Table of Contents
- 1. Product Overview
- 1.1 Core Features and Advantages
- 1.2 Target Applications
- 2. Technical Specifications and Objective Interpretation
- 2.1 Absolute Maximum Ratings
- 2.2 Electro-Optical Characteristics
- 3. Binning System Explanation
- 3.1 Luminous Intensity Binning
- 3.2 Dominant Wavelength Binning
- 3.3 Forward Voltage Binning
- 4. Performance Curve Analysis
- 4.1 Relative Luminous Intensity vs. Ambient Temperature
- 4.2 Forward Current Derating Curve
- 4.3 Forward Current vs. Forward Voltage (I-V Curve)
- 4.4 Luminous Intensity vs. Forward Current
- 4.5 Spectrum Distribution
- 4.6 Radiation Pattern
- 5. Mechanical and Package Information
- 5.1 Package Dimensions
- 5.2 Polarity Identification and Pad Design
- 6. Soldering and Assembly Guidelines
- 6.1 Reflow Soldering Profile (Pb-free)
- 6.2 Hand Soldering
- 6.3 Storage and Moisture Sensitivity
- 7. Packaging and Ordering Information
- 7.1 Tape and Reel Specifications
- 7.2 Label Explanation
- 8. Application Design Considerations
- 8.1 Current Limiting is Mandatory
- 8.2 Thermal Management
- 8.3 ESD Protection
- 9. Technical Comparison and Differentiation
- 10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 10.1 What resistor value should I use with a 5V supply?
- 10.2 Can I drive this LED without a resistor using a constant current source?
- 10.3 Why is the luminous intensity range so wide (18-45 mcd)?
- 10.4 How do I interpret the part number 19-219/R6C-AM1N2VY/3T?
- 11. Design and Usage Case Study
- 12. Technology Principle Introduction
- 13. Industry Trends and Developments
1. Product Overview
The 19-219 is a surface-mount device (SMD) LED designed for high-density, miniature applications. It utilizes AlGaInP chip technology to produce a brilliant red light output. Its primary advantage lies in its compact size, which enables significant reductions in PCB footprint, storage space, and overall equipment size compared to traditional lead-frame LEDs. The component is lightweight and compliant with modern manufacturing and environmental standards, including RoHS, REACH, and halogen-free requirements.
1.1 Core Features and Advantages
- Ultra-Compact Package: The small form factor (1.6mm x 0.8mm) allows for higher packing density and miniaturization of end products.
- Manufacturing Compatibility: Supplied in 8mm tape on 7-inch reels, making it fully compatible with automated pick-and-place assembly equipment.
- Robust Soldering: Compatible with both infrared and vapor phase reflow soldering processes, suitable for high-volume production.
- Environmental Compliance: The product is Pb-free, RoHS compliant, REACH compliant, and meets halogen-free specifications (Br <900ppm, Cl <900ppm, Br+Cl <1500ppm).
- Mono-Color Type: Emits a single, brilliant red color.
1.2 Target Applications
This LED is ideal for applications requiring small, reliable indicator lights or backlighting in confined spaces.
- Backlighting for instrument panel dashboards and switches.
- Status indicators and keypad backlighting in telecommunication devices (telephones, fax machines).
- Flat backlighting for LCD panels, switches, and symbols.
- General-purpose indicator applications across consumer and industrial electronics.
2. Technical Specifications and Objective Interpretation
This section provides a detailed breakdown of the absolute maximum ratings and standard electro-optical characteristics. All data is measured at an ambient temperature (Ta) of 25°C unless otherwise specified.
2.1 Absolute Maximum Ratings
These ratings define the limits beyond which permanent damage to the device may occur. Operation under these conditions is not guaranteed.
- Reverse Voltage (VR): 5 V. Exceeding this voltage in reverse bias can cause junction breakdown.
- Continuous Forward Current (IF): 25 mA. The DC current that can be continuously applied.
- Peak Forward Current (IFP): 60 mA (at 1/10 duty cycle, 1kHz). For pulsed operation only.
- Power Dissipation (Pd): 60 mW. The maximum allowable power loss as heat.
- Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Human Body Model (HBM): 2000 V. Indicates a moderate level of ESD sensitivity; standard ESD handling precautions are necessary.
- Operating Temperature (Topr): -40°C to +85°C. The ambient temperature range for reliable operation.
- Storage Temperature (Tstg): -40°C to +90°C.
- Soldering Temperature: Reflow: 260°C max for 10 seconds. Hand soldering: 350°C max for 3 seconds per terminal.
2.2 Electro-Optical Characteristics
Typical performance parameters measured at IF = 5mA.
- Luminous Intensity (Iv): 18 - 45 mcd (millicandela). A measure of perceived brightness. The wide range is managed through binning (see Section 3).
- Viewing Angle (2θ1/2): 130 degrees (typical). This wide viewing angle makes it suitable for applications where the LED may not be viewed head-on.
- Peak Wavelength (λp): 632 nm (typical). The wavelength at which the spectral output is strongest.
- Dominant Wavelength (λd): 617.5 - 633.5 nm. The single-wavelength perception of the emitted color, which is also binned.
- Spectral Bandwidth (Δλ): 20 nm (typical). The width of the emitted spectrum at half its maximum intensity.
- Forward Voltage (VF): 1.7 - 2.2 V. The voltage drop across the LED when conducting 5mA. This parameter is binned for design consistency.
- Reverse Current (IR): 10 μA max at VR=5V. A measure of leakage current in the off-state.
Note on Tolerances: Luminous intensity has a ±11% tolerance, dominant wavelength ±1nm, and forward voltage ±0.05V from the binned values.
3. Binning System Explanation
To ensure color and brightness consistency in production, LEDs are sorted into bins. The 19-219 uses three independent binning parameters.
3.1 Luminous Intensity Binning
LEDs are sorted into four bins (M1, M2, N1, N2) based on their measured luminous intensity at 5mA.
- M1: 18.0 - 22.5 mcd
- M2: 22.5 - 28.5 mcd
- N1: 28.5 - 36.0 mcd
- N2: 36.0 - 45.0 mcd
3.2 Dominant Wavelength Binning
LEDs are sorted into four bins (E3, E4, E5, E6) to control the precise shade of red.
- E3: 617.5 - 621.5 nm
- E4: 621.5 - 625.5 nm
- E5: 625.5 - 629.5 nm
- E6: 629.5 - 633.5 nm
3.3 Forward Voltage Binning
LEDs are sorted into five bins (19, 20, 21, 22, 23) to group devices with similar electrical characteristics, aiding in current matching for multi-LED designs.
- 19: 1.7 - 1.8 V
- 20: 1.8 - 1.9 V
- 21: 1.9 - 2.0 V
- 22: 2.0 - 2.1 V
- 23: 2.1 - 2.2 V
4. Performance Curve Analysis
The datasheet provides several key graphs that illustrate the LED's behavior under varying conditions.
4.1 Relative Luminous Intensity vs. Ambient Temperature
This curve shows that luminous intensity decreases as ambient temperature increases. The output is relatively stable from -40°C to approximately 25°C but shows a more pronounced decline at higher temperatures, typical of LED behavior due to increased non-radiative recombination.
4.2 Forward Current Derating Curve
This graph defines the maximum allowable forward current as a function of ambient temperature. To prevent overheating and ensure long-term reliability, the forward current must be reduced when operating at high ambient temperatures (above ~25°C).
4.3 Forward Current vs. Forward Voltage (I-V Curve)
This fundamental characteristic shows the exponential relationship between current and voltage. The curve is essential for designing the current-limiting circuitry (usually a series resistor). The "knee" of the curve, where conduction begins, is around 1.6V to 1.7V.
4.4 Luminous Intensity vs. Forward Current
This plot demonstrates that light output increases with forward current, but the relationship is not perfectly linear, especially at higher currents. It helps designers choose an operating point that balances brightness with efficiency and device stress.
4.5 Spectrum Distribution
The spectral output graph shows a single peak centered around 632 nm (typical), confirming the monochromatic brilliant red emission with a typical full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 20 nm.
4.6 Radiation Pattern
The polar diagram illustrates the 130-degree viewing angle, showing the angular distribution of light intensity, which is nearly Lambertian (cosine distribution).
5. Mechanical and Package Information
5.1 Package Dimensions
The LED has a very compact footprint with the following key dimensions (in mm, tolerances ±0.1mm unless noted):
- Length: 1.60
- Width: 0.80
- Height: 0.65 ±0.1
- Land pad (cathode) dimensions: 0.70 x 0.20 ±0.05
5.2 Polarity Identification and Pad Design
The cathode (negative terminal) is clearly marked on the top of the package. The recommended solder pad layout is provided to ensure a reliable solder joint and proper alignment during reflow. The datasheet notes that the pad dimensions are for reference and can be modified based on specific PCB design requirements.
6. Soldering and Assembly Guidelines
Proper handling is critical for the reliability of SMD components.
6.1 Reflow Soldering Profile (Pb-free)
A specific temperature profile is recommended:
- Pre-heating: 150-200°C for 60-120 seconds.
- Time Above Liquidus (TAL): 60-150 seconds above 217°C.
- Peak Temperature: Maximum of 260°C, held for a maximum of 10 seconds.
- Heating/Cooling Rate: Maximum 6°C/sec heating, 3°C/sec cooling.
Critical Note: Reflow soldering should not be performed more than two times on the same LED.
6.2 Hand Soldering
If hand soldering is necessary, extreme care must be taken:
- Use a soldering iron with a tip temperature less than 350°C.
- Limit soldering time to 3 seconds per terminal.
- Use an iron with a capacity of 25W or less.
- Allow an interval of at least 2 seconds between soldering each terminal to prevent thermal shock.
6.3 Storage and Moisture Sensitivity
The LEDs are packaged in a moisture-resistant bag with desiccant.
- Before Opening: Store at ≤30°C and ≤90% Relative Humidity (RH).
- After Opening (Floor Life): 1 year under ≤30°C and ≤60% RH. Unused LEDs should be resealed in a moisture-proof package.
- Baking: If the desiccant indicator changes color or the storage time is exceeded, bake the LEDs at 60 ±5°C for 24 hours before use in a reflow process.
7. Packaging and Ordering Information
7.1 Tape and Reel Specifications
The components are supplied in an 8mm wide embossed carrier tape wound on a standard 7-inch (178mm) diameter reel. Each reel contains 3000 pieces.
7.2 Label Explanation
The reel label contains several key codes that identify the specific binned characteristics of the LEDs on that reel:
- CAT: Luminous Intensity Rank (e.g., M1, N2).
- HUE: Chromaticity/Dominant Wavelength Rank (e.g., E4, E5).
- REF: Forward Voltage Rank (e.g., 20, 21).
- Other information includes Customer Part Number (CPN), Manufacturer Part Number (P/N), Quantity (QTY), and Lot Number (LOT No).
8. Application Design Considerations
8.1 Current Limiting is Mandatory
The datasheet explicitly warns that an external current-limiting resistor must be used. LEDs exhibit a sharp exponential I-V characteristic; a small increase in voltage can cause a large, potentially destructive increase in current. The resistor value (R) can be calculated using Ohm's Law: R = (Vsupply - VF) / IF, where VF is the forward voltage from the bin or typical characteristics, and IF is the desired operating current (≤25mA DC).
8.2 Thermal Management
While a low-power device, thermal considerations are still important for longevity. Adhere to the forward current derating curve at elevated ambient temperatures. Ensure the PCB pad design provides adequate thermal relief if necessary, though the recommended pad is primarily for electrical and mechanical connection.
8.3 ESD Protection
With an ESD rating of 2000V (HBM), standard ESD precautions should be followed during handling and assembly to prevent latent damage.
9. Technical Comparison and Differentiation
The 19-219 LED's primary differentiators are its combination of a very small 1.6mm x 0.8mm footprint with a relatively wide 130-degree viewing angle and its comprehensive three-parameter binning system (Intensity, Wavelength, Voltage). This allows designers to achieve consistent optical performance in space-constrained applications where visual uniformity is critical, such as in multi-LED backlight arrays or indicator panels. Compared to larger SMD LEDs or through-hole LEDs, it offers superior density. Compared to other miniature LEDs, its detailed binning provides greater control over the final product's appearance.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
10.1 What resistor value should I use with a 5V supply?
Using the maximum typical VF of 2.2V and a target IF of 20mA for a safety margin: R = (5V - 2.2V) / 0.020A = 140 Ohms. The nearest standard value of 150 Ohms would result in IF ≈ 18.7mA, which is safe and provides good brightness. Always verify with the actual VF from your specific bin.
10.2 Can I drive this LED without a resistor using a constant current source?
Yes, a constant current driver set to the desired current (e.g., 20mA) is an excellent alternative to a series resistor and provides more stable performance over temperature and voltage variations.
10.3 Why is the luminous intensity range so wide (18-45 mcd)?
This is the natural variation in the manufacturing process. The binning system (M1, M2, N1, N2) sorts the LEDs into much tighter groups. For consistent brightness in an application, specify and use LEDs from the same luminous intensity bin.
10.4 How do I interpret the part number 19-219/R6C-AM1N2VY/3T?
The part number is a manufacturer-specific code. The critical selection information is contained in the separate bin codes on the reel label (CAT, HUE, REF), which define the actual luminous intensity, dominant wavelength, and forward voltage of the devices.
11. Design and Usage Case Study
Scenario: Designing a compact status indicator panel with 20 uniformly bright red LEDs.
- Specification: Select the N1 luminous intensity bin (28.5-36.0 mcd) for adequate brightness. Choose the E4 wavelength bin (621.5-625.5 nm) for a consistent red hue. The forward voltage bin is less critical for uniformity if using individual series resistors but selecting the same bin (e.g., 20) can simplify resistor value calculation.
- Schematic: Each LED is connected in parallel from the common voltage rail (e.g., 3.3V), each with its own current-limiting resistor. The resistor value is calculated based on the nominal VF of the selected voltage bin.
- PCB Layout: Use the recommended or a modified solder pad layout. Ensure the cathode marking on the PCB silkscreen matches the LED's polarity. Group the LEDs closely for the panel effect.
- Assembly: Follow the reflow soldering profile precisely. Do not exceed two reflow cycles. Store opened reels properly if not used immediately.
- Result: A high-density indicator panel with consistent color and brightness, enabled by the small size and precise binning of the 19-219 LED.
12. Technology Principle Introduction
The 19-219 LED is based on AlGaInP (Aluminum Gallium Indium Phosphide) semiconductor material. When a forward voltage is applied across the p-n junction, electrons and holes are injected into the active region where they recombine. In AlGaInP LEDs, this recombination releases energy in the form of photons (light) in the red to amber part of the visible spectrum. The specific composition of the AlGaInP layers determines the peak wavelength, which in this case is tuned for brilliant red emission around 632 nm. The epoxy resin encapsulant is water-clear to maximize light extraction and also serves to protect the semiconductor chip.
13. Industry Trends and Developments
The market for miniature SMD LEDs like the 19-219 continues to be driven by the trend towards ever-smaller and thinner electronic devices. Key developments in the broader LED industry that influence such components include:
- Increased Efficiency: Ongoing material and process improvements lead to higher luminous efficacy (more light output per electrical watt), allowing for lower operating currents and reduced power consumption in end products.
- Enhanced Color Consistency: Advanced binning and wafer-level testing enable tighter control over chromaticity and intensity, which is critical for applications like display backlighting where uniformity is paramount.
- Improved Reliability and Lifetime: Refinements in packaging materials and chip design continue to extend operational lifespans and robustness against thermal and environmental stress.
- Integration: While discrete LEDs remain essential, there is a parallel trend towards integrated LED modules and light guides for more complex lighting solutions, though discrete components offer maximum design flexibility for custom layouts.
The 19-219 represents a mature, well-characterized component that benefits from these ongoing industry advancements in materials science and manufacturing precision.
LED Specification Terminology
Complete explanation of LED technical terms
Photoelectric Performance
| Term | Unit/Representation | Simple Explanation | Why Important |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luminous Efficacy | lm/W (lumens per watt) | Light output per watt of electricity, higher means more energy efficient. | Directly determines energy efficiency grade and electricity cost. |
| Luminous Flux | lm (lumens) | Total light emitted by source, commonly called "brightness". | Determines if the light is bright enough. |
| Viewing Angle | ° (degrees), e.g., 120° | Angle where light intensity drops to half, determines beam width. | Affects illumination range and uniformity. |
| CCT (Color Temperature) | K (Kelvin), e.g., 2700K/6500K | Warmth/coolness of light, lower values yellowish/warm, higher whitish/cool. | Determines lighting atmosphere and suitable scenarios. |
| CRI / Ra | Unitless, 0–100 | Ability to render object colors accurately, Ra≥80 is good. | Affects color authenticity, used in high-demand places like malls, museums. |
| SDCM | MacAdam ellipse steps, e.g., "5-step" | Color consistency metric, smaller steps mean more consistent color. | Ensures uniform color across same batch of LEDs. |
| Dominant Wavelength | nm (nanometers), e.g., 620nm (red) | Wavelength corresponding to color of colored LEDs. | Determines hue of red, yellow, green monochrome LEDs. |
| Spectral Distribution | Wavelength vs intensity curve | Shows intensity distribution across wavelengths. | Affects color rendering and quality. |
Electrical Parameters
| Term | Symbol | Simple Explanation | Design Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forward Voltage | Vf | Minimum voltage to turn on LED, like "starting threshold". | Driver voltage must be ≥Vf, voltages add up for series LEDs. |
| Forward Current | If | Current value for normal LED operation. | Usually constant current drive, current determines brightness & lifespan. |
| Max Pulse Current | Ifp | Peak current tolerable for short periods, used for dimming or flashing. | Pulse width & duty cycle must be strictly controlled to avoid damage. |
| Reverse Voltage | Vr | Max reverse voltage LED can withstand, beyond may cause breakdown. | Circuit must prevent reverse connection or voltage spikes. |
| Thermal Resistance | Rth (°C/W) | Resistance to heat transfer from chip to solder, lower is better. | High thermal resistance requires stronger heat dissipation. |
| ESD Immunity | V (HBM), e.g., 1000V | Ability to withstand electrostatic discharge, higher means less vulnerable. | Anti-static measures needed in production, especially for sensitive LEDs. |
Thermal Management & Reliability
| Term | Key Metric | Simple Explanation | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junction Temperature | Tj (°C) | Actual operating temperature inside LED chip. | Every 10°C reduction may double lifespan; too high causes light decay, color shift. |
| Lumen Depreciation | L70 / L80 (hours) | Time for brightness to drop to 70% or 80% of initial. | Directly defines LED "service life". |
| Lumen Maintenance | % (e.g., 70%) | Percentage of brightness retained after time. | Indicates brightness retention over long-term use. |
| Color Shift | Δu′v′ or MacAdam ellipse | Degree of color change during use. | Affects color consistency in lighting scenes. |
| Thermal Aging | Material degradation | Deterioration due to long-term high temperature. | May cause brightness drop, color change, or open-circuit failure. |
Packaging & Materials
| Term | Common Types | Simple Explanation | Features & Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Package Type | EMC, PPA, Ceramic | Housing material protecting chip, providing optical/thermal interface. | EMC: good heat resistance, low cost; Ceramic: better heat dissipation, longer life. |
| Chip Structure | Front, Flip Chip | Chip electrode arrangement. | Flip chip: better heat dissipation, higher efficacy, for high-power. |
| Phosphor Coating | YAG, Silicate, Nitride | Covers blue chip, converts some to yellow/red, mixes to white. | Different phosphors affect efficacy, CCT, and CRI. |
| Lens/Optics | Flat, Microlens, TIR | Optical structure on surface controlling light distribution. | Determines viewing angle and light distribution curve. |
Quality Control & Binning
| Term | Binning Content | Simple Explanation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luminous Flux Bin | Code e.g., 2G, 2H | Grouped by brightness, each group has min/max lumen values. | Ensures uniform brightness in same batch. |
| Voltage Bin | Code e.g., 6W, 6X | Grouped by forward voltage range. | Facilitates driver matching, improves system efficiency. |
| Color Bin | 5-step MacAdam ellipse | Grouped by color coordinates, ensuring tight range. | Guarantees color consistency, avoids uneven color within fixture. |
| CCT Bin | 2700K, 3000K etc. | Grouped by CCT, each has corresponding coordinate range. | Meets different scene CCT requirements. |
Testing & Certification
| Term | Standard/Test | Simple Explanation | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM-80 | Lumen maintenance test | Long-term lighting at constant temperature, recording brightness decay. | Used to estimate LED life (with TM-21). |
| TM-21 | Life estimation standard | Estimates life under actual conditions based on LM-80 data. | Provides scientific life prediction. |
| IESNA | Illuminating Engineering Society | Covers optical, electrical, thermal test methods. | Industry-recognized test basis. |
| RoHS / REACH | Environmental certification | Ensures no harmful substances (lead, mercury). | Market access requirement internationally. |
| ENERGY STAR / DLC | Energy efficiency certification | Energy efficiency and performance certification for lighting. | Used in government procurement, subsidy programs, enhances competitiveness. |