Types of LEDs
There are 3 main types of LEDs.
- Miniature LEDs
- Alphanumeric LEDs and
- Lighting LEDs
Miniature LEDs
Miniature LEDs are mainly single die LEDs and come in various shapes and sizes. The most common shapes in which miniature LEDs are available are:
- Round, flat top
- Rectangular, flat top
- Round, dome top
- Square, flat top
- Triangular, flat top
Various sizes in which miniature LEDs are available are:
- 5 mm
- 3 mm
- 2 mm
Miniature LEDs are also available in other sizes but are mostly made for a specific application.
Alphanumeric LEDs
These are used for displays where there is a requirement of displaying numbers and letters. Alphanumeric LEDs are available in starburst format and 7 segment type. The 7 segment based LED display can show all the numbers and few letters, whereas starburst LEDs based display can show all the letters.
The usage of Alphanumeric LEDs have come down greatly and is replaced by LCDs that can be used for displaying both numbers and letters and also few other things.
Lighting LEDs
Lighting LEDs come in many shapes and are mostly used for lighting in homes. These are a cluster of LEDs put together into the shape of a light bulb. There are many types of Lighting LEDs that can operate on 120-240 volts AC power but have limited availability in the market.