March 14, 2011

The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has published two new solid-state lighting standards: NEMA SSL 1-2010 “Electronic Drivers for LED Devices, Arrays, or Systems” and NEMA SSL 6-2010 “Solid State Lighting for Incandescent Replacement—Dimming”.

With these publications, NEMA says it has established harmonized requirements and expectations for solid-state lighting (SSL), such as LEDs. Both are directed toward designers, manufacturers and users of SSL products.

SSL 1, produced by NEMA’s Solid State Lighting Section, covers electronic drivers for SSL/LED products. Electronic drivers use semiconductors to control and supply DC power for LED starting and operation. Topics covered include ratings, performance, and marking. SSL 1 also provides specifications guidance for electromagnetic immunity, audible noise, and efficiency calculations.

SSL 1 Working Group Leader Tom Stimac of GE Lighting Solutions said, “SSL 1 is the first in a series of NEMA SSL standards aimed at setting the foundation for quality and performance of LED systems, specifically LED drivers. LED drivers are used in every system today and the ability to verify key performance and quality aspects will be pivotal in achieving high efficiency and quality LED lighting systems”.

SSL 6, produced by NEMA’s Lighting Controls and Solid State Lighting Sections, focuses on integrated LED lamps intended for retrofit into systems that previously used incandescent screw base lamps. The standard addresses dimming of these products and the interaction between the dimmer (control) and the bulb (lamp), and introduces requirements to help ensure good diming performance and prevent damage to either component.

SSL 6 Working Group Leader Dr. Robert Nachtrieb of Lutron Electronics said, “SSL 6 is the first NEMA standard to tackle head-on the importance of dimming energy-efficient LED lamps that will replace incandescent bulbs. Building on the solid industry consensus we forged for SSL 6, NEMA will continue to develop standards for other applications of LED dimming”.

The contents and scope of SSL 1 may be viewed, or a hardcopy or electronic copy purchased for $50 US, by visiting www.nema.org/stds/ssl1.cfm. For SSL 6, also $50 US, go to www.nema.org/stds/ssl6.cfm.

CLICK HERE for NEMA.