Table of Contents
- 1. Product Overview
- 1.1 Core Features and Advantages
- 1.2 Target Applications and Markets
- 2. Technical Parameters: In-Depth Objective Interpretation
- 2.1 Absolute Maximum Ratings
- 2.2 Electro-Optical Characteristics
- 3. Binning System Specification
- 3.1 Luminous Intensity Binning
- 3.2 Dominant Wavelength Binning (Green Only)
- 4. Performance Curve Analysis
- 4.1 Forward Current vs. Forward Voltage (I-V Curve)
- 4.2 Luminous Intensity vs. Forward Current
- 4.3 Luminous Intensity vs. Ambient Temperature
- 4.4 Spectral Distribution
- 5. Mechanical and Packaging Information
- 5.1 Outline Dimensions and Notes
- 5.2 Polarity Identification and Lead Forming
- 5.3 Packing Specification
- 6. Soldering and Assembly Guidelines
- 6.1 Storage and Moisture Sensitivity
- 6.2 Cleaning
- 6.3 Soldering Process Parameters
- 7. Application Notes and Design Considerations
- 7.1 Typical Application Circuits
- 7.2 Thermal Management
- 7.3 Optical Design
- 8. Technical Comparison and Differentiation
- 9. Frequently Asked Questions (Based on Technical Parameters)
- 9.1 What is the difference between Peak Wavelength and Dominant Wavelength?
- 9.2 Why is there a current derating specification above 50°C?
- 9.3 Can I drive this LED with a voltage source without a current-limiting resistor?
- 9.4 What does the \"Tolerance of each bin limit is ±15%\" mean?
- 10. Practical Design and Usage Case Study
- 11. Operational Principle
- 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 bi-color Circuit Board Indicator (CBI). The device consists of a black plastic right-angle housing (holder) designed to mate with a T-1 sized LED lamp. The integrated LED features two chip sources: one emitting in the red spectrum and one in the green spectrum, combined with a white diffused lens for a uniform appearance.
1.1 Core Features and Advantages
- Ease of Assembly: The design is optimized for straightforward circuit board assembly and is stackable for creating arrays.
- Enhanced Contrast: The black housing provides a high contrast ratio, improving the visibility of the illuminated indicator.
- Energy Efficiency: The device features low power consumption.
- Environmental Compliance: This is a lead-free product compliant with RoHS directives.
- Integrated Solution: The package includes a bi-color AlInGaP LED (Red: 631nm, Green: 569nm) with a white diffused lens pre-assembled in the holder.
- Automated Handling: Supplied in tape and reel packaging suitable for automated placement equipment.
1.2 Target Applications and Markets
This indicator is suitable for a broad range of electronic equipment requiring status or signal indication. Primary application markets include:
- Communication Equipment
- Computer and Peripheral Devices
- Consumer Electronics
- Industrial Control Systems
2. Technical Parameters: In-Depth Objective Interpretation
2.1 Absolute Maximum Ratings
These ratings define the stress limits beyond which permanent damage to the device may occur. Operation under or at these limits is not guaranteed.
- Power Dissipation (Pd): 75 mW for both red and green chips. This is the maximum power the LED package can dissipate as heat at an ambient temperature (TA) of 25°C.
- Forward Current:
- Continuous DC (IF): 30 mA maximum for both colors.
- Peak Pulse (IFP): 60 mA (Green) and 90 mA (Red), permissible only under strict conditions (duty cycle ≤ 1/10, pulse width ≤ 10ms).
- Thermal Derating: The maximum allowable DC forward current must be reduced linearly by 0.4 mA for every degree Celsius the ambient temperature rises above 50°C. This is critical for reliability at elevated temperatures.
- Temperature Ranges: Operational from -40°C to +100°C; storage from -55°C to +100°C.
- Soldering Temperature: Leads can withstand 260°C for a maximum of 5 seconds, measured 1.6mm from the body.
2.2 Electro-Optical Characteristics
These parameters are measured at TA=25°C and IF=20mA, representing typical operating conditions.
- Luminous Intensity (Iv): The typical axial light output is 110 mcd for both colors. Minimum values are 65 mcd, and maximums are 250 mcd (Red) and 450 mcd (Green). A ±30% testing tolerance is applied to intensity guarantees.
- Viewing Angle (2θ1/2): 45 degrees. This is the full angle at which the intensity drops to half its axial value, defining the beam width.
- Wavelength:
- Peak Wavelength (λP): Approximately 639 nm (Red) and 575 nm (Green). This is the spectral point of maximum radiant power.
- Dominant Wavelength (λd): 631 nm (Red) and 569 nm (Green). This is the single wavelength perceived by the human eye, defining the color point on the CIE chromaticity diagram.
- Spectral Bandwidth (Δλ): 20 nm (Red) and 11 nm (Green). This indicates the spectral purity; a narrower bandwidth means a more saturated color.
- Forward Voltage (VF): Typically 2.0V (Red) and 2.1V (Green) at 20mA, with a maximum of 2.4V for both. This is crucial for current-limiting resistor calculation.
- Reverse Current (IR): Maximum 10 µA at a reverse voltage (VR) of 5V. Important: The device is not designed for reverse-bias operation; this test is for characterization only.
3. Binning System Specification
The devices are sorted (binned) based on key optical parameters to ensure consistency within a production lot.
3.1 Luminous Intensity Binning
Units: mcd @ IF=20mA. Tolerance on bin limits is ±15%.
- Red LED:
- Bin DE: 65 – 140 mcd
- Bin FG: 140 – 250 mcd
- Green LED:
- Bin DE: 65 – 140 mcd
- Bin FG: 140 – 250 mcd
- Bin HJ: 250 – 450 mcd
3.2 Dominant Wavelength Binning (Green Only)
Units: nm @ IF=20mA. Tolerance on bin limits is ±1 nm.
- Hue Bin H06: 564.0 – 568.0 nm
- Hue Bin H07: 568.0 – 571.0 nm
4. Performance Curve Analysis
The datasheet references typical performance curves which graphically represent relationships between key parameters. While the specific graphs are not reproduced in text, their implications are analyzed below.
4.1 Forward Current vs. Forward Voltage (I-V Curve)
The I-V curve for AlInGaP LEDs typically shows an exponential relationship. The specified VF at 20mA provides a key operating point. Designers must use a series resistor to set the current, as small changes in voltage can cause large changes in current due to the diode's exponential characteristic.
4.2 Luminous Intensity vs. Forward Current
This curve is generally linear over a significant range. Operating at the recommended 20mA ensures optimal brightness and efficiency. Exceeding the maximum DC current reduces lifetime and efficiency due to increased heat.
4.3 Luminous Intensity vs. Ambient Temperature
The light output of LEDs decreases as junction temperature increases. The thermal derating specification for current (0.4 mA/°C above 50°C) is directly related to managing this effect. For applications in high ambient temperatures, reducing drive current or improving board-level heatsinking is necessary to maintain brightness.
4.4 Spectral Distribution
The specified peak and dominant wavelengths, along with spectral bandwidth, define the color characteristics. The narrower bandwidth of the green chip (11 nm) compared to the red (20 nm) indicates higher color purity for the green emission.
5. Mechanical and Packaging Information
5.1 Outline Dimensions and Notes
- All dimensions are provided in millimeters with inches in parentheses.
- Standard tolerance is ±0.25mm unless otherwise specified.
- Holder material: Black plastic.
- Integrated LED: Bi-color (yellow-green/red) with a white diffused lens.
5.2 Polarity Identification and Lead Forming
The device has standard LED polarity (anode/cathode). During lead forming for board mounting, bends must be made at a point at least 2mm from the base of the LED lens/holder. The base of the lead frame must not be used as a fulcrum. Forming must be done at room temperature and before the soldering process.
5.3 Packing Specification
- Carrier Tape: Black conductive polystyrene alloy, 0.50 ± 0.06 mm thick.
- Reel Capacity: 450 pieces per standard 13-inch reel.
- Carton Packing:
- 1 Reel is packed with a desiccant and humidity indicator card in a Moisture Barrier Bag (MBB).
- 2 MBBs are packed in one Inner Carton (total 900 pcs).
- 10 Inner Cartons are packed in one Outer Carton (total 9,000 pcs).
6. Soldering and Assembly Guidelines
6.1 Storage and Moisture Sensitivity
- Sealed Package: Store at ≤ 30°C and ≤ 70% RH. Use within one year.
- Opened Package: Store at ≤ 30°C and ≤ 60% RH. It is recommended to complete IR reflow soldering within 168 hours (1 week) of opening the MBB.
- Extended Storage/Baking: Components stored out of the original packaging for >168 hours should be baked at approximately 60°C for at least 48 hours before SMT assembly to remove absorbed moisture and prevent \"popcorning\" damage during reflow.
6.2 Cleaning
If cleaning is necessary, use alcohol-based solvents such as isopropyl alcohol. Avoid harsh or aggressive chemicals.
6.3 Soldering Process Parameters
A minimum clearance of 2mm must be maintained between the solder point and the base of the lens/holder.
- Hand Soldering (Iron):
- Temperature: 350°C maximum.
- Time: 3 seconds maximum per joint.
- Limit to one soldering cycle.
- Wave Soldering:
- Pre-heat: 120°C max for up to 100 seconds.
- Solder Wave: 260°C max.
- Contact Time: 5 seconds max.
7. Application Notes and Design Considerations
7.1 Typical Application Circuits
The device is driven by a simple DC circuit. A current-limiting resistor (Rseries) is mandatory and is calculated using Ohm's Law: Rseries = (Vsupply - VF) / IF. Use the maximum VF from the datasheet (2.4V) for a conservative design to ensure current does not exceed the limit. For a 5V supply and target IF of 20mA: Rseries = (5V - 2.4V) / 0.02A = 130 Ohms. A standard 130 or 150 Ohm resistor would be suitable. The bi-color functionality typically requires a 3-pin common-cathode or common-anode configuration, controlled by two separate drive signals.
7.2 Thermal Management
While the power dissipation is low (75mW), continuous operation at high ambient temperatures (>50°C) requires attention. Follow the current derating guideline. Ensure adequate ventilation and avoid placing the indicator near other heat-generating components on the PCB.
7.3 Optical Design
The 45-degree viewing angle and white diffused lens provide a wide, even illumination suitable for front-panel indicators. The black holder offers excellent contrast when unlit. For best visibility, consider the mounting height relative to the panel aperture.
8. Technical Comparison and Differentiation
This product combines several features that differentiate it from basic discrete LEDs:
- Integrated Holder vs. Discrete LED: The pre-assembled right-angle black holder eliminates the need for a separate mounting clip or light pipe, simplifying assembly and improving mechanical stability and contrast.
- Bi-Color in Single Package: Provides two indication colors (Red/Green) in one compact 3-pin package, saving board space compared to using two separate single-color LEDs.
- AlInGaP Technology: Offers high brightness and efficiency with good color saturation, particularly in the red and green spectra, compared to older technologies.
- Tape and Reel Packaging: Enables automated assembly, reducing labor costs and improving placement consistency in high-volume manufacturing.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (Based on Technical Parameters)
9.1 What is the difference between Peak Wavelength and Dominant Wavelength?
Peak Wavelength (λP) is the point of maximum optical power output in the emission spectrum. Dominant Wavelength (λd) is derived from color coordinates and represents the single wavelength of pure spectral light that would be perceived as the same color by the human eye. λd is more relevant for color indication applications.
9.2 Why is there a current derating specification above 50°C?
LED lifetime and light output degrade with increasing junction temperature. The derating curve reduces the maximum allowable drive current as ambient temperature rises. This limits the internal power dissipation (heat) to keep the junction temperature within safe operating limits, ensuring long-term reliability.
9.3 Can I drive this LED with a voltage source without a current-limiting resistor?
No. An LED is a current-driven device. Connecting it directly to a voltage source exceeding its forward voltage will cause excessive current to flow, potentially destroying it instantly. A series resistor or constant-current driver is always required.
9.4 What does the \"Tolerance of each bin limit is ±15%\" mean?
It means the actual dividing line between intensity bins (e.g., between DE and FG) has a manufacturing tolerance of ±15%. A device measured at exactly 140 mcd, the nominal boundary, could be classified into either bin depending on test calibration and lot variation. Designers should use the minimum value of a bin for worst-case brightness calculations.
10. Practical Design and Usage Case Study
Scenario: Designing a status indicator panel for an industrial router. The panel requires a compact, dual-color (Red/Green) indicator for \"Power/Activity\" and \"System Fault.\"
Implementation:
1. The LTLR1DEKVJNNH155T is selected for its integrated right-angle holder (simplifies mounting behind a panel), bi-color capability (saves space), and black housing (provides good contrast).
2. The PCB layout includes three plated through-holes matching the device's lead spacing. The footprint is designed so the holder body sits flush against the PCB edge when bent.
3. A microcontroller GPIO pin drives each color via a simple transistor switch circuit. The current-limiting resistor is calculated as 150 Ohms for a 3.3V system drive ( (3.3V - 2.1V) / 0.008A ≈ 150 Ohms, using 8mA for reduced power and ample brightness).
4. During assembly, the leads are formed using a precision bending tool, ensuring the bend starts >2mm from the holder. The board is then wave soldered, adhering to the 5-second maximum dip time.
5. The final assembly shows a clean, professional indicator with bright, distinct red and green states visible from a wide angle.
11. Operational Principle
Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are semiconductor devices that emit light through electroluminescence. When a forward voltage is applied across the p-n junction, electrons and holes recombine, releasing energy in the form of photons. The color of the emitted light is determined by the bandgap energy of the semiconductor material. This device uses Aluminum Indium Gallium Phosphide (AlInGaP) for both the red and green chips, a material system known for high efficiency in the red-to-yellow-green spectrum. The two chips are housed together under a single white diffused epoxy lens which scatters the light, creating a uniform appearance and widening the viewing angle.
12. Technology Trends and Context
Through-hole LED indicators like this one remain relevant in applications requiring high reliability, ease of manual assembly/service, or robust mechanical mounting. The trend in general LED technology continues towards higher efficiency (lumens per watt), improved color rendering, and miniaturization. For indicator applications, integration is a key trend—combining multiple colors, built-in control ICs (like flashing or RGB drivers), and smarter packaging. Environmentally, the move towards lead-free and RoHS-compliant manufacturing, as seen in this product, is now a global standard. The use of tape and reel packaging for through-hole components bridges traditional assembly methods with modern automated processes.
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. |