As an industry professional with nearly 15 years of experience in the lighting sector, I have witnessed first-hand the journey from traditional lighting solutions to cutting-edge LED technology. My complete background equips me with the knowledge and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of today's lighting world.
In the current landscape, technical specifications and advanced technology are paramount. Even the most basic high-bay or lay-in luminaires now incorporate the latest LED innovations. It's crucial to collaborate with companies that have invested in understanding this technology, ensuring you can select lighting solutions with confidence.
When I first entered the lighting industry, fluorescents and HIDs were the norm. The connection between import manufacturing and North American lighting companies was limited, and Blackberrys were still widely used. The introduction of bright white LEDs revolutionized general illumination, transforming the industry from a mature commodity market into a dynamic, fast-paced technological arena.
In the past, manufacturers relied on standardized ballasts and lamps, mass-produced through decades of optimization. A failure meant simply calling the ballast manufacturer, whose phone number was conveniently printed on the ballast label. Today, the LED landscape is vastly different. We encounter a myriad of LED package sizes, formulations, dies, and materials, combined in countless ways on variable PCBs and paired with power supplies tailored to specific product needs. Efficacies have soared from 60 to 200 lm/W in just a decade, and improvements in CRI and CCT allow us to offer light that matches the sun's spectrum or regulates circadian activity. With advanced optics, we can precisely direct light to meet our illumination requirements.
At our Technology Center, we tackle these challenges head-on, managing all aspects of technical specifications, certifications, and performance. Our on-site test lab ensures the highest levels of performance and reliability. We continuously research new technologies to integrate into our luminaires, oversee certifications and performance ratings, and support all areas of the business in navigating the increasingly technical world of lighting. As part of the Leviton – Certolux Visioneering family, we are proud to support our partners and drive innovation in the industry.