LEDs

LEDs (light Emitting Diodes) are highly efficient light sources which generate visible illumination when an electric current flows through them. Unlike incandescent bulbs which lose much of their energy as heat, LEDs produce minimal heat, making them a more energy-efficient option.

The brightness of LED lights will depend on the amount of power emitted from the diodes, or twin terminal structures, located on the insides. At RS NZ, we supply LEDs in different formats including through-hole and surface-mount types (SMD) like the popular ChipLED. We also provide a diverse range of other LED options, including TopLED, SideLED, SmartLED, PointLED, and the Firefly series.

Types of LED Diodes

LEDs come in a wide variety of types, each with its own unique features and applications. Here's a brief overview of some of the most common types:

Standard LEDs

These are the most common type of LED, available in a wide range of colours and sizes. They are used in everything from indicator lights and displays to general illumination.

Flashing LEDs

These LEDs contain an integrated circuit that causes them to flash on and off at a specific frequency. They are often used as warning lights or attention-grabbing indicators.

Bi-color and Tri-color LEDs

These LEDs contain two or three different LED chips in a single package, allowing them to emit different colours. Bi-color LEDs typically emit red and green light, while tri-color LEDs can emit red, green, and blue light. They are often used in displays and indicators where multiple colours are needed.

RGB LEDs

These LEDs contain red, green, and blue LED chips in a single package, allowing them to produce a wide range of colours by mixing the light from the three chips. They are often used in colour displays, mood lighting, and decorative applications.

Infrared LEDs

Infrared LEDs emit infrared light, which is invisible to the human eye. They are used in a variety of applications, including remote controls, night vision equipment, and data communication.

Ultraviolet LEDs

These LEDs emit ultraviolet light, which has shorter wavelengths than visible light. They are used in applications such as sterilisation, curing of materials, and medical treatments.

Features of Electronic LEDs

LEDs possess several key features that make them a popular choice for various electronics applications:

• Energy Efficiency: LEDs are highly efficient in converting electrical energy into light. This results in significant energy savings.
• Longevity: LEDs have a remarkably long lifespan, often lasting tens of thousands of hours.
• Durability: Being solid-state devices, LEDs are resistant to shock, vibration, and temperature fluctuations, making them more durable than incandescent and fluorescent lamps.
• Compact Size: The small size of LEDs allows for greater design flexibility and integration into various electronics applications, from miniature electronics to large-scale displays.
• Color Variety: LEDs are available in a wide spectrum of colours, including various shades of white, making them suitable for diverse applications.
• Low Heat Output: LEDs generate minimal heat, reducing the risk of burns and making them suitable for use in heat-sensitive environments.

Uses of LEDs

Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) have become ubiquitous due to their versatility and advantages. Here are some of their key applications:

• Indicator Lamps: LEDs are widely used as indicator lights in various electronic devices and appliances, signalling power status, activity, or alerts. LEDs are also critical components for LED tower lights used in manufacturing plants.
• Signs and Displays: LEDs are used extensively in signs. They also provide backlighting for screens in TVs, computers, smartphones, and other devices. LEDs can also be found in seven-segment displays to show numbers in devices like calculators and digital clocks.
• Consumer Electronics: LEDs are found in a wide range of consumer electronics like calculators, digital watches, smart devices, and remote controls.
• Flashing LEDs: These LEDs are commonly used as attention-grabbing or warning indicators. They are operated by multivibrator circuits that cause them to flash at preset intervals. (See our Panel Mount - Flashing LEDs for examples.)
• Automotive Industry: LEDs are used in car headlights, taillights, interior lighting, and dashboard displays.
• Aviation: LEDs are used in aircraft lighting, both internal and external, for navigation, warning signals, and cabin illumination.
• Residential and Commercial Lighting: LEDs are increasingly used for general lighting in homes, businesses, and even street lighting due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and reduced maintenance needs.
• Communication Technologies: LEDs are used in fibre optic communication systems to transmit data as light signals.
• Medical Devices: LEDs are used in various medical applications, including diagnostic equipment, surgical lighting, and therapeutic devices.
• Horticulture: Deep blue LEDs are used in horticultural lighting to promote plant growth and development.

Explore Our Range of LEDs Today

As a trusted supplier and distributor of electronic components, RS NZ offers a comprehensive selection of light emitting diodes (LEDs) to meet diverse application needs. We provide a broad range of visible and high-brightness LEDs in all colours, as well as RGB LEDs, sourced from leading manufacturers such as RS PRO, ams Osram, Broadcom, Kingbright, Lite-On, Lumileds, Nichia, ROHM, Vishay, and Wurth Elektronik.

Ordering & Delivery Information for NZ

RS NZ offers a hassle-free purchasing experience, with an expansive online catalogue that ensures you can easily find the right LED or power indicator light for your next electronics project. We are also committed to ensuring fast and efficient delivery across New Zealand. For more details on delivery services, estimated delivery times, and required fees, please visit our Delivery Information page.