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light source that will provide proper quantity and quality of light for the task. The fixture protects
the light source, connects it to the power source and distributes its light. In this article, we will
review the basic factors that go into specifying a light source and a fixture.
The light source is the actual light-producing component of the lighting system. It may operate
simply as a lamp (incandescent/halogen) or as a lamp powered by a ballast/ driver (fluorescent,
LED and high-intensity discharge [HID]).
Incandescent Lamps
• Warm color appearance with a low color temperature and excellent color rendering (CRI
100)
• Must be properly shielded because incandescent lamps can produce direct glare as a
point source
• Require proper line voltage as line voltage variations can severely affect light output and
service life
Fluorescent Lamps
• Require a ballast
• Cooler operation
• Ambient temperatures and convection currents can affect light output and life
• All fixtures installed indoors must use a Class P ballast that disconnects the ballast in the
event it begins to overheat; high ballast operating temperatures can shorten ballast life
• Low temperatures can affect starting unless a "cold weather" ballast is specified
HID Lamps
• Require a ballast
• Ambient temperature does not affect light output, although low ambient temperatures can
affect starting, requiring a special ballast
• Range of color temperatures and color rendering abilities depending on the lamp type
• Line voltage variations, possible line voltage drops, and circuits sized for high starting
current requirements must be considered
LEDs
• Durable
• Instant on
• Dimmable
• Silent operation
Below is a checklist for specifying the right lamp for the application:
• Light output
• Input wattage
• Size
• Surface brightness
• Color characteristics
See also Fluorescent Light Sources, Incandescent Light Sources, HID Light Sources, Demanding
Environments, Color Metrics, Industrial Light Source and Fixture Selection, Lighting Metrics
A luminaire, often called a light fixture, is a complete lighting unit that produces and distributes
light. It contains the light source, a ballast if the lamp is fluorescent or HID, components designed
to diffuse or distribute the light in a controlled pattern, components to protect and position the
lamp(s), and a connection to the power source.
The light fixture's basic function is to produce and distribute light to fulfill the design goals for the
lighted space. Below is a checklist for specifying the right fixture for the job.
First, the specifier must fully understand the demands of the application and conditions in the
space that will affect the operation of the lighting system:
• Hours of operation
• Maintenance schedule
• Availability of daylight
See also Lighting Audits, Demanding Environments, Planned Lighting Maintenance, Lighting
Design: Basic Principles
Now the most appropriate light source can be selected, followed by the fixture. The specifier must
understand the factors affecting fixture selection:
• Distribution pattern
• Glare control
• Finish
• Appearance
• Size
• Aesthetics