LED Indication - Discrete

Part Number	Description / PDF	Quantity
COM-11450 SparkFun	LED RGB CLEAR T/H	122
COM-11449 SparkFun	LED RGB CLEAR T/H	36
COM-11451 SparkFun	LED RGB CLEAR T/H	43
COM-11120 SparkFun	LED RGB DIFFUSED T/H	1724
COM-11453 SparkFun	LED RGB CLEAR T/H	4
COM-11448 SparkFun	LED RGB CLEAR T/H	223
COM-11452 SparkFun	LED RGB CLEAR T/H	144
COM-09853 SparkFun	LED - RGB CLEAR COMMON CATHODE (	0
COM-10820 SparkFun	LED - RGB CLEAR COMMON ANODE	0
COM-14560 SparkFun	LED RED 5MM T/H 25PK	0
COM-14562 SparkFun	LED BLUE 5MM T/H 25PK	0
COM-14561 SparkFun	LED YELLOW 5MM T/H 25PK	0
COM-10818 SparkFun	LED - RGB DIFFUSED COMMON ANODE	0
COM-10821 SparkFun	LED - RGB DIFFUSED COMMON ANODE	0
COM-11679 SparkFun	LED - RGB 5MM SQUARE (PIRANHA)	0
COM-09852 SparkFun	LED RGB DIFF COMMON CATHOD 25PC	0
COM-00105 SparkFun	LED - RGB CLEAR COMMON CATHODE	0
COM-14563 SparkFun	LED GREEN 5MM T/H 25PK	0
COM-09264 SparkFun	LED - RGB DIFFUSED COMMON CATHOD	0
COM-10819 SparkFun	LED - RGB CLEAR COMMON ANODE (25	0

LED Indication - Discrete

1. Overview

Discrete Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are single-chip optoelectronic devices that convert electrical energy into light through electroluminescence. This product category forms the foundation of modern indication systems, offering advantages including low power consumption, long lifespan, and high reliability. Their importance spans across consumer electronics, industrial equipment, automotive systems, and communication infrastructure.

2. Major Types and Functional Classification

Type	Functional Characteristics	Application Examples
Visible LEDs	Emits light in visible spectrum (400-700nm), available in multiple colors	Indicator lamps, display backlighting, decorative lighting
Infrared LEDs	Emits 700nm-1mm wavelength radiation, invisible to human eye	Remote controls, security sensors, night vision systems
High-Brightness LEDs	Enhanced luminous intensity (>1000mcd) with advanced packaging	Automotive lighting, outdoor displays, emergency signage
UV LEDs	Ultraviolet spectrum emission (280-400nm)	Sterilization equipment, counterfeit detection, curing systems

3. Structure and Composition

Typical discrete LED construction includes:

Die: Semiconductor chip (GaN/InGaN for blue/green, AlGaInP for red)
Encapsulation: Epoxy or silicone lens for light extraction and protection
Lead Frame: Copper or iron alloy for electrical connection and heat dissipation
Phosphor Coating: Used in white LEDs for wavelength conversion
Reflective Cup: Optimizes light directionality

4. Key Technical Parameters

Parameter	Significance	Typical Range
Wavelength	Determines light color and application suitability	375nm-940nm
Luminous Intensity	Measures brightness output (mcd)	50-10,000mcd
Forward Current	Operating current rating	20-150mA
Forward Voltage	Electrical potential drop	1.8-3.6V
Viewing Angle	Light emission spread measurement	5 -120

5. Application Fields

Primary application sectors include:

Consumer Electronics: Mobile phone indicators, keyboard backlighting
Automotive: Dashboard indicators, brake light systems
Industrial: Machine status indicators, safety signage
Medical: Diagnostic equipment indicators, phototherapy devices
Telecommunications: Network equipment status lights

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

Manufacturer	Product Series	Key Features
Cree Inc.	XLamp XP-G3	High brightness (3200mcd), 120 viewing angle
OSRAM Opto	OSTAR Projection	High-power LED for automotive lighting
Nichia Corp.	NSHU5991	UV LED (365nm) for curing applications
Everlight Electronics	LTST-C19HE8WT	Tri-color LED for RGB indication

7. Selection Recommendations

Key consideration factors:

Spectral Requirements: Match wavelength to application needs
Environmental Conditions: Temperature range (-40 C to +85 C typical)
Power Constraints: Select appropriate current/voltage ratings
Optical Design: Consider lens type and viewing angle
Reliability: Check MTTF (Mean Time to Failure) specifications

Industry Development Trends

Current technology directions include:

Miniaturization: Development of micro-LED ( LED) with dimensions <50 m
Efficiency Improvement: Targeting >300lm/W efficacy for visible LEDs
Smart Integration: Incorporating driver ICs and sensors in LED packages
Material Innovation: GaN-on-silicon substrates for cost reduction
Regulatory Compliance: RoHS/REACH compliant packaging materials