Led faq

[LEDReef]

DMAS: we have been revamping the web page and will be adding FAQs about LEDs and related topics. We will be posting them on here to try to answer your questions as well...

This is the start of it.

Q: Are 3 watt LEDs the best LEDs to use for aquarium lighting?
A: No. 1 and 3 watt LEDs are not worth the money with the significantly higher lumen efficacy of newer LEDs that have a smaller footprint. Most people and companies use them becuase they are cheap and available from many manufacturers. The first thing to note is the wattage rating is not set to any specific standard and does not necessarily fit the standard P=IR formula for wattage. The wattage rating really does not mean much and the actual amount of light can vary significantly from manufacturer to manufacturer.
EXAPLE: A standard three watt cool white LED at 700 MA emits about 80 Lumens, and at 1000 MA it emits about 120 lumens. These ratings are at 25 degrees C with a 3.9 voltage drop voltage. As a comparison to what Unique LED Lighting uses now: Phillips Luxeon K2 with TFFC - they have a minimum luminus flux of 180 lumens at 1,000 MA with a drop voltage of 3.65. Meaning that if the three watt LEDs have 120 lumens at 1 amp - roughly 40 lumens = 1 watt then the LEDs we use are 4.5 watt LEDs (assuming a 25 degree C operating temperature). The drop voltage on the K2s with TFFC is 3.65 instead of 3.9 meaning there is additional added efficiency there. So you get 50% more light consuming the less power. Furthermore at the end of February 2010: Unique LED Lighting is making the switch to Phillips Luxeon Rebel LEDs which have a minimum luminus flux of 180 lumens at 700 MA. Meaning that they will emit 50% more light output thatn 3 watt LEDs while consuming 30% less power. That is Smart LED Lighting the Unique LED Lighting way!