Help with LED SMD comparison

[Diode Dynamics]

We have added a new research section to our site also: http://www.diodedynamics.com/store/research.html

It's a great resource for enthusiasts who want to learn more about automotive lighting technology and some things to look out for

Nick C.

[KI_ZN6]

Originally Posted by White64Goat

I'm not sure what 'K' the factory BRZ headlights are, but here are my fog light LED's from HID Powerhouse and they match. I'm sure Ken can tell you what these fog replacements are. I know the FR-S is set up different as far as lighting goes, but he can probably tell you what 'K's' are what and get you matched up.
Attachment 70128

Thanks! Glad you hear you are happy with your G's Super White LED Foglights on your BRZ

[Diode Dynamics]

Originally Posted by soundman98

i don't know where the '1210' number comes from, as that number is usually the height and width of the led chip-- that's where the 5050 comes from-- 5.0mm x 5.0mm....

Originally Posted by Acree

And 1210 LED package means 0.12 inches by 0.10 inches.

That's the most common assumption, but it's not completely accurate. 3.5mm is .13 inches, not .12.

1210 is the name of a standard package size, which is measured in inches. It corresponds to 3225 metric, not 3528. 3528 is a different package size that is technically called PLCC-2, but people love referring to the size.

However they're close enough in size to fit on the same solder pads on PCBs- 3528-packaged LEDs were created in Asia, and the package replaced American 1210 packages- which is why the PLCC-2 is now known as 3528 and 1210. You can still find actual 1210 package LEDs but they're pretty rare.

TL;DR = 1210 and 3528 are not actually the same thing, but everyone calls 3528 both names now.

To the OP, 3528 vs 5050 has nothing inherently to do with brightness, quality, color, or anything else. So it depends completely on the design of the bulb. 5050 chips have higher efficacy in general, and in my experience this allows for design of bulbs with higher reliability. Generally 3528/1210 bulbs are designed poorly to achieve the same brightness levels, and get too hot.

Sorry, just noticed this is an old thread but maybe it will be useful to someone else!

Paul

[Acree]

Great post.