Table of Contents
- 1. Product Overview
- 1.1 Features
- 1.2 Applications
- 2. Technical Specifications
- 2.1 Electrical and Optical Characteristics (at Ts=25°C, IF=350mA)
- 2.2 Absolute Maximum Ratings
- 2.3 Bin Ranges (at IF=350mA)
- 2.4 Typical Optical Characteristics Curves
- 2.4.1 Forward Voltage vs. Forward Current
- 2.4.2 Forward Current vs. Relative Intensity
- 2.4.3 Solder Temperature vs. Relative Intensity
- 2.4.4 Radiation Pattern
- 2.4.5 Spectrum Distribution
- 3. Mechanical Information
- 3.1 Package Dimensions
- 3.2 Recommended Soldering Pattern
- 3.3 Polarity Identification
- 4. Packaging Information
- 4.1 Packaging Specification
- 4.2 Label Information
- 4.3 Storage Conditions
- 5. Soldering Guidelines
- 5.1 Reflow Soldering Profile
- 5.2 Hand Soldering
- 5.3 Cautions
- 6. Application and Design Considerations
- 6.1 Thermal Management
- 6.2 ESD Protection
- 6.3 Chemical Compatibility
- 6.4 Circuit Design
- 7. Reliability and Quality Assurance
- 7.1 Reliability Test Items
- 7.2 Failure Criteria
- 8. Principle and Technology Development
- 8.1 Working Principle
- 8.2 Development Trends
- LED Specification Terminology
- Photoelectric Performance
- Electrical Parameters
- Thermal Management & Reliability
- Packaging & Materials
- Quality Control & Binning
- Testing & Certification
1. Product Overview
The RF-A4E27-R22H-S4 is a high-performance red LED designed for automotive interior and exterior lighting applications. It utilizes AlGaInP (Aluminum Gallium Indium Phosphide) semiconductor technology to achieve efficient red light emission with a dominant wavelength ranging from 617.5nm to 627.5nm. The device is housed in a compact EMC (Epoxy Molding Compound) package measuring 2.75mm x 2.0mm x 0.6mm, enabling thin and lightweight designs. Key features include an extremely wide viewing angle (120 degrees), compatibility with standard SMT assembly processes, and compliance with AEC-Q102 stress test qualification for automotive grade discrete semiconductors. The LED is also RoHS compliant and has a moisture sensitivity level of 2 (MSL2), making it suitable for high-reliability applications.
1.1 Features
- EMC package for robust mechanical and thermal performance.
- Extremely wide viewing angle of 120° for uniform light distribution.
- Suitable for all SMT assembly and solder processes.
- Available on tape and reel (4000pcs/reel).
- Moisture sensitivity level: Level 2 (per JEDEC).
- RoHS compliant and meets AEC-Q102 qualification.
1.2 Applications
- Automotive interior lighting (e.g., dome lights, ambient lighting).
- Automotive exterior lighting (e.g., tail lights, brake lights, turn signals).
- Other general lighting where high reliability and wide viewing angle are required.
2. Technical Specifications
2.1 Electrical and Optical Characteristics (at Ts=25°C, IF=350mA)
| Parameter | Symbol | Min | Typ | Max | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forward Voltage | VF | 1.8 | — | 2.4 | V |
| Reverse Current | IR | — | — | — | μA |
| Luminous Flux | Φ | 37 | — | 55.3 | lm |
| Dominant Wavelength | Wd | 617.5 | — | 627.5 | nm |
| Viewing Angle | 2θ1/2 | — | 120 | — | deg |
| Thermal Resistance | RTHJ-S | — | 20 | — | K/W |
The forward voltage is measured at 350mA with a tolerance of ±0.1V. The device is not designed for reverse operation. Luminous flux tolerance is ±10%. Dominant wavelength tolerance is ±0.005 (for chromaticity coordinates). All measurements are performed under Refond’s standardized testing environment.
2.2 Absolute Maximum Ratings
| Parameter | Symbol | Rating | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power Dissipation | PD | 1200 | mW |
| Forward Current | IF | 500 | mA |
| Peak Forward Current (1/10 duty, 0.1ms) | IFP | 700 | mA |
| Reverse Voltage | VR | Not designed for reverse operation | V |
| Electrostatic Discharge (HBM) | ESD | 8000 | V |
| Operating Temperature | TOPR | -40 to +105 | °C |
| Storage Temperature | TS | -40 to +105 | °C |
| Junction Temperature | TJ | 125 | °C |
It is crucial to never exceed these limits. The forward current should be derated based on solder temperature to keep the junction temperature below 125°C. The device can withstand 8000V ESD (HBM) with a yield rate over 90%; however, proper ESD protection measures must be taken during handling.
2.3 Bin Ranges (at IF=350mA)
The product is shipped in specified bins for forward voltage, luminous flux, and dominant wavelength to ensure consistency within production lots.
- Forward Voltage Bins: B1 (1.8-1.9V), B2 (1.9-2.0V), C1 (2.0-2.1V), C2 (2.1-2.2V), D1 (2.2-2.3V), D2 (2.3-2.4V).
- Luminous Flux Bins: NA (37-40.9 lm), NB (40.9-45.3 lm), OA (45.3-50 lm), OB (50-55.3 lm).
- Dominant Wavelength Bins: D2 (617.5-620nm), E1 (620-622.5nm), E2 (622.5-625nm), F1 (625-627.5nm).
2.4 Typical Optical Characteristics Curves
The following curves provide insight into the LED’s performance under various conditions:
2.4.1 Forward Voltage vs. Forward Current
The forward voltage increases with current in a typical diode-like manner. At 350mA, VF is approximately 2.0-2.1V. The curve shows a linear rise from 1.8V to 2.4V over the current range.
2.4.2 Forward Current vs. Relative Intensity
Relative luminous intensity rises with forward current. At 350mA, the intensity is about 100%. Increasing current beyond 500mA is not recommended due to thermal constraints.
2.4.3 Solder Temperature vs. Relative Intensity
Higher solder temperature reduces light output. For example, at 105°C, relative intensity drops to approximately 60% of the value at 25°C.
2.4.4 Radiation Pattern
The LED has a wide lambertian-like radiation pattern with a half angle of 120°, providing uniform illumination across a broad area.
2.4.5 Spectrum Distribution
The peak emission is in the red region around 620-630nm, with a narrow spectral width typical of AlGaInP devices.
3. Mechanical Information
3.1 Package Dimensions
The LED package measures 2.75mm (length) × 2.00mm (width) × 0.60mm (height). The top view shows a light-emitting area of 1.57mm × 2.00mm. The bottom view reveals two cathode/anode pads with dimensions 0.48mm × 1.60mm and 0.54mm × 1.25mm, consistent with polarity markings. All dimensions have a tolerance of ±0.2mm unless otherwise noted.
3.2 Recommended Soldering Pattern
To ensure proper heat dissipation and mechanical strength, a specific PCB land pattern is recommended. The pattern includes two rectangular pads with a pitch of 1.70mm and additional thermal pads. Dimensions for the pads are 0.70mm × 1.10mm and 0.72mm × 0.55mm.
3.3 Polarity Identification
The anode and cathode are marked on the package. The bottom view shows a clear polarity indicator. Care must be taken to align the LED correctly during assembly.
4. Packaging Information
4.1 Packaging Specification
The LEDs are supplied in tape and reel packaging with 4000 pieces per reel. The carrier tape has a typical pitch of 4.0mm, and the reel diameter is 180mm with a hub diameter of 60mm. Each reel is sealed in a moisture barrier bag with a desiccant and a humidity indicator card.
4.2 Label Information
The label includes part number (RF-A4E27-R22H-S4), specification number, lot number, bin code, luminous flux bin, chromaticity bin, forward voltage bin, wavelength code, quantity, and date code.
4.3 Storage Conditions
Before opening the moisture barrier bag, LEDs should be stored at ≤30°C and ≤75% RH for up to 1 year from the date of manufacturing. After opening, the LEDs should be used within 24 hours under ≤30°C and ≤60% RH. If storage exceeds 24 hours, baking at 60±5°C for ≥24 hours is required before use.
5. Soldering Guidelines
5.1 Reflow Soldering Profile
Only two reflow cycles are allowed. The recommended profile includes: ramp-up rate ≤3°C/s, preheat 150-200°C for 60-120s, time above 217°C ≤60s, peak temperature 260°C with maximum duration of 10s, and cooling rate ≤6°C/s. Total time from 25°C to peak should not exceed 8 minutes.
5.2 Hand Soldering
If hand soldering is necessary, use a soldering iron with tip temperature ≤300°C for less than 3 seconds, and perform only once.
5.3 Cautions
- Do not apply mechanical stress on the silicone lens during or after soldering.
- Avoid warping the PCB before or after soldering.
- Do not use rapid cooling after reflow.
- Use appropriate pick-and-place nozzles to avoid damaging the soft silicone surface.
6. Application and Design Considerations
6.1 Thermal Management
Since the LED’s performance degrades with increasing junction temperature, adequate heat sinking is essential. The thermal resistance from junction to solder point is 20K/W. Designers should ensure that the solder temperature does not exceed the derating curve to keep Tj below 125°C.
6.2 ESD Protection
Although the LED can withstand 8000V HBM, ESD protection during handling and assembly is mandatory. Use grounded workstations, conductive mats, and wrist straps.
6.3 Chemical Compatibility
Avoid exposure to sulfur-containing compounds (≤100ppm), bromine (≤900ppm), chlorine (≤900ppm), and total halogens (≤1500ppm). VOCs from surrounding materials may cause silicone discoloration and light output loss. Isopropyl alcohol is recommended for cleaning if needed.
6.4 Circuit Design
Always include a current-limiting resistor to prevent excessive current. The forward voltage varies across bins; ensure the resistor value is chosen accordingly. The LED is not designed for reverse bias.
7. Reliability and Quality Assurance
7.1 Reliability Test Items
| Test Item | Condition | Time/Cycles | Ac/Re |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reflow Soldering | 260°C, 10s | 2 times | 0/1 |
| Thermal Shock | -40°C to +125°C, 15min dwell, 10s transfer | 1000 cycles | 0/1 |
| High Temperature Storage | 125°C | 1000 hrs | 0/1 |
| Low Temperature Storage | -40°C | 1000 hrs | 0/1 |
| Life Test | 25°C, IF=350mA | 1000 hrs | 0/1 |
| High Temp High Humidity Life | 85°C/85%RH, IF=350mA | 1000 hrs | 0/1 |
| High Temp High Humidity Storage | 85°C/85%RH | 1000 hrs | 0/1 |
7.2 Failure Criteria
After testing, the LED is considered failed if the forward voltage exceeds 1.1 times the upper specification limit (U.S.L), reverse current exceeds 2.0 times U.S.L, or luminous flux drops below 0.7 times the lower specification limit (L.S.L). The values for U.S.L and L.S.L are defined per the product specification.
8. Principle and Technology Development
8.1 Working Principle
This red LED is based on AlGaInP heterostructures grown on a substrate. When forward biased, electrons and holes recombine in the active region, emitting photons in the red spectrum. The peak wavelength is determined by the composition of the semiconductor layers. The EMC package provides protection and efficient heat transfer.
8.2 Development Trends
Automotive lighting is evolving towards higher efficiency, smaller form factors, and greater reliability. LEDs like the RF-A4E27-R22H-S4 with AEC-Q102 qualification meet the stringent requirements of automotive environments. Future trends include further miniaturization, higher lumen output per watt, and improved thermal performance through advanced packaging technologies.
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. |