Backlights are frequently used in TVs, computer monitors, tablets, smartphones and other display devices. Even if a display device is labeled as “liquid-crystal display,” it probably still uses a backlight to produce illumination. In recent years, however, more and more display devices have begun using light-emitting diode (LED) backlights.
What Is a LED Backlight?
An LED backlight is a backlighting solution consisting of an array of individual LEDs. They typically come in one of two forms: white and RGB. White LED backlights are fused in computer monitors and mobile devices. The term “white LED” is somewhat of a misnomer, though, because it doesn’t actually produce white light. Rather, it produces blue LED that’s altered using yellow-colored phosphor compounds.
The other type of LED backlight, RGB, use an array of red, blue and green LEDs. They are used in high-end display devices to achieve a superior level of illumination.
Energy Efficient
One of the reasons why LED backlights have become so popular is because of their energy-efficient properties. They consume significantly less power than other types of backlights, making them a popular choice for energy-hungry devices.
Small Size
In addition to being energy efficient, LED backlights are available in small sizes. According to Wikipedia, LEDs can be as small a 2 mm. As a result, LED backlights don’t consume a lot of space, allowing manufacturers to create smaller display devices with a slimmer profile.
Longevity
Of course, the benefits of LED backlights don’t end there. In most cases, LED backlights will last longer than other types of backlights. According to one report, the average LED backlighting system lasts for 35,000 to 50,000 hours of continuous use. Depending on the application, you may never even reach this length of time, meaning your LED backlights may last forever.
Low Heat
LED backlights are often considered safer than other types of backlights because they don’t produce a lot of heat. Granted, LEDs are completely cool. They still produce heat when creating illumination. When compared to other types of backlights, though, LEDs produce significantly less heat, thereby lowering the risk of a fire.
The bottom line is that LED backlights offer numerous advantages, some of which include greater energy efficiency, a smaller size, increased lifespan and low heat production. For these reasons and others, manufacturers are using more LED backlights in their display devices.
