mA, the forward voltage increases from approximately 1.7V to 2.3V. This curve is essential for designing the current-limiting circuitry (usually a resistor or constant current driver) to ensure the LED operates at the desired brightness without exceeding its maximum ratings.

3.2 Relative Luminous Intensity vs. Forward Current

This graph demonstrates that light output is not perfectly linear with current. While intensity increases with current, the efficiency (lumens per watt) may decrease at higher currents due to increased heat generation. The curve helps designers choose an optimal operating point that balances brightness, efficiency, and device lifetime.

3.3 Temperature Dependence

Several graphs illustrate the impact of temperature. The relative luminous intensity decreases as the junction temperature rises. For example, at 100°C, the intensity is roughly 70-80% of its value at 25°C. The forward voltage has a negative temperature coefficient, decreasing linearly with increasing temperature (approximately -1.5 mV/°C). The dominant wavelength also shifts with temperature, typically increasing (red-shift) by about 0.07 nm/°C. These characteristics are vital for applications experiencing wide temperature swings, such as in automotive interiors.

3.4 Forward Current Derating and Pulse Handling

The derating curve is crucial for reliability. It shows the maximum allowable continuous forward current as a function of the solder pad temperature (Ts). For instance, at a Ts of 78°C, the maximum current is 70 mA. At 110°C, the maximum current drops to 22 mA. Operating above this curve risks overheating and reduced lifespan. The pulse handling capability chart shows the permissible peak pulse current for various pulse widths (tp) and duty cycles (D), useful for multiplexing or blinking applications.

4. Binning System Explanation

To ensure color and brightness consistency in production, LEDs are sorted into bins.

4.1 Luminous Intensity Binning

The luminous intensity is binned using an alphanumeric code (e.g., L1, L2, M1... GA). Each bin covers a specific range of minimum and maximum luminous intensity measured in millicandelas (mcd). The bins follow a logarithmic progression, where each step represents an increase by a factor of approximately the square root of 2. For the 3011-SR0201H-AM, the typical output of 580 mcd falls within the U1 bin (450-560 mcd) or U2 bin (560-710 mcd). Designers can specify a tighter bin for applications requiring very uniform brightness.

4.2 Dominant Wavelength Binning

The dominant wavelength, which defines the perceived color, is also binned. The bins are identified by four-digit codes (e.g., 2730, 3033). The first two digits represent the minimum wavelength in tens of nanometers, and the last two represent the maximum. For a typical wavelength of 629 nm, the relevant bins are 2730 (627-630 nm) and 3033 (630-633 nm). Specifying a wavelength bin is critical for applications where color matching between multiple LEDs is important.

5. Mechanical, Packaging & Assembly Information

5.1 Mechanical Dimensions and Polarity

The LED comes in a standard PLCC-2 package. The datasheet includes a detailed dimensional drawing showing the package length, width, height, lead spacing, and pad sizes. The component has a built-in polarity indicator, typically a notch or a chamfered corner on the package, which must be aligned with the corresponding marking on the PCB silkscreen to ensure correct orientation (anode vs. cathode).

5.2 Recommended PCB Land Pattern

A recommended solder pad layout (land pattern) is provided for PCB design. This pattern is optimized for reliable soldering, good mechanical strength, and effective heat dissipation from the thermal pad (if present) on the bottom of the PLCC package. Following this recommendation helps prevent tombstoning and soldering defects during reflow.

5.3 Reflow Soldering Profile and Precautions

The datasheet specifies a reflow soldering profile compatible with lead-free (Pb-free) solder. Key parameters include a preheat zone, a temperature ramp-up, a peak temperature zone (not exceeding 260°C for 30 seconds), and a cooling zone. Adhering to this profile prevents thermal shock and damage to the LED. General precautions include avoiding mechanical stress on the lens, preventing contamination, and using proper ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) handling procedures, as the device is rated for 2 kV Human Body Model (HBM) ESD protection.

6. Application Guidelines and Design Considerations

6.1 Typical Application Circuits

The most common drive method is a series current-limiting resistor. The resistor value (R) is calculated using Ohm's Law: R = (Vsupply - VF) / IF, where VF is the forward voltage of the LED at the desired current IF. For a 12V automotive supply and a target current of 20 mA with VF=1.9V, R = (12 - 1.9) / 0.02 = 505 Ohms. A 510 Ohm resistor would be a standard choice. For better current regulation across temperature and supply voltage variations, a constant current driver IC is recommended.

6.2 Thermal Design Considerations

Effective heat sinking is paramount. The primary heat path is from the LED junction, through the package, to the solder pads, and then into the copper traces of the PCB. Using a PCB with sufficient copper thickness and area connected to the thermal pad helps lower the solder pad temperature (Ts). The derating curve must be consulted to ensure the operating current is safe for the expected maximum Ts in the application environment.

6.3 Optical Design Considerations

The 120-degree viewing angle is a natural Lambertian-like distribution. For applications requiring a more focused beam, secondary optics such as lenses or light guides can be used. The Super Red color is ideal for status indicators and warning lights due to its high visibility. Designers should consider potential color mixing if used alongside other colored LEDs.

7. Comparison and Selection Guidance

When selecting a side-view LED, key comparison points include package size (3011 refers to a 3.0mm x 1.1mm footprint), brightness (mcd rating at a specific current), viewing angle, color (wavelength), operating temperature range, and qualification standards (e.g., AEC-Q101). The 3011-SR0201H-AM differentiates itself with its automotive-grade reliability, sulfur robustness, and balanced performance in a compact package. For non-automotive or less demanding environments, commercial-grade equivalents without AEC-Q101 qualification might be a cost-effective alternative.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the minimum current required for this LED to light up?

A: The device is characterized down to 7 mA, but it may emit visible light at currents lower than this. However, for stable and specified performance, operation between 7 mA and 70 mA is recommended.

Q: Can I drive this LED with a PWM signal for dimming?

A: Yes, pulse-width modulation (PWM) is an effective dimming method. The frequency should be high enough to avoid visible flicker (typically >100 Hz). Refer to the pulse handling capability chart to ensure the peak current in each pulse does not exceed ratings.

Q: How do I interpret the part number 3011-SR0201H-AM?

A: While the exact corporate naming convention may vary, it typically breaks down as: \"3011\" (package size/style), \"SR\" (Super Red), \"02\" (likely related to performance binning), \"01H\" (could indicate specific attributes like viewing angle), \"AM\" (often denotes Automotive Market or a specific revision).

Q: Is a heatsink required?

A: For continuous operation at currents near the maximum (70 mA), a well-designed PCB with adequate copper acting as a heatsink is necessary. A separate metal heatsink is generally not required for this package type if the PCB thermal design is good.

9. Practical Application Example

Scenario: Backlighting an Automotive Climate Control Switch Panel.

A design requires 10 red indicator LEDs for button backlighting. The system voltage is 12V (vehicle battery). The goal is uniform brightness at an ambient temperature of up to 85°C.

Design Steps:

1. Current Selection: To ensure longevity at high temperature, derate the current. From the derating curve, at a estimated Ts of 90°C, the max current is ~50 mA. Choosing 15 mA provides a good safety margin and sufficient brightness.

2. Circuit Design: Use a series resistor for each LED. R = (12V - 1.9V) / 0.015A ≈ 673 Ohms. Use a standard 680 Ohm resistor.

3. Thermal Design: Design the PCB with large copper pours connected to the LED's thermal pad to dissipate heat.

4. Binning: Specify a tight luminous intensity bin (e.g., U1 or U2) and a tight wavelength bin (e.g., 2730) from the supplier to ensure all 10 switches have matching color and brightness.

5. Validation: Test the prototype across the vehicle's operating temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) to verify performance.

10. Technical Principles and Trends

10.1 Operating Principle

This LED is a semiconductor diode. When a forward voltage exceeding its bandgap energy is applied, electrons and holes recombine in the active region of the semiconductor chip (typically based on Aluminum Gallium Indium Phosphide - AlGaInP for red/orange/yellow colors). This recombination releases energy in the form of photons (light). The specific material composition determines the wavelength (color) of the emitted light. The plastic package encapsulates the chip, provides mechanical protection, and incorporates a molded lens that shapes the light output to achieve the 120-degree viewing angle.

10.2 Industry Trends

The trend in automotive interior lighting LEDs is towards higher efficiency (more lumens per watt), smaller package sizes enabling slimmer designs, improved color consistency and saturation, and integration of multiple chips (RGB) into a single package for dynamic color lighting. There is also a push for \"chip-scale\" packages and flip-chip designs that offer better thermal performance and even smaller footprints. The demand for reliable, long-lifetime components qualified to automotive standards like AEC-Q102 (for optoelectronics) continues to grow as vehicles incorporate more ambient and functional lighting.