Table of Contents
- 1. Product Overview
- 1.1 Core Features and Advantages
- 1.2 Target Applications and Markets
- 2. Technical Parameter Analysis
- 2.1 Absolute Maximum Ratings
- 2.2 Electrical and Optical Characteristics
- 2.2.1 Luminous Intensity and Viewing Angle
- 2.2.2 Spectral Characteristics
- 2.2.3 Electrical Parameters
- 3. Bin Table Specification
- 3.1 Luminous Intensity Binning
- 3.2 Dominant Wavelength Binning
- 4. Performance Curve Analysis
- 5. Mechanical and Packaging Information
- 5.1 Outline Dimensions and Construction
- 5.2 Packing Specification
- 6. Soldering, Assembly, and Handling Guidelines
- 6.1 Storage Conditions
- 6.2 Cleaning
- 6.3 Lead Forming and PCB Assembly
- 6.4 Soldering Process
- 7. Application Suggestions and Design Considerations
- 7.1 Typical Application Scenarios
- 7.2 Circuit Design Notes
- 8. Technical Comparison and Differentiation
- 9. Frequently Asked Questions (Based on Technical Parameters)
- 10. Practical Design and Usage Case
- 11. Operating Principle Introduction
- 12. Technology Trends and Context
- LED Specification Terminology
- Photoelectric Performance
- Electrical Parameters
- Thermal Management & Reliability
- Packaging & Materials
- Quality Control & Binning
- Testing & Certification
1. Product Overview
This document details the specifications for a T-1 format through-hole LED lamp designed as a Circuit Board Indicator (CBI). The device is housed in a black plastic right-angle holder (housing) and is characterized by its bi-color emission capability (Yellow Green and Red) combined with a White Diffused lens. The primary design focus is on ease of assembly onto printed circuit boards (PCBs), making it suitable for automated placement processes.
1.1 Core Features and Advantages
- Ease of Assembly: The design is optimized for straightforward circuit board assembly.
- Enhanced Contrast: A black housing material is used to improve the visual contrast ratio of the illuminated indicator.
- Energy Efficiency: The device offers low power consumption coupled with high luminous efficiency.
- Environmental Compliance: This is a lead-free product that complies with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directives.
- Packaging: Supplied in tape and reel packaging compatible with automated assembly equipment.
1.2 Target Applications and Markets
This LED lamp is intended for a broad range of electronic equipment, including but not limited to:
- Computer peripherals and systems
- Communication devices
- Consumer electronics
- Industrial control and instrumentation
2. Technical Parameter Analysis
This section provides a detailed, objective interpretation of the key electrical, optical, and thermal parameters specified for the device. All data is referenced at an ambient temperature (TA) of 25°C unless otherwise stated.
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.
- Power Dissipation (PD): 52 mW maximum for both Red and Yellow Green LEDs. This parameter is critical for thermal management design.
- Peak Forward Current (IFP): 60 mA maximum, permissible only under pulsed conditions (duty cycle ≤ 1/10, pulse width ≤ 10ms).
- Continuous DC Forward Current (IF): 20 mA maximum. This is the recommended operating current for reliable long-term performance.
- Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C. The device is rated for industrial-grade temperature environments.
- Storage Temperature Range: -40°C to +100°C.
- Lead Soldering Temperature: Withstands 260°C for a maximum of 5 seconds, measured 2.0mm from the LED body. This is compatible with standard wave or hand soldering processes.
2.2 Electrical and Optical Characteristics
The following parameters are measured under standard test conditions (IF = 10mA). Note that luminous intensity (Iv) specifications include a ±30% testing tolerance.
2.2.1 Luminous Intensity and Viewing Angle
- Yellow Green LED: Typical luminous intensity is 38 mcd, with a range from 23 mcd (Min) to 65 mcd (Max). The typical viewing angle (2θ1/2) is 120 degrees, indicating a wide, diffuse light pattern.
- Red LED: Typical luminous intensity is higher at 60 mcd, ranging from 30 mcd (Min) to 90 mcd (Max).
2.2.2 Spectral Characteristics
- Yellow Green LED: Typical peak emission wavelength (λP) is 574 nm. The typical dominant wavelength (λd) is 570 nm, with a spectral half-width (Δλ) of 20 nm.
- Red LED: Typical peak emission wavelength (λP) is 660 nm. The typical dominant wavelength (λd) is 645 nm, also with a spectral half-width (Δλ) of 20 nm.
2.2.3 Electrical Parameters
- Forward Voltage (VF): For the Yellow Green LED, the typical VF is 2.0V, ranging from 1.6V (Min) to 2.5V (Max) at 10mA. The Red LED's VF is specified within the same range.
- Reverse Current (IR): Maximum of 100 μA at a reverse voltage (VR) of 5V. It is explicitly noted that the device is not designed for reverse operation; this test condition is for leakage current verification only.
3. Bin Table Specification
The product is sorted into bins based on key optical parameters to ensure consistency within a production lot. Designers can specify bins to meet application requirements for brightness and color.
3.1 Luminous Intensity Binning
- Yellow Green (G-Codes):
- G1: 23 - 38 mcd
- G2: 38 - 65 mcd
- Red (R-Codes):
- R1: 30 - 50 mcd
- R2: 50 - 90 mcd
Tolerance on each bin limit is ±15%.
3.2 Dominant Wavelength Binning
- Yellow Green (A-Codes):
- A1: 565.0 - 568.0 nm
- A2: 568.0 - 570.0 nm
- A3: 570.0 - 572.0 nm
- A4: 572.0 - 574.0 nm
- Red (B-Code): A single broad bin, B, covering 630.0 - 660.0 nm.
Tolerance on each bin limit is ±1 nm.
4. Performance Curve Analysis
While the provided PDF excerpt references typical characteristic curves, these graphs are essential for in-depth design. They typically illustrate the relationship between forward current and luminous intensity (I-V curve), forward voltage vs. temperature, and the spectral power distribution. Designers use these to predict performance under non-standard operating conditions, such as different drive currents or ambient temperatures.
5. Mechanical and Packaging Information
5.1 Outline Dimensions and Construction
The device uses a T-1 (3mm) lamp form factor mounted in a black or dark gray plastic right-angle holder. Key mechanical notes include:
- All dimensions are in millimeters.
- Standard tolerance is ±0.25mm unless specified otherwise.
- The pin length is specified as 3.0mm.
5.2 Packing Specification
The device is supplied in a format suitable for automated assembly.
- Carrier Tape: Made from black conductive polystyrene alloy, 0.50mm thick.
- Reel: Standard 13-inch (330mm) reel.
- Quantity per Reel: 400 pieces.
- Master Packaging:
- One reel is packed with a desiccant and humidity indicator card inside a Moisture Barrier Bag (MBB).
- Two MBBs (800 pcs total) are packed in one inner carton.
- Ten inner cartons (8,000 pcs total) are packed in one outer carton.
6. Soldering, Assembly, and Handling Guidelines
6.1 Storage Conditions
- Sealed Package (MBB): Store at ≤30°C and ≤70% RH. Use within one year of packing date.
- Opened Package: Store at ≤30°C and ≤60% RH. Components removed from the MBB should undergo IR reflow soldering within 168 hours (7 days).
- Extended Storage (Opened): For storage beyond 168 hours, store in a sealed container with desiccant or in a nitrogen desiccator. A bake-out at 60°C for at least 48 hours is required before soldering to remove absorbed moisture and prevent "popcorning" damage during reflow.
6.2 Cleaning
If cleaning is necessary after soldering, use only alcohol-based solvents such as isopropyl alcohol (IPA). Avoid aggressive or unknown chemical cleaners.
6.3 Lead Forming and PCB Assembly
- Bend leads at a point at least 3mm away from the base of the LED lens. Do not use the lens base as a fulcrum.
- All lead forming must be completed before the soldering process and at room temperature.
- During insertion into the PCB, apply the minimum clinching force necessary to secure the part, avoiding excessive mechanical stress on the LED package.
6.4 Soldering Process
The device is compatible with standard soldering techniques. Adhere to the maximum rating of 260°C for 5 seconds when the leads are soldered. Ensure the soldering iron tip or wave solder contact is at least 2.0mm from the plastic body to prevent heat damage.
7. Application Suggestions and Design Considerations
7.1 Typical Application Scenarios
This bi-color LED is ideal for status indication where multiple states need to be communicated. Common uses include:
- Power/Standby Indicators: Red for standby, Green for power-on.
- System Status: Green for normal operation, Red for fault or warning condition.
- Battery Level Indicators: Multi-segment displays using color to indicate charge level (e.g., Green=high, Red=low).
- Mode Selection Indicators: On control panels for appliances or industrial equipment.
7.2 Circuit Design Notes
- Current Limiting: Always use a series current-limiting resistor. Calculate the resistor value using R = (Vcc - VF) / IF, where VF is the forward voltage of the active color at the desired current (typically 10-20mA).
- Bi-Color Drive: This is a 2-pin, 2-chip device. The two LEDs (Red and Yellow Green) are connected in inverse parallel. Applying forward bias to one pin lights one color; reversing the polarity lights the other color. It cannot display both colors simultaneously.
- Microcontroller Interface: Can be easily driven by microcontroller GPIO pins. Ensure the pin can source/sink the required current, often requiring a transistor driver for higher currents.
8. Technical Comparison and Differentiation
Compared to single-color through-hole LEDs, this bi-color device offers significant space savings on the PCB by combining two indicator functions into one physical footprint. The right-angle holder provides a low-profile mounting solution ideal for applications with height constraints. The inclusion of a white diffused lens on the bi-color chip offers a uniform, wide viewing angle appearance, which can be preferable to clear lenses in many indicator applications.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (Based on Technical Parameters)
- Q: What is the difference between peak wavelength and dominant wavelength?
A: Peak wavelength (λP) is the single wavelength at which the emitted optical power is maximum. Dominant wavelength (λd) is the single wavelength perceived by the human eye, calculated from the CIE chromaticity coordinates. λd is more relevant for color indication applications. - Q: Can I drive this LED at 20mA continuously?
A: Yes, 20mA is the maximum continuous DC forward current rating. For optimal longevity and reliability, driving at 10mA (the test condition) or slightly lower is common practice. - Q: Why is the storage and handling moisture sensitivity so important?
A: The plastic packaging can absorb moisture from the air. During the high-temperature reflow soldering process, this trapped moisture can vaporize rapidly, causing internal delamination or cracking ("popcorning"). The prescribed baking procedure removes this moisture. - Q: How do I select the correct bin code?
A: Specify a bin code based on your application's need for brightness consistency (G1/G2/R1/R2) and color consistency (A1-A4 for Yellow Green). If color matching across multiple units is critical, a tighter wavelength bin (e.g., A2) should be selected.
10. Practical Design and Usage Case
Scenario: Designing a Network Router Status Panel
A designer needs indicators for "Power," "Internet Connection," and "Wi-Fi Activity." They choose this bi-color LED for the "Internet" indicator. The circuit is designed so that a microcontroller pin drives the LED. When a valid internet connection is established (via Ethernet), the pin outputs a logic high, lighting the Yellow Green LED. If the connection is lost, the firmware switches the pin to logic low, lighting the Red LED. A single 150Ω current-limiting resistor is placed in series with the LED, calculated for a 3.3V supply and a ~2.0V forward voltage at ~10mA. This provides clear, unambiguous status using one component footprint, saving space and cost compared to using two separate single-color LEDs.
11. Operating Principle Introduction
A Light Emitting Diode (LED) is a semiconductor device that emits light when an electric current passes through it. This phenomenon, called electroluminescence, occurs when electrons recombine with electron holes within the device, releasing energy in the form of photons. The color of the light is determined by the energy band gap of the semiconductor material used. In this bi-color device, two different semiconductor chips (one emitting in the red spectrum, one in the yellow-green spectrum) are housed within a single package with a common cathode/anode connection in an inverse-parallel configuration. The white diffused lens is an epoxy dome that scatters the light, creating a wider, more uniform viewing angle and softening the appearance of the individual chip.
12. Technology Trends and Context
While surface-mount device (SMD) LEDs dominate modern high-density electronics, through-hole LEDs like this T-1 type remain relevant in specific sectors. Their key advantages include superior mechanical robustness, easier manual prototyping and repair, and higher permissible soldering temperatures. The trend for such components is towards higher efficiency (more light output per mA), improved color consistency through tighter binning, and enhanced reliability under harsh environmental conditions (wider temperature ranges, higher humidity resistance). The bi-color function in a single package represents an ongoing industry effort to increase functionality while minimizing board space, a principle that bridges through-hole and SMD design philosophies.
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. |