SMD Top View LED 67-21 Series Datasheet - P-LCC-2 Package - 2.7-4.3V - 25mA - Brilliant Green - English Technical Document

1. Product Overview

The 67-21 series is a family of SMD (Surface Mount Device) top view LEDs designed for indicator and backlighting applications. This specific variant, identified as 67-21/GHC-BV1/2T, emits a brilliant green color. The device is housed in a P-LCC-2 (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) package, which features a colorless clear resin encapsulation. A key design feature is the integrated inter-reflector within the package, which optimizes light coupling and results in a wide 120-degree viewing angle. This characteristic makes the LED particularly suitable for use with light pipes, where efficient light transmission is critical. The device is engineered for low current operation, making it an ideal choice for power-sensitive applications such as portable electronic equipment.

1.1 Core Features and Advantages

• Package: Standard P-LCC-2 surface mount package.
• Optics: Designed as an optical indicator with colorless clear resin for pure color output.
• Viewing Angle: Exceptionally wide 120-degree viewing angle.
• Performance: High-performance light output.
• Assembly: Compatible with IR reflow soldering processes.
• Reliability: Preconditioning is based on JEDEC J-STD-020D Level 3 standards for moisture sensitivity.
• Compliance: The product is Pb-free (lead-free), compliant with the EU RoHS directive, EU REACH regulations, and is Halogen Free (Br<900ppm, Cl<900ppm, Br+Cl<1500ppm).

1.2 Target Applications

The 67-21 series LEDs are versatile components suitable for a broad range of applications:

• Automotive: Backlighting for dashboard instruments and switches.
• Telecommunications: Status indicators and backlighting in telephones and fax machines.
• Display Technology: Flat backlighting for LCD panels, switches, and symbols.
• Light Guidance: Ideal for light pipe applications due to the wide viewing angle and optimized light coupling.
• General Use: Any application requiring a reliable, bright indicator LED.

2. Technical Parameter Analysis

This section provides a detailed, objective interpretation of the key electrical, optical, and thermal parameters defined in the datasheet. Understanding these limits and characteristics is essential for reliable circuit design.

2.1 Absolute Maximum Ratings

These ratings define the stress limits beyond which permanent damage to the device may occur. Operation at or near these limits is not recommended for extended periods.

• Reverse Voltage (V_R): 5 V. Exceeding this voltage in reverse bias can cause junction breakdown.
• Continuous Forward Current (I_F): 25 mA. The maximum DC current that can be applied continuously.
• Peak Forward Current (I_FP): 100 mA (at 1/10 duty cycle, 1 kHz). Suitable for short pulse operation but not for DC.
• Power Dissipation (P_d): 110 mW. The maximum power the package can dissipate, calculated as V_F * I_F.
• Operating Temperature (T_opr): -40 to +85 °C. The ambient temperature range for normal operation.
• Storage Temperature (T_stg): -40 to +90 °C.
• ESD (HBM): 150 V. This is a relatively low ESD rating, indicating the device is sensitive to electrostatic discharge. Proper ESD handling procedures are mandatory.
• Soldering Temperature: Reflow: 260°C peak for 10 seconds max. Hand soldering: 350°C for 3 seconds max per terminal.

2.2 Electro-Optical Characteristics

These are the typical performance parameters measured at a forward current (I_F) of 20 mA and an ambient temperature (T_a) of 25°C. They define the light output and electrical behavior under normal operating conditions.

• Luminous Intensity (I_v): 715 mcd (Min), 1120 mcd (Max). This is the measure of perceived brightness to the human eye. The wide range indicates the device is binned (see Section 3).
• Viewing Angle (2θ_1/2): 120 degrees (Typical). The angle at which the luminous intensity is half of the peak intensity. Confirms the wide viewing angle claim.
• Peak Wavelength (λ_p): 518 nm (Typical). The wavelength at which the spectral power distribution is maximum.
• Dominant Wavelength (λ_d): 523.5 nm (Min), 533.5 nm (Max). This wavelength corresponds to the perceived color (green) and is also binned.
• Spectral Bandwidth (Δλ): 35 nm (Typical). The width of the emitted spectrum at half the maximum power (FWHM).
• Forward Voltage (V_F): 2.7 V (Min), 4.3 V (Max) at 20mA. The voltage drop across the LED when conducting. This range necessitates current-limiting circuitry.
• Reverse Current (I_R): 50 µA (Max) at V_R=5V. The small leakage current when the device is reverse-biased.

Parameter Tolerances: The datasheet specifies additional tolerances: Luminous Intensity (±11%), Dominant Wavelength (±1nm), and Forward Voltage (±0.1V). These must be factored into worst-case design scenarios.

3. Binning System Explanation

To ensure consistent color and brightness in production, LEDs are sorted into bins based on key parameters. The 67-21 series uses a two-dimensional binning system.

3.1 Dominant Wavelength (Color) Binning

LEDs are grouped by their dominant wavelength, which directly affects the perceived hue of the green light. The bins are labeled B13 through B17.

• B13: 523.5 nm to 525.5 nm
• B14: 525.5 nm to 527.5 nm
• B15: 527.5 nm to 529.5 nm
• B16: 529.5 nm to 531.5 nm
• B17: 531.5 nm to 533.5 nm

This allows designers to select LEDs with a very specific shade of green for applications where color consistency is critical.

3.2 Luminous Intensity (Brightness) Binning

LEDs are also sorted based on their light output at 20mA. The bins are labeled V1 and V2.

• V1: 715 mcd to 900 mcd
• V2: 900 mcd to 1120 mcd

Selecting a higher bin (V2) ensures brighter indicators. For applications requiring uniform panel brightness, LEDs from the same intensity bin should be used.

4. Mechanical and Package Information

4.1 Package Dimensions

The LED is housed in a standard P-LCC-2 package. The detailed dimensional drawing provides critical measurements for PCB (Printed Circuit Board) land pattern design, including body size, lead spacing, and overall height. Adherence to these dimensions is necessary for proper placement and soldering. The typical tolerance for unspecified dimensions is ±0.1 mm.

4.2 Polarity Identification

As a two-terminal device, correct polarity is essential. The datasheet's top-view diagram shows the cathode identifier (typically a notch, green dot, or other marking on the package). Connecting the LED in reverse bias will prevent it from lighting and, if the reverse voltage exceeds 5V, may damage the device.

5. Soldering and Assembly Guidelines

Proper handling and soldering are crucial for reliability, especially given the device's moisture sensitivity level (MSL 3).

5.1 Storage and Handling

• Components are shipped in moisture-resistant bags with desiccant.
• The bag must only be opened immediately before use.
• The recommended environment after opening is <30°C and <60% Relative Humidity.
• If the moisture sensitivity indicator card shows excessive moisture, the components must be baked at 60°C ±5°C for 24 hours before use.
• The device is sensitive to ESD (150V HBM). Use appropriate ESD-safe workstations and handling procedures.

5.2 Reflow Soldering Profile

The datasheet provides a detailed Pb-free reflow soldering temperature profile:

• Pre-heating: 150-200°C for 60-120 seconds (ramp rate ≤3°C/sec).
• Time Above Liquidus (217°C): 60-150 seconds.
• Peak Temperature: 260°C maximum, held for a maximum of 10 seconds.
• Ramp-down: Cooling rate should not exceed 6°C/sec above 255°C.

Critical Notes:

• Reflow soldering should not be performed more than two times.
• Avoid mechanical stress on the LED during heating and cooling.
• Do not warp the PCB after soldering.

5.3 Hand Soldering

If hand soldering is necessary:

• Use a soldering iron with a tip temperature <350°C.
• Limit contact time to ≤3 seconds per terminal.
• Use an iron with a power rating ≤25W.
• Allow a minimum 2-second interval between soldering each terminal to prevent overheating.
• Hand soldering carries a higher risk of thermal damage.

5.4 Rework and Repair

Repair after the LED is soldered is strongly discouraged. If unavoidable:

• A dual-head soldering iron must be used to heat both terminals simultaneously, preventing stress on the solder joints.
• The potential for damaging the LED's characteristics during rework must be evaluated beforehand.

6. Packaging and Ordering Information

6.1 Tape and Reel Specifications

The components are supplied on embossed carrier tape wound onto reels for automated pick-and-place assembly.

• Packing Quantity: 2000 pieces per reel.
• Detailed dimensions for the carrier tape pockets, reel hub, and overall reel are provided to ensure compatibility with assembly equipment.

6.2 Label Explanation

The reel label contains key information for traceability and verification:

• CPN: Customer's Product Number
• P/N: Manufacturer's Product Number (e.g., 67-21/GHC-BV1/2T)
• QTY: Packing Quantity
• CAT: Luminous Intensity Rank (e.g., V1, V2)
• HUE: Dominant Wavelength Rank (e.g., B15)
• REF: Forward Voltage Rank
• LOT No: Manufacturing Lot Number for traceability.

7. Application Design Considerations

7.1 Circuit Design

Current Limiting is Mandatory: The forward voltage (V_F) has a wide range (2.7V-4.3V). A small change in supply voltage can cause a large, potentially destructive change in current if only a simple series resistor is used. For stable operation and longevity, a constant current driver or a carefully calculated current-limiting resistor is essential. The resistor value (R) can be approximated using Ohm's Law: R = (V_supply - V_F) / I_F. Always use the maximum V_F from the datasheet for a worst-case design to ensure the current does not exceed 25mA.

7.2 Thermal Management

While the power dissipation is low (110mW max), maintaining the junction temperature within limits is important for long-term reliability and stable light output. Ensure adequate PCB copper area or thermal vias, especially if operating at high ambient temperatures or near the maximum current.

7.3 Optical Design for Light Pipes

The 120-degree viewing angle and integrated inter-reflector make this LED an excellent source for light pipes. For optimal efficiency:

• Position the LED as close as possible to the light pipe input surface.
• Align the LED centrally under the light pipe.
• Consider using a reflective surface or cavity around the LED to capture and redirect side-emitted light into the pipe.

8. Technical Comparison and Differentiation

The 67-21 series differentiates itself in the market of SMD indicator LEDs through several key attributes:

• Wide Viewing Angle vs. Standard LEDs: Many standard SMD LEDs have viewing angles around 60-80 degrees. The 120-degree angle of the 67-21 series provides much broader visibility, which is a distinct advantage for panel indicators and light pipe applications.
• Optimized for Light Pipes: The specific mention of an "inter reflector" for optimized light coupling is a design feature targeted at a common application challenge, setting it apart from generic LEDs.
• Comprehensive Compliance: Meeting RoHS, REACH, and Halogen-Free standards makes this device suitable for a wide range of global markets and environmentally conscious designs.
• Detailed Binning: The two-parameter (wavelength and intensity) binning provides designers with a high level of control over color consistency and brightness uniformity in their products.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (Based on Technical Parameters)

Q1: Why is a current-limiting resistor absolutely necessary?
A1: LEDs are current-driven devices. Their V-I curve is exponential. Without a resistor, a small increase in supply voltage above the LED's V_F causes a very large, uncontrolled increase in current, quickly exceeding the 25mA absolute maximum rating and leading to thermal runaway and failure.

Q2: Can I drive this LED with a 3.3V supply?
A2: Yes, but careful design is needed. Using the typical V_F of ~3.5V (between min and max), a 3.3V supply may not be sufficient to forward-bias the LED properly, especially for units with a V_F at the higher end of the range (4.3V). It is recommended to use a supply voltage at least 0.5-1.0V higher than the maximum expected V_F to ensure stable current regulation by the series resistor.

Q3: What does "MSL Level 3" mean for my production process?
A3: Moisture Sensitivity Level 3 means the packaged device can be exposed to factory floor conditions (<30°C/60% RH) for up to 168 hours (7 days) after the sealed bag is opened before it requires baking. If not soldered within this timeframe, the absorbed moisture can vaporize during reflow soldering, causing internal delamination or "popcorning," which destroys the component.

Q4: How do I select the right bin (CAT and HUE) for my application?
A4: For applications where multiple LEDs are visible together (e.g., a status light bar), select the same HUE (wavelength) bin to ensure identical color. For applications requiring specific brightness levels, select the appropriate CAT (intensity) bin. For critical applications, consult with the supplier to specify the exact bins required.

10. Operational Principles and Technology Trends

10.1 Basic Operating Principle

This LED is a semiconductor diode based on InGaN (Indium Gallium Nitride) chip material. When a forward voltage exceeding its threshold is applied, electrons and holes recombine in the active region of the semiconductor, releasing energy in the form of photons (light). The specific composition of the InGaN alloy determines the bandgap energy, which in turn defines the peak wavelength of the emitted light—in this case, in the green spectrum (~518-533 nm). The colorless clear resin encapsulation protects the chip and acts as a lens, shaping the light output to achieve the wide 120-degree viewing angle.

10.2 Industry Trends

The development of SMD indicator LEDs like the 67-21 series follows several key industry trends:

• Miniaturization and Standardization: The use of standard packages like P-LCC-2 allows for automated assembly and reduces board space.
• Increased Efficiency: Ongoing improvements in semiconductor epitaxy and chip design lead to higher luminous intensity (mcd) for the same input current, enabling brighter indicators or lower power consumption.
• Enhanced Reliability and Compliance: There is a strong drive towards Pb-free soldering, halogen-free materials, and compliance with global environmental regulations (RoHS, REACH), as evidenced in this datasheet.
• Application-Specific Optimization: Rather than being generic components, LEDs are increasingly designed with specific applications in mind, such as the inter-reflector in this device for light pipe efficiency.

Disclaimer and Application Restrictions: This product is intended for general indicator and backlighting applications. It is not designed or qualified for high-reliability applications where failure could lead to personal injury or significant property damage, such as military/aerospace systems, automotive safety systems (e.g., brake lights, airbag indicators), or life-critical medical equipment. For such applications, components with appropriate qualifications and reliability data must be selected. The specifications and typical curves provided are for reference; performance is guaranteed only within the stated absolute maximum ratings and operating conditions.