High Drive Currents Make SMT LEDs Glow Brighter April 2003 Issue Published Date: April 01, 2003
Through the use of integrated heatsinks, the Solaris SM Series of surface-mount LEDs can employ high, 75- to 175-mA forward currents (IF) to generate luminance intensities of from 1,400 to 2,000 mcd, respectively. Coupled with high total flux levels (4,000 to 5,500 mlm are characteristic), the new LEDs can achieve high brightness and contrast specs, suiting the devices for use in automotive, instrumentation, outdoor displays, and portable products. The SM Series LEDs also feature forward voltages of 2.2V to 5.5V (typical), dissipate from 525 to 450 mW, operate over a -40°C to +100°C temperature range, and come in five colors—blue, true green, red, yellow and white. The miniature SMT LEDs are housed in a compact, 6.0-mm square package standing just 1.5 mm high and also provide a wide, 120° viewing angle. In addition, they have a low thermal resistance and are compatible with both IR and flow soldering processes. Available in 1,000-piece reels, the LEDs cost $1 each in production quantities. For more details, contact Anthony Vilgiate at BIVAR INC., Irvine, CA. (800) 772-2377.
