Black packaged LEDs are sunlight-readable

New from Osram is the Topled Black series of LEDs with lenses that offer high contrast and good legibility in all lighting conditions. Black packaging ensures there are hardly any reflections from incident light. Displays equipped with black-body LEDs are therefore sharp even in strong sunlight, with high contrast and distance legibility. The 60-degree beam angle of the LED has been optimised for display applications, so the light is focused for viewing. The LED is therefore good as a replacement for conventional radial LEDs.

According to Osram, so far, this is also the only LED in a black package to provide the same luminous intensity as a comparable LED in a white package. The Topled Black Series will be initially available in red and yellow. It is equipped with a thin-film chip that guarantees high luminous efficacy. Being 'surface emitters,' thin-film LEDs emit almost all their internally generated light from their surface.

As an SMT component the new LED is suitable for automated handling, which means that displays can be manufactured at lower cost than with radial LEDs. Typical applications include fuel price totem signs, destination displays on trams and buses, and all types of public transport passenger information systems.

For more information, visit www.osram-os.com