Nobel Prize for blue LED draws greater focus on environment

Isamu Akasaki and Hiroshi Amano of Nagoya University, Japan and Shuji Nakamura of University of California at Santa Barbara, have been awarded the 2014 Nobel Prize in physics for the invention of the blue LED.

Though blue LEDs are quite often seen these days on architectural structures, the ability to create blue light with LEDs had eluded scientists for years - without blue light, one cannot create white light. Blue is one of the primary colours required to create white light.

Over the past few years, white LEDs have advanced tremendously in design giving greater light outputs with vast improvements in energy efficiency. In addition to a significant reduction in energy consumption, white LED lighting also reduces the strain on landfill by eliminating the need to constantly replace light globes and fluorescent tubes.

There is no doubt, LEDs are highly energy efficient; however, one must ensure a good quality LED power supply, also known as the LED driver. A poorly designed driver can counteract the efficiency gains associated with LED lighting.

MeanWell is a world leader in designing and manufacturing highly efficient, reliable LED drivers. MeanWell’s HLG series is a favourite amongst OEMs and installers due to its high efficiency rating of up to 96% and high reliability, which is backed by a 5-year warranty.

MeanWell LED drivers are available in Australia from ADM Instrument Engineering .