[Rhodes22-list] LED Navigation Lights available from Ancor

[John Lock]

At 01:45 PM 8/1/2006 -0400, Michael D. Weisner wrote:
>The website that you cited (otherpower) has some very interesting methods of
>measuring LED luminance, ignoring the nature of the emitted light.  While
>they claim that the lumens/watt generated by an LED are not any greater than
>those of a standard incandescent lamp, they have overlooked several
>important facts that make LEDs a valuable lamp replacement.

I think that's only for "white" LEDs.  Colored LEDs use much less 
power per lumen (still trying to find that figure).  Since that page 
is comparing other white-light sources, the numbers are not what you 
might expect.

>The problem with a "bulb replacement" LED product is that you may 
>not be able to
>properly aim the LED output, being at the mercy of the orientation of the
>bulb socket.  This is why some of us have opted for a complete running light
>(or anchor light) replacement unit and may be the reason for the non-marine
>classification of the bulb replacement unit.

Exactomundo - that's the point I was trying to get to in fewer words ;-)

>Secondly, when properly installed, LEDs should give considerable power
>saving over incandescent lamps as a result of the collimination of the light
>output.  Less lumens are required to cover the same distance and make the
>point source of light appear brighter (without any reflector or lens), even
>if they are not.

True, when you need a point source of light (as for reading).  Not 
suitable for navigation.  But for cabin lighting, I'd think one of 
the T8 compact fluorescent units would have greater coverage at less 
power consumption.  Yes?

>Lastly, LED light sources require little if any routine maintenance.  There
>is no filament to burn out and if designed properly, they will outlast the
>useful life of a boat.

That is a big plus, especially for masthead mountings.  I suspect the 
LED would outlast the boat itself!

Cheers!

John

"What flavor milkshake?" -- Food Dispenser   "Beer." -- Lister