Table of Contents
- 1. Product Overview
- 1.1 General Description
- 1.2 Features
- 1.3 Application
- 2. Technical Parameter Interpretation
- 2.1 Electrical and Optical Characteristics (at Ts=25°C, IF=20mA)
- 2.2 Absolute Maximum Ratings
- 3. Binning System
- 4. Performance Curve Analysis
- 4.1 Forward Voltage vs. Forward Current
- 4.2 Forward Current vs. Relative Intensity
- 4.3 Temperature Dependence
- 4.4 Wavelength Shift vs. Current
- 4.5 Spectral Distribution and Radiation Pattern
- 5. Mechanical and Packaging Information
- 5.1 Package Dimensions
- 5.2 Carrier Tape and Reel
- 5.3 Moisture Barrier Packaging
- 6. Soldering and Assembly Guidelines
- 6.1 SMT Reflow Soldering
- 6.2 Hand Soldering and Repair
- 6.3 General Precautions
- 7. Packaging and Ordering Information
- 8. Application Recommendations
- 8.1 Typical Uses
- 8.2 Design Considerations
- 9. Technical Comparison with Competing Products
- 10. Frequently Asked Questions
- 11. Practical Application Case
- 12. Operating Principle
- 13. Development Trends
- LED Specification Terminology
- Photoelectric Performance
- Electrical Parameters
- Thermal Management & Reliability
- Packaging & Materials
- Quality Control & Binning
- Testing & Certification
1. Product Overview
1.1 General Description
The RF-P1S196TS-B51 is a compact dual-color surface-mount LED fabricated using a yellow chip and a yellow-green chip. It comes in a 1.6mm x 1.6mm x 0.7mm package, making it suitable for space-constrained applications. This LED is designed for general-purpose optical indication, switches, symbols, and displays. It supports all standard SMT assembly and soldering processes and is RoHS compliant. The moisture sensitivity level is rated at Level 3 per JEDEC standards.
1.2 Features
- Extremely wide viewing angle (140° typical).
- Suitable for all SMT assembly and solder processes.
- Moisture sensitivity level: Level 3.
- RoHS compliant.
- Small footprint: 1.6mm x 1.6mm.
- Low height: 0.7mm.
1.3 Application
Optical indicators, switch and symbol illumination, display backlighting, and general-purpose signal indication in consumer electronics, automotive interiors, and industrial control panels.
2. Technical Parameter Interpretation
2.1 Electrical and Optical Characteristics (at Ts=25°C, IF=20mA)
The LED provides two color channels: yellow (Y) and yellow-green (YG). Key parameters are specified under test conditions of 20mA forward current and 25°C ambient temperature.
| Parameter | Symbol | Color | Min. | Typ. | Max. | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spectral Half Bandwidth | Δλ | Y / YG | – | 15 | – | nm |
| Forward Voltage | VF | Y | 1.8 | – | 2.4 | V |
| Forward Voltage | VF | YG | 1.8 | – | 2.4 | V |
| Dominant Wavelength | λd | Y (bins D00,E00) | 585.0 / 590.0 | – | 590.0 / 595.0 | nm |
| Dominant Wavelength | λd | YG (bins B10,B20,C10,C20) | 565.0 / 567.5 / 570.0 / 572.5 | – | 567.5 / 570.0 / 572.5 / 575.0 | nm |
| Luminous Intensity | IV | Y (bins 1DW,1AP,G20,1AW) | 70 / 90 / 120 / 150 | – | 90 / 120 / 150 / 200 | mcd |
| Luminous Intensity | IV | YG (bins C00,D00,E00,F00,F20) | 18 / 28 / 43 / 65 / 80 | – | 28 / 43 / 65 / 80 / 100 | mcd |
| Viewing Angle | 2θ1/2 | Both | – | 140 | – | deg |
| Reverse Current (at VR=5V) | IR | Both | – | – | 10 | μA |
| Thermal Resistance (junction to solder point) | RthJ-S | Both | – | – | 450 | °C/W |
2.2 Absolute Maximum Ratings
Exceeding these values may cause permanent damage. Operating beyond recommended conditions is not advised.
| Parameter | Symbol | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Dissipation (per chip) | Pd | 48 | mW |
| Forward Current (DC) | IF | 20 | mA |
| Peak Forward Current (1/10 duty, 0.1ms pulse) | IFP | 60 | mA |
| ESD (HBM) | ESD | 2000 | V |
| Operating Temperature | Topr | -40 ~ +85 | °C |
| Storage Temperature | Tstg | -40 ~ +85 | °C |
| Junction Temperature | Tj | 95 | °C |
3. Binning System
The LED is binned for dominant wavelength, luminous intensity, and forward voltage to ensure consistency. The yellow channel is binned into D00 (585-590nm) and E00 (590-595nm). The yellow-green channel is binned into B10 (565-567.5nm), B20 (567.5-570nm), C10 (570-572.5nm), and C20 (572.5-575nm). Luminous intensity bins for yellow range from 70 to 200 mcd (bins 1DW, 1AP, G20, 1AW), while yellow-green ranges from 18 to 100 mcd (bins C00, D00, E00, F00, F20). Forward voltage is binned into one code (1L) with typical range 1.8-2.4V. Binning information is encoded on the reel label as "BIN CODE" and separate codes for wavelength (WLD) and forward voltage (VF).
4. Performance Curve Analysis
4.1 Forward Voltage vs. Forward Current
At low currents (0-5mA), forward voltage increases rapidly; above 5mA, the slope reduces. The curve is typical for GaP-based LEDs. At 20mA, forward voltage is approximately 2.0V for both chips.
4.2 Forward Current vs. Relative Intensity
Relative intensity increases linearly with forward current up to 20mA, with no saturation observed within the recommended range. Higher current yields higher light output but must remain within absolute maximum ratings.
4.3 Temperature Dependence
Relative intensity decreases as ambient temperature rises. At 100°C, output drops to about 80% of room-temperature value. Forward current derating is necessary above 60°C to avoid exceeding junction temperature limit (95°C). The pin temperature vs. forward current curve shows linear derating from 20mA at 25°C to zero at approximately 115°C.
4.4 Wavelength Shift vs. Current
Dominant wavelength increases slightly with forward current for both colors. For yellow, the shift is from ~589nm at 0mA to ~596.5nm at 30mA. For yellow-green, it shifts from ~567nm to ~575nm over the same current range. This effect is due to junction heating and bandgap narrowing.
4.5 Spectral Distribution and Radiation Pattern
The yellow chip peaks near 590-595nm, the yellow-green chip near 565-575nm. Both have a spectral half bandwidth of about 15nm, providing relatively pure color. The radiation pattern is Lambertian-like with a wide half-angle of 140°, ensuring uniform illumination over a broad area.
5. Mechanical and Packaging Information
5.1 Package Dimensions
The LED package measures 1.6mm (length) × 1.6mm (width) × 0.7mm (height). The top view shows a 1.1mm×0.9mm light-emitting area. The side view shows a 0.3mm substrate thickness. The bottom view indicates four solder pads: pads 1 (cathode for yellow? polarity mark), 2 (anode for yellow), 3 (anode for yellow-green), 4 (cathode for yellow-green). The recommended soldering pattern uses a 0.8mm pad pitch and 0.6mm pad spacing. Polarity is indicated by a corner mark (pin 1 identification).
5.2 Carrier Tape and Reel
Tape dimensions: width 8.0mm, pitch 4.0mm, pocket size 1.83×1.83mm, depth 0.95mm. Reel diameter: 178mm (7 inches), width 8.0±0.1mm, hub diameter 60±1mm, arbor hole 13.0±0.5mm. Each reel contains 4000 pieces. The reel label includes part number, spec number, lot number, bin code, quantity, and date.
5.3 Moisture Barrier Packaging
The reel is sealed in a moisture barrier bag with desiccant and a humidity indicator card. The outer box is a standard cardboard carton for mechanical protection. Storage conditions: before opening, ≤30°C and ≤75% RH for up to 1 year from date of production; after opening, ≤30°C and ≤60% RH for 168 hours. If storage conditions are exceeded, baking at 60±5°C for >24 hours is required.
6. Soldering and Assembly Guidelines
6.1 SMT Reflow Soldering
Lead-free reflow profile: preheat from 150°C to 200°C for 60-120 seconds; ramp-up to 217°C (TL) at max 3°C/s; maintain above 217°C for 60-150 seconds; peak temperature 260°C with time above 260°C (tp) max 10 seconds; cooling rate max 6°C/s. Total time from 25°C to peak temperature should not exceed 8 minutes. Do not perform reflow more than twice. If interval exceeds 24 hours between reflows, baking is required.
6.2 Hand Soldering and Repair
Hand soldering: iron tip temperature ≤300°C, duration ≤3 seconds, one time only. Repair after reflow should be avoided; if necessary, use a double-head soldering iron and verify LED functionality.
6.3 General Precautions
- Do not mount LEDs on warped PCBs or bend the board after soldering.
- Avoid mechanical stress or vibration during cooling after soldering.
- Do not rapidly cool the device after soldering.
- Use appropriate cleaning agents (isopropyl alcohol recommended); avoid ultrasonic cleaning.
- The operating environment should limit sulfur compounds to <100 ppm, bromine to <900 ppm, chlorine to <900 ppm, and total halogens to <1500 ppm to prevent LED damage.
- Use proper ESD control measures; the LED is rated for 2kV HBM.
7. Packaging and Ordering Information
Standard packaging: 4000 pieces per reel in tape and reel format. The outer box contains multiple reels (quantity may vary). Each reel is labeled with part number, spec number, lot number, bin codes (for wavelength and intensity), quantity, and date code. The moisture barrier bag includes a desiccant pack and a humidity indicator to monitor exposure. Ordering should specify the desired bin combination for wavelength and intensity if tight tolerance is required.
8. Application Recommendations
8.1 Typical Uses
Ideal for status indicators, pushbutton backlighting, small displays, and any application requiring two colors in a tiny footprint. The wide viewing angle makes it suitable for edge-lit or diffused panels.
8.2 Design Considerations
- Heat dissipation: Given thermal resistance of 450°C/W, adequate PCB copper area and vias are recommended to maintain junction temperature below 95°C. Derate forward current if ambient temperature exceeds 60°C.
- Current limiting: Always use series resistors to prevent thermal runaway. A small change in voltage (e.g., 0.1V) can cause significant current variation due to the steep IV curve.
- Reverse voltage protection: Ensure the driving circuit does not apply reverse bias, as it may damage the LED.
- Compatibility with adhesives: Avoid adhesives that outgas organic vapors, which can discolor the silicone encapsulation.
- Cleaning: If cleaning is required, isopropyl alcohol is safe; avoid solvents that attack the package.
9. Technical Comparison with Competing Products
Compared to other dual-color 1.6×1.6mm LEDs, the RF-P1S196TS-B51 offers a very wide viewing angle (140° vs typical 120°) and a low thermal resistance (450°C/W is competitive for this package size). The binning options provide 2 wavelength bins for yellow and 4 for yellow-green, allowing customers to select narrow color ranges. The absolute maximum ESD rating of 2kV is standard for chip LEDs. The inclusion of explicit halogen and sulfur handling guidelines indicates robust reliability engineering. Some competing products may offer higher intensity bins but often at the cost of narrower viewing angle or higher voltage. Overall, this LED balances performance, size, and reliability well for general indication.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I drive both chips simultaneously? Yes, both yellow and yellow-green chips can be operated independently or together. Total drive current should not exceed the absolute maximum rating for each chip.
Q: What is the recommended current for best lifetime? Operating at 15-20mA ensures good brightness and long life. Derating is needed at high ambient temperatures.
Q: How should I handle the silicone encapsulation? Avoid touching the lens surface directly; use tweezers on the side of the package. Silicone is soft and can attract dust.
Q: What if the moisture barrier bag is flatulent? If the bag is swollen, the desiccant may be exhausted. Bake the LEDs at 60±5°C for >24 hours before use.
Q: Can I use this LED in outdoor applications? The operating temperature range (-40 to +85°C) allows outdoor use, but direct exposure to UV, high humidity, or corrosive gases should be avoided. Proper conformal coating may be needed.
11. Practical Application Case
Two-Color Status Indicator in a Smart Home Thermostat: A compact thermostat uses the dual-color LED to indicate system status: yellow for heating, yellow-green for cooling. The wide 140° viewing angle ensures visibility from across the room. The small 1.6mm footprint fits into a slim bezel. The thermostat uses an MCU to control each channel via separate GPIO pins with current-limiting resistors. To manage heat, the PCB includes a small copper pad under each LED with thermal vias. The LED is reflow-soldered along with other surface-mount components using the standard profile. The moisture sensitivity is managed by using fresh, unopened reels. Over 1000 hours of life testing at 20mA showed no degradation, confirming reliability.
12. Operating Principle
This dual-color LED integrates two separate LED chips: one yellow (AlGaInP/GaP, wavelength ~590nm) and one yellow-green (GaP, wavelength ~570nm) in a single epoxy or silicone package. Each chip has its own anode and cathode connections. When forward current flows through a chip, electrons and holes recombine in the p-n junction, emitting photons with energy corresponding to the bandgap of the semiconductor material. The light is extracted through the transparent encapsulant. By controlling the current to each chip independently, either color can be produced, or both can be operated simultaneously to create a blended color (e.g., orangeish). The wide beam angle is achieved through a diffusing encapsulant or lens design.
13. Development Trends
The market for dual-color SMD LEDs continues to evolve toward smaller packages (e.g., 1.0×1.0mm) and higher efficacy. Newer materials like InGaN on silicon are being developed for green and blue, but for yellow and yellow-green, AlGaInP remains dominant due to high efficiency. Integration of multiple chips in one package with finer binning and tighter tolerance is expected. Additionally, enhanced reliability against sulfur and halogen exposure is becoming standard, as seen in this datasheet's explicit limits. The trend toward automotive and industrial applications demands wider operating temperature ranges and improved thermal management, which this product partially addresses with its 95°C junction temperature. Future designs may incorporate thermal pads directly underneath the chip to reduce thermal resistance below 300°C/W.
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. |