Why Datasheets Matter
A lighting datasheet is the definitive technical reference for a luminaire. For specifiers, engineers, and procurement teams, the ability to read and compare datasheets is essential for making informed product decisions. This guide walks through each section of a professional datasheet.
1. Photometric Data
The most important section for lighting designers. Key values to check:
- Luminous flux (lm): Total light output of the complete luminaire (not just the LED chip)
- Luminous efficacy (lm/W): Efficiency ratio — higher is better. Premium commercial products: 130–180 lm/W
- Light distribution (polar diagram / IES file): Shows how light is distributed in space. Narrow beam for accent lighting; wide beam for general illumination
- UGR (Unified Glare Rating): Measures glare discomfort. UGR <19 required for offices; UGR <22 for industrial
2. Electrical Specifications
- Input voltage: Confirm compatibility with local supply (220–240V AC for most markets)
- Power factor (PF): Should be >0.9 for commercial installations
- THD (Total Harmonic Distortion): Should be <20% to avoid interference with other equipment
- Driver type: Integrated vs. external; replaceable vs. non-replaceable
- Dimming protocol: DALI-2, 0-10V, Triac, or non-dimmable
3. Thermal and Mechanical Data
- Operating temperature range: Critical for outdoor and industrial applications
- IP rating: Ingress protection against dust and water
- IK rating: Impact resistance (important for public spaces)
- Material and finish: Aluminium die-cast, polycarbonate, stainless steel
- Weight and dimensions: Essential for structural and installation planning
4. Lifetime and Reliability
- L70B50: The standard way to express LED lifetime. L70 = when output drops to 70% of initial; B50 = 50% of units still meet this threshold. Typical: L70B50 >50,000 hours
- MacAdam ellipses (SDCM): Color consistency. SDCM ≤3 is required for retail and hospitality
5. Certifications
Always verify the relevant certifications for your market:
- CE: Required for EU/UK markets
- RoHS: Restriction of hazardous substances
- UL/ETL: Required for North American markets
- ENEC: European certification for safety
- Zhaga: Interoperability standard for LED modules and drivers