Max. lamp power
The highest power of the light source (lamp) with which the luminaire can operate normally. For models that do not use replaceable lamps (usually LED, see "Light source"), this item indicates the nominal power of the light source; for devices with several lamps or LEDs — the total maximum power (for example, for three 60 W bulbs this figure will be 180 W).
This limitation is due to the fact that more powerful lamps emit more heat (with the exception of LED, where heat generation is minimal) and consume more electricity; this puts forward the corresponding requirements for the heat resistance of the luminaire body and the reliability of the wiring. Therefore, recommendations for power cannot be exceeded — this can lead to failure and even fire of the lamp.
In general, the
higher the maximum power, the brighter the lamp will be and the higher its power consumption. However, only models with the same type, in extreme cases, similar light sources, can be compared according to this indicator (see above). In addition, it is worth considering other design features — in particular, the angle of illumination (narrowly directional models usually use reflectors that increase the apparent brightness of light compared to non-directional ones).
Luminous flux
The luminous flux, nominally given out by the lamp (in models with replaceable bulbs — when using lamps of maximum power).
The
higher the value of the light flux, the brighter the glow will be, the farther the lamp will turn out and the easier it will be for it to cover a vast space (at the same lighting angles). However, the number of lumens is a rather specific parameter and is rarely required in fact, mainly for special purposes. It is easier for many to evaluate the capabilities of a lamp using special tables in which the luminous flux is related to the overall brightness of light, lighting range, etc. Here is one of the simplest tables — luminous flux values for the most popular incandescent lamps:
— a 40 W lamp produces approximately 370 lm;
— 60 W — 550 lm;
— 75 W — 800 lm;
— 100 W — 1200 lm;
— 150 W — 1900 lm;
— 200 W — 2700 lm.
That is, for example, if an LED lamp produces 1800 lumens, its capabilities approximately correspond to a 150-watt light bulb. In everyday life, it is often easier to evaluate the brightness of fixtures in this way.
Note that the principle “the more the better” in the case of brightness is not always applicable. And the point here is not only in energy consumption: too bright light can be uncomfortable, and even harmful to the eyes.
Illumination angle
The angle of illumination provided by the luminaire, in other words, the size of the sector in which the luminous flux diverges.
With the same power and type of light source (see above), a wider angle of illumination allows you to cover more space, but the brightness (and, therefore, the overall efficiency) of the illumination is reduced. A narrower angle, in turn, limits the illuminated space, but the brightness and "range" of the lamp are higher. Accordingly, the choice for this parameter depends on what is more important — a concentrated stream of light or a wide coverage.
Specifying lighting angles is customary for models that illuminate the sector less
than 180 °. There are also more wide-angle products — for example, lampposts and many garden bollards (see "Type") are capable of covering a full 360°; however, for them, the angle of illumination is not given — it is obvious from the design. And in the most narrowly focused modern lamps, this indicator is about 30 – 40 °; these are, usually, spotlights designed for special purposes (for example, decorative or security lighting).
Diode model
Model of light-emitting diodes (LED) installed in the corresponding luminaire (see "Light source"). Specified only for models with built-in LED blocks, without standard plinths (any suitable LED lamp can be installed in them). In general, this parameter is not particularly relevant when choosing: if you wish, you can find detailed characteristics for diodes and evaluate their capabilities, but in fact it is easier to focus on simpler and more visual parameters stated in the general characteristics of the lamp — luminous flux, colour temperature, etc. . In reality, data on the model of LEDs can be useful only when replacing failed LEDs.
Protection class
Class of protection against dust and moisture, which corresponds to the body of the lamp.
Since in this case we are talking about luminaires intended for use on the street or in similar conditions (or at least allowing it), this parameter is one of the most important — it determines the suitability of the luminaire for installation in a particular place. For the same performance, better-protected models tend to be more expensive, although there is not always a real need for protection. For example, for a garden column, the ability to tolerate showers is extremely important, and for a wall lamp in the “nook” of a closed veranda, such properties are not required.
The ingress protection class is traditionally indicated according to the IP standard. The two digits in this designation describe the resistance to dust / pollution (first), and moisture (second).
Here are the dust protection options found in modern fixtures:
— 2. Protection against the penetration of objects with a diameter of more than 12 mm (comparable to a human finger). The minimum level at which certification is generally considered justified.
— 3. Protection against objects with a size of 2.5 mm or more.
— 4. Protection against objects and particles with a size of 1 mm or more.
— 5. Complete protection against foreign objects, protection of sensitive components from dust (dust can penetrate into the case, but does not affect performance).
—...6. Full dust-tight housing.
For water protection, options can be as follows:
— 0. Complete lack of protection. Water on the case will not necessarily lead to an "accident", but there are some places on the outside that moisture should not be allowed to enter.
— 1. Protection against drops of water falling vertically.
— 2. Protection against drops of water falling at an angle up to 15°. Allows without consequences to endure falling under not very heavy rain without wind.
— 3. Protection against drops of water falling at an angle up to 60°. Ability to endure heavy rain.
— 4. Protection against splashes falling on the device from any direction. You can talk about resistance to showers.
— 5. Protection against pressure jets from any direction. Almost guaranteed ability to endure rain of any intensity.
— 6. Protection against strong jets, sea waves and short-term flooding (getting into the water for 1 – 2 seconds). Also called "anti-storm".
— 7. Protection against short-term immersion in water to a depth of 1 m (without continuous operation in immersed mode). It can be useful on embankments, intensively flooded with water in bad weather
— 8. Full tightness, the ability to endure diving to a depth of at least 1 m for a duration of at least 30 minutes (specific values \u200b\u200bmay be different) with the ability to work in submerged mode. In the case of lighting fixtures, it is relevant primarily for areas that may be subject to flooding.