28July2010
Battery Powered LED Lights
Light emitting diode technology is making large strides in terms of efficiency and affordability, and therefor are finding wider adoption by many people. LEDs typically use about one tenth of the energy used by traditional light bulbs. Since they’re solid state, they are also far more durable, and will outlast any traditional light bulb currently available.
Light emitting diodes have many uses, and one of the most common is in flashlights and headlamps. You’ll now commonly find battery powered LED lights in flashlights and small, keychain lights, up to large, rechargeable models. Small LED flashlights can last thousands of hours, and are powered far longer on a set of batteries than a traditional flashlight.
Campers and backpackers are often very fond of LED flashlights and headlamps. They’re small and lightweight, and great for hands-free use. Headlamps come in a variety of styles, and quite a range of prices. They’re great for keeping in your car to use in case of emergencies.
In automobiles, LEDs are very popular for tail lights, dashboard lights and other decorative uses. Obviously, since LEDs are so efficient and durable, they’re nearly perfect for use as tail lights. A good set of auto LED lights will usually last for the life of the car, and never need replacement. Since they only emit light in one direction, they’re more difficult to use for head lights. They are gaining traction for this application, however.
Cars, motorcycles and boats are a popular application of LEDs for purely decorative purposes. They can be used in very confined spaces, as they’re so small. They also come in a wide variety of colors, and are commonly used for under car lighting, dashboard lights, and even door handles.
LED lights can be quite useful for boats, for obvious reasons. They’re solid state and very durable, their easily installed, and very energy efficient. As we know, LEDs typically use about ten percent as much energy as a comparable incandescent bulb. One of the best uses of boat led lighting is for navigation lights. For instance, you can replace your bow running lights, port and starboard, with LEDs and use a total of two watts for the same two nautical mile range that’s standard on boats under 65 feet.