Introduction to Solid-State Lighting (LEDs)
Credits: 3 PDH
Course Description:
LEDs (Light-Emitting Diodes) are semiconductor devices that emit light through electroluminescence. This basic fact is the foundation for many of the advantages of LEDs, since the source of LED light is different from traditional light sources. Some of the potentially favorable characteristics of LEDs compared to traditional lamps include directional light emission, wide size and form factor choice, resistance to mechanical failure (i.e., breaking), instant “on” at full output, rapid on-off cycling capability without detrimental effects, improved performance at cold temperatures, dimming and control capability, opportunity for color tuning, minimal nonvisible radiation [e.g., ultraviolet (UV), infrared (IR)], and extended lifetime.But even though LEDs have advantages over traditional lamps, generalized comparisons are often misrepresentative. For example, no matter how much energy can be saved using an LED, if the product does not meet all the performance requirements of a given application, it is not a good design choice. This course describes the characteristics of LEDs and discusses situations where LEDs would be appropriate and other situations where traditional light sources should be chosen instead. Health and safety issues of LEDs are also discussed.
Topics:
- Using LEDs to their best advantage
- Knowing how to establishing LED equivalency
- Knowing about LED lifetime and reliability characteristics
- Understanding the characteristics of general service LED lamps
- Learning about optical safety of LEDs
- Knowing about aspects of lighting related to health
- Understanding flicker
- Learning about energy efficiency of LEDs
To take this course:
1.) Enroll in Course:Click below to enroll:
(must be logged into your user account)
Download the Study Guide
3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.
Take the final exam
4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.
NOTE: After the exam is completed, you will need to return to this page, in order to print (download) the certificate of completion.
Print the Certificate of Completion
Intended Audience: This course is intended for mechanical, civil, and transportation engineers concerned with the design and maintenance of lighting systems for buildings and outdoor facilities.
Publication Source: US Dept of Energy
Mark Rossow PhD, PE (retired)