CFL/CCFL/LED lights

[Taiwan Luthiers]

Back when all they had was incandescents, it was simple, if you wanted more light you get higher watt light bulbs. Now there are so many types of CFL/CCFL lights that is confusing.

I notice that the CFL tubes comes in different diameters, according to B&Q the smaller the tube diameter, the more efficient it is (based on T number, the bigger the number, the bigger the tube diameter). Is that really the case?

I searched for information on CFL specs but all they talk about are color temp, shape, and base size but nothing about how tube size affects thing.

[finley]

The most important selection criterion, with any of these technologies, is how long the driver circuit will last. Most of them are absolute shite, which will die before the actual tube (or LED array) does.

Basically, if you pay a bit more money you're likely to get something that lasts more than six months.

Efficiency is all much the same - they're all so good (even ordinary CFLs) that a couple of percent here and there is of no importance.

[Taiwan Luthiers]

The most important selection criterion, with any of these technologies, is how long the driver circuit will last. Most of them are absolute shite, which will die before the actual tube (or LED array) does.

Basically, if you pay a bit more money you're likely to get something that lasts more than six months.

Efficiency is all much the same - they're all so good (even ordinary CFLs) that a couple of percent here and there is of no importance.

So can anyone recommend a good brand, are Philip any good (sometimes they can be on promotion and end up being cheaper than the "cheap" brands)

[finley]

Philips usually outsource both design and production, so they're a bit hit-and-miss. Try something Japanese.

[Taiwan Luthiers]

The most important selection criterion, with any of these technologies, is how long the driver circuit will last. Most of them are absolute shite, which will die before the actual tube (or LED array) does.
_____________________________________
Led light tubes

Someone already said this. But then how would you know the quality of the driver circuit? I am guessing of all the brands you can buy easily in Taiwan (sold at Carrefour/B&Q/etc) probably all use the same driver circuit regardless of brand.

[Mick]

The most important selection criterion, with any of these technologies, is how long the driver circuit will last. Most of them are absolute shite, which will die before the actual tube (or LED array) does.
_____________________________________
Led light tubes

Someone already said this. But then how would you know the quality of the driver circuit? I am guessing of all the brands you can buy easily in Taiwan (sold at Carrefour/B&Q/etc) probably all use the same driver circuit regardless of brand.

dinfog908 has left the building. However, the driver circuits vary and are evolving with companies like TI, Phillips, developing integrated IC's dedicated for this purpose. Although I would think it is hard for the consumer to know which have well designed drivers against poorly designed.

One thing that will greatly reduce the life of an led is the heat. A well designed bulb will have a method to regulate power to the leds and should be on the packaging, this at least shows the manufacturer took some steps to maximize to life cycle of the bulb.