The application possibilities for COB LEDs encompass a wide range. While these devices could be used for higher output general lighting, the primary use for COB LEDs would be as solid-state lighting (SSL) replacements for metal-halide lamps in applications such as high-bay lighting, street lights, and high-output track lights and downlights.
Figure 2 shows the basics required to get a COB LED powered up. This illustration uses an Excelsys Technologies LXC42-1050SW driver to provide a constant 1.05 A to a Citizen CLU721 Series COB LED.
With an input voltage range of 90 to 305 VAC, the driver is capable of supplying up to 1.05 A to the COB LED (which, in this case, has a test current of 1.05 A and a maximum rating of 1.38 A) and will not be damaged by over-driving it. Additionally, when drivers are run closer to their maximum capacity (in this example 39.48 W out of a 42 W maximum), they operate with a higher efficiency, contributing towards less losses in the overall system.
Conclusion
The use of COB LEDs in lighting applications is increasing as designers realize the benefits of using them over the traditional standard LED options. With their ability to pack more LED sources into a smaller space for increased lumen output, their ability to transfer heat more effectively to a heatsink, the lower failure rates due to their simpler construction, their lower light loss, and their increased viewing angle, it is hard to not consider them for any lighting application design.
