The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), Rosslyn, Va., has published LSD 51-2009, "Solid-State Lighting—Definitions for Functional and Decorative Applications." This new white paper illustrates and clarifies the differences between functional and decorative solid-state lighting (SSL) luminaires and provides guidelines for the specification of the major characteristics, performance criteria, and evaluation process needed for these products. It is designed to provide useful information to the public and may also assist the government and other groups in SSL specification development.
LSD 51-2009 was prepared by the NEMA Next Generation Lighting Alliance (NGLIA), the NEMA Solid State Lighting Section, and the American Lighting Association, Dallas. “LSD 51 opens a discussion regarding the harmonization of technology, energy efficiency, and aesthetics with regard to SSL luminaires,” says Jianzhong Jiao, Ph.D., chair of the SSL Technical Committee. “A goal of the document was to support the need for energy-saving products without impeding future technological growth in the lighting industry. Furthermore, this document provides a basis of consistency and rationale for establishing new industry standards and government specifications relating to solid-state lighting applications.”
The document may be downloaded from the NEMA Web site.