The evolution of LED and beyond

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Rajeev Singh | 07 Mar, 2011
Lighting technology still remains uncharted territory entity. Thomas Edison’s invention is passé; tech innovators are constantly working on greener ideas. The lighting industry was a witness to the sudden emergence of solid-state light source, which saw its best in the form of light-emitting diode (LED). The immediate aftermath gave wings to future design possibilities.

The Organic light-emitting diode (OLED) soon made a deeper impact on the mainstream market as a fine replacement to all major light sources. LED bulbs are becoming popular, as they prove to be a smart replacement for age-old bulbs. The Illuminating Engineering Society of North America joined hands with the Next Generation Lighting Industry Alliance, in accordance to the US Department of Energy Building Technologies Program, to embark on the same and hence achieve and make some effective products that could shape the future by optimum use of LED lighting. The enticing range of colors and lumen output has made LED the first choice for the masses. From indicators to traffic signals, to televisions, tech minds have constantly been over delivering so as to make lives simpler. Before the market witnessed the launch of 3D TVs, LED Televisions had been the talk of the town. Taiwanese electronic giant BenQ was among the few who made effective use of LED backlighting, getting rid of the CCFL technology to carve out their exciting range of LCD monitors. Boasting higher dynamic contrast and features like flicker free screen, LED monitors soon moved up the ladder in the market.

All devices based are on solid-state lighting giving them the potential to operate on low-voltage DC power and hence an easily operated medium for anyone to use it extensively. These devices when grouped respond at temperatures which is as low as -40°C. Multiple applications find their use in effectively using LED due to the absence of infrared as well as ultraviolet energy radiation. Hence, LED fits the bid to be more environmental friendly and mingles well with the new ecological regulations, which have made mercury and led an object that is meant for disposal.

Speaking of economy, the outdoor lighting happens to be the first general illumination application, which have made the future bright and paved the way smooth for future improvement. LED street lights carry a “light engine” usually having an output of 80 lumens per watt. This is inarguably a rewarding phase in terms of expenses, if we compare it to a normal HID lamp, which can burn for about 15,000 to 25,000 hours. With the government regulations forcing the use of more efficient light sources, LED definitely has a bright future ahead. One of the very basic advantages of LED over other lighting objects is its easy way to mold things in the best possible shape and sizes. LED takes a different route to emit light from multiple frames and not just one particular frame or source. As a bonus, they offer a chance to be shaped into concrete materials to be used in the edge of glass or light panels.

The presence of LED also makes it capable of putting a check on CO2 emissions. LED is definitely the revolutionary road to future. Through innovative technology in display and complete positioning of series of LED monitors, BenQ is the world’s first company to adopt VA panel technology onto their LED monitors, being alluring and efficient at the same time.

LED is the future of technology, but like they say, every technology, has its own drawbacks. High manufacturing costs, accompanied by heat dissipation, are some of the major challenges that further research into this technology has to overcome. The cost structure for the LED products is also an important fact to consider where direct production can only light up the way. The inspiring part of the story finds its way in the form of lower-cost production LED; inarguably the finest choice when everyone is looking forward to walk the greener patches on earth.

* The author is General Manager, BenQ India, participant company of Taiwan Excellence, TAITRA.
* The views expressed by the author in this feature are entirely his/her own and do not necessarily reflect the views of SME Times.