LED Light bars from Super Bright LEDs
Time: 2008-2-18
ThThe light barsare an ingeniously designed series-parallel array of high-flux LEDs, arranged as a single row of twelve LEDs spaced approximately 1 inch (25 mm) on center. Designed for direct drive from 12VDC supply, these light bars are incredibly flexible due to a clever connector scheme and their ability to be snapped into three-inch segments that can easily be joined with connectors. By snapping along scored lines on the board and joining the segments, these arrays can ¡°turn corners,¡± which is quite a cunning trick.
The board measures 300 x 21mm, with each 75mm segment consisting of three LEDs in series with a resistor and a conventional switching diode. When intact, the board is a parallel arrangement of these series circuits. Each segment (and thus the board) sports 2-pin 0.100¡± pin headers at each end, clearly labeled for polarity, making it a snap to arrange as many boards as you need in whatever configuration you like.
pictured with jumpers, sold separately
Although the connectors are standard, Super Bright LEDs also offers them for convenience. The matching connectors lock, ensuring a good connection. They¡¯re also keyed, making it impossible to misconnect the arrays. Another available accessory (not pictured) is a plastic tray that is made to fit these boards, allowing for a very professional installation in applications like under cabinet accent lights. And the switching power supplies offered by Super Bright LEDs are well suited to driving installations consisting of several of these light bars.
Fit and Finish
As the pictures clearly show, the circuit boards have a white finish, which helps reflect light. Track width on the boards is maximal. The pattern evident in the photos is actually the etched area between tracks. The 1.5mm thick boards have a substantial feel. The back is marked indicating the color of the array, as is the packaging.
pictured with jumpers, sold separately
well-soldered connections on huge tracks
LEDs
The individual LEDs are high flux, 6500mcd, four-pin devices (apparently from Lumileds, although not indicated in the specs). The boards are laid out such that a replacement of a failed LED would be simple (and thanks to the series-parallel arrangement, the failure would be limited to a single segment). The beam angle is 90¡ã wide, making these light bars well-suited for general accent lighting.
these are illumination-grade LEDs
Applications
This array has a variety of applications, including neon sign replacement, vehicle accents (the 12V supply voltage makes this a natural), architectural accent lighting, safety lighting (such as cabinet toekicks), and solar-powered lighting applications. The linear nature coupled with the ability to ¡°turn corners¡± in such a flexible fashion makes this an attractive option for lighting under bars, under cabinets, home theatre accents, and cove lighting. PC enthusiasts could easily find a place in their favorite case for this low-profile array, and the 12V drive voltage makes it a plug-and-play accessory.
Conclusion
I can recommend this product. A knowledgeable DIYer could accomplish very professional looking accent lighting using this system, at a very favorable cost compared to halogen or incandescent light arrays. Light output is high compared to ¡°rope lights¡± commonly sold in discount stores, and there¡¯s far less likelihood of a failed bulb with LEDs. Just buy your lighting ¡°by the foot.¡±
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