| a.f.f. |
“Above
Finished Floor” - commonly used abbreviation when specifying the mounting height of
fixtures, ceilings, etc |
| accent lighting |
directional
lighting used to emphasize particular object or area. It focuses the observer's attention |
| acrylic |
clear,
translucent or white plastic material used to produce optical elements for light fixtures,
i.e. lenses, louvers and refractors |
| acrylic lens |
flat
plastic panel installed in the fixture to visually cover the lamps, and to lower glare by
redirecting or diffusing lamp’s light output |
| acrylic
refractor |
optical
system made from acrylic plastic, similar to reflector, but designed to redirect small
portion of lamp’s light output upwards and around the fixture, to create some level
of indirect lighting or brighter perception of illuminated area |
| ambient
lighting |
lighting
throughout an area which produces general illumination |
| aperture |
opening
on the fixture that light is radiated through towards the work plane |
| baffle |
a
matte black or white element to shield light source from direct view of an observer at
certain angles |
| ballast
|
an
electric or electronic device wired between power supply line and electric-discharge lamp.
Ballast converts regular power to specific electrical conditions required for starting and
operating discharge lamp. More… |
| ballast
core & coil |
magnetic
ballast system consisting of several individual parts, i.e. coil and capacitor; that must
be installed in a separate, approved enclosure. Typically used with metal
halide or high pressure sodium lamps |
| ballast
cover |
removable
part of light fixture designed to provide easy access to ballast, i.e. for servicing |
| ballast
dimming |
specially
designed ballast capable of dimming discharge lamps, usually fluorescent or very lately
metal halide. More… |
| ballast
electronic |
high
efficiency ballast that uses electronic circuitry to provide proper starting and operating
electrical conditions for discharge lamp, or multiple lamps.
More... |
| ballast
factor |
the
applicable output of lamp(s) operated on a ballast as compared to the output of lamp(s)
when operated on the reference ballast used when the initial lamp lumen were determined by
the lamp manufacturer. Typical high ballast factor ballast will increase the lamp’s
lumens by 25%, i.e. 3650 vs. 2950 lumens from std. 4’ T8 lamp. Extremely feasible
feature in high performance, indirect lighting luminaries.
More… |
| ballast
f-can |
fully
encapsulated ballast ready to be installed in the building without any additional
enclosure |
| ballast
loss |
amount
of energy lost within the ballast, converted to internal heat. In older
systems ballast loss can amount to 20% of lamp’s energy, i.e. 40W F40 lamp that uses
48W with ballast connected |
| ballast
magnetic |
older
ballast design uses coils, magnetic transformer and capacitors to create proper starting
and operating conditions for discharge lamp. Hot operating and unreliable |
| ballast
remote |
a
ballast that is installed remotely from the fixture. Typical for architectural pendant
luminaries where ballast is hidden in the ceiling system. Maximum allowed distance between
ballast and luminaire is usually 12 feet. More… |
| ballast
temperature |
operating
ballast temperature is very critical to ballasts life expectancy. Older magnetic ballast
run hotter and expect to last 5 – 10 years. Electronic ballasts run cooler due to
much lowe ballast loses, and are expected to last 10 – 25
years. More… |
| ballast
warranty |
provided
by the ballast manufacturer, it can range from one year to five years. Some manufacturers
offer on-site warranty service or nominal labor allowance for failed ballasts covered by
warranty. More… |
| barn
doors |
mechanical
/ optical accessory to track lighting fixture designed to provide “studio” look
and/or functioning as mechanical shutter to partially reduce the size and intensity of
lamp’s beam |
| Biax
lamp |
same
as PLL lamp, 12 – 21 inch long, high-lumen (4,800 lm. max), single-ended T5 compact
fluorescent lamp. Biax is a GE Lighting brand |
| black
light |
typically
fluorescent or metal halide lamp with special coating designed to absorb all visible light
but transmit ultra-violet light at full. Used for special effects in bars, theaters, in
combination with specially formulated glowing paints or plastic articles, etc. |
| bollard |
column-shaped
cylindrical exterior light fixture with some sort of optical system, i.e. lens or radial
louver, mounted on the top. Typically used for path lighting of sidewalks and
driveways |
| brightness |
the
subjective attribute of any light sensation giving rise to the perception of light
intensity |
| brightness
- ceiling |
ceiling
brightness is sometimes confused with glare. If ceiling is bright from direct, poorly
designed luminaries, it is glaring bright. When ceiling is bright from softly diffused
indirect lighting, it creates a perception of bright, comfortably illuminated space with
zero glare. More… |
| brightness
- floor |
bright
flooring material acts as a reflective material and can contribute to providing higher
light levels with less luminaries |
| brightness-
perception of |
subjective
perception of light intensity as received by human eye. It is affected by overall balance
of different elements: brightness of walls, floors and ceiling, light levels throughout
the space, and relative brightness of surrounding environments.
More… |
| C.U. coefficient of utilization |
Percentage
of lamp's total light output, processed and distributed by a luminaire, received on the
work-plane |
| candela |
the
International System (SI) unit of luminous intensity. One candela is one lumen per
steradian |
| candelabra
base |
miniature
incandescent screw-in lamp base used in decorative luminaries. Base code: E-14
Mini-Candelabra base code: E-11 |
| canopy |
approx.
4 inches round or square plastic or metal junction box cover with strain relieve
connector, that is used to hang and to power pendant luminaries |
| capsylite |
Sylvania
brand of halogen PAR20, PAR30 and PAR38 lamps |
| ceiling
- cathedral |
sloped
drywall or open ceiling. Requires special sloped-ceiling rated recessed downlights and
track lighting mounting hardware or fixture adapters |
| ceiling
- drywall |
permanently
enclosed, solid plaster ceiling. Plenum is accessible only through fixture opening(s) or
specially installed access doors or panels |
| ceiling
- open concept |
ceiling-less
interior design. Roof rafters or support structure above and all wiring,
piping, ducts and other infrastructure are exposed. Usually much more expensive than
enclosed ceiling systems with all infrastructure hidden in the plenum |
| ceiling
- t-bar |
enclosed
ceiling system consisting of permanently installed “inverted T” frame with
openings filled with light weight acoustical ceiling panels. Most commonly used in
commercial projects, T-bar ceiling provides the easiest access for installation or
servicing of light fixtures. More… |
| ceiling
brightness |
ceiling
brightness is sometimes confused with glare. If ceiling is bright from direct, poorly
designed luminaries, it is glaring bright. When ceiling is bright from softly diffused
indirect lighting, it creates a perception of bright, comfortably illuminated space with
zero glare. More… |
| ceiling
height |
distance
between floor and ceiling |
| ceiling
tiles |
lightweight
acoustical ceiling panels usually in 2 ft. x 4 ft. nominal size, designed to fit into
T-bar ceiling |
| ceramic
metal halide |
premium
color rendering, newly designed metal halide lamp using one-piece ceramic discharge burner
design. More… |
| circline
lamp |
round-shaped
T9 fluorescent lamp for residential and special application luminaries. Low system
efficacy. Three sizes available: 8”/22W/1100 lm, 12”/32W/1900 lm,
16”/40W/2000 lumens |
| clear
reflector |
most
commonly specified trim / optical system for compact fluorescent and other downlights
where high efficiency lighting is required |
| clips |
plastic
or metal elements to provide additional support to single-ended long compact fluorescent
lamps |
| closed
rated lamp |
H.I.D.
lamp, metal halide or high pressure sodium, designed to be used only in luminaries with
protective lens, that protects people and surrounding areas from flying pieces of hot
glass in case of destructive breakdown of the lamp |
| closed
rated luminaire |
commercial
light fixture that can be operated only with protective lens in place, to protect people
and surrounding areas from flying pieces of hot glass in case of destructive breakdown of
the lamp |
| coefficient of utilization
(CU) |
percentage
of lamp's total light output, distributed by a luminaire, received on the work-plane |
| color
filters |
made
from colored glass, color filters are accessory to track lighting or downlights used when
special (theatrical) color effects are required |
| color
gels |
made
from thin, color plastic sheets; gels can be formed into sleeves and used with common
fluorescent lamps to achieve special effects, i.e. colored
uplighting. More… |
| color
rendering index |
(CRI)
is a relative measure of the shift in surface color presentation of an object when lit by
a particular lamp, compared with how the object would appear under a reference light
source of similar color temperature. The higher the CRI of the light source, the
"truer" it renders color |
| color
temperature |
how
cool or warm the light source appears: “Warm White” = 3000 Kelvin;
“Neutral White” = 3500 Kelvin; “Cool White” = 4100 Kelvin
and “Daylight White” = 5000 or more Kelvin |
| compact
fluorescent |
single-ended
fluorescent lamp miniaturized via one or multiple bends, that provides high lumen package
in compact size. Mostly used in
downlights. More... |
| comparison
– T.C.O. |
total
Cost of Ownership comparison report produced to evaluate the economical feasibility of two
or more alternative lighting systems |
| connector
- feed |
end-piece
track lighting part designed to connect track lighting system to external power |
| connector
- L |
track
connector designed to connect electrically and mechanically two pieces of track installed
under 90 degree angle |
| connector
- mini joiner |
shortest
available, miniature plastic connector designed to connect together mechanically and
electrically two pieces of track |
| connector
- straight |
track
connector designed to connect mechanically and electrically two pieces of track. This
connector is also suitable to be used as a 2-circuit feed point |
| connector
– T |
track
connector designed to connect electrically and mechanically three pieces of track
installed under 90 degree angle |
| connector
– X |
track
connector designed to connect electrically and mechanically four pieces of track installed
under 90 degree angle |
| contactor |
electro-mechanical
device designed to control multiple lighting circuits with one conveniently located main
switch. More… |
| contractor |
a
company or individual with a formal contract to do a specific job, supplying labor and
materials and providing and overseeing staff if needed |
| core-and-coil
ballast |
magnetic
ballast system consisting of several separate parts, i.e. coil and capacitor, that must be
installed in separate, approved enclosure. Used with metal halide or high pressure
sodium lamps |
| cove
lighting |
lighting
system comprising lamps or other light sources shielded by a ledge or horizontal recess.
daylighting Daylighting optimizes natural sunlight entry into a building
to minimize the need for artificial lighting. A method of filling a room with
well-diffused natural sunlight. |
| DC lighting |
recently
introduced commercial lighting system designed to significantly extend the useful life of
halogen MR16 and PAR lamps by powering them with regulated direct-current (DC) power, with
no voltage spikes, fluctuations or surges.
More... |
| decorative lighting fixture |
accent
lighting luminaire that makes a decorative statement not only when it is turned on but
also when it is turned off |
| diffused
lighting |
lighting
that arrives reflected from, or scattered by diffuser |
| diffuser |
a
surface or translucent material to redirect or scatter reflected or transmitted
light. A white wall is an example of a surface diffuser |
| dimmer |
an
electronic device designed to regulate light output of incandescent and halogen lamps; and
fluorescent lamps in fixtures equipped with special dimming ballasts |
| direct
light |
the
portion of the light from a luminaire which arrives at the work-plane without being
reflected by room surfaces |
| direct-indirect luminaire |
light
fixture specially designed to increase visual comfort by producing a balanced combination
of direct and indirect light |
| discharge
lamp |
a
lamp that uses electric discharge inside of gas chamber, to convert electricity to
lighting. Included are groups of lamps known as fluorescent, metal halide, and
high pressure sodium |
| double-ended
lamp |
typically
metal halide or halogen, linear-shaped lamp with one contact on each end. Base code:
RX7s. Used in flood lights, wall washers and lighting effects |
| double-parabolic
louver |
optical
glare controlling element that uses parabolic reflective surfaces in both directions, or
two separately curved parabolic reflectors in the same direction |
| downlight |
recessed
or surface mounted luminaire with light output directed downwards |
| drywall
ceiling |
permanently
enclosed, solid plaster ceiling. Plenum is accessible only through fixture opening(s) or
specially installed access doors or panels |
| drywall
kit |
special
hardware kit (frame) deigned to allow installation of T-bar designed fluorescent fixtures,
in the drywall ceilings |
| Duro-Trans |
large
size slide / transparency with graphic / visual expression, installed on a back-lit
surface for attention-grabbing effect. Best results are achieved when transparencies are
illuminated with “daylight” lamps with color temperature of 5000 Kelvin or more |
| efficacy |
the
ratio of lumens produced by a lamp to the watts consumed, expressed as lumens per watt
(LPW). The higher the lumens per watt, the more efficient the lamp |
| efficiency |
the
ratio of total light output measured in lumens emitted by a luminaire to that emitted by
the lamp or all lamps used therein |
| efficient
lighting |
energy
efficient lighting is the use of artificial light to provide the optimal level of light
for the lowest energy investment. However, energy efficient lighting is not simply finding
the most light for the least wattage or the longest lasting light bulb. Proper sizing of
the light to the needs of the location and the tasks that will be performed, called task
lighting, is also very important part of energy efficient lighting |
| egg-crate
louver |
an
inexpensive white plastic or metalized plastic panel with square cell openings, frequently
used to reduce glare of recessed troffer fluorescent fixtures |
| electronic
ballast |
high
efficiency ballast that uses electronic circuitry to provide proper starting and operating
electrical conditions for discharge lamp, or multiple lamps |
| emergency
lighting |
lighting
system designed to provide minimum illumination required for safety, during power
failures. Draws energy from batteries or generator, or combination of both |
| energy
audit |
detailed
analysis and report outlining lighting system’s energy consumption and operating
costs |
| energy
consumption |
value
registered and metered by the utility company, to charge customers for energy
usage. Electrical energy consumption is in kilowatt-hours |
| energy
efficient |
energy
efficient lighting is the use of artificial light to provide the optimal level of light
for the lowest energy investment. However, energy efficient lighting is
not simply finding the most light for the least wattage or the longest lasting light
bulb. Proper sizing of the light to the needs of the location and the tasks
that will be performed, called task lighting, is also very important part of energy
efficient lighting |
| extension
wand |
track
lighting accessory consisting of thin hollow pipe and track adapters on each end, wired
together. Installed between track and track fixtures, extension wands
are used to suspend track fixtures to lover position |
| F-can ballast |
fully
encapsulated ballast ready to be installed in the building without a need of any
additional enclosure |
| feed
connector |
end-piece
track lighting part designed to connect external power to track lighting system |
| fiber
optic lighting |
lighting
system consisting of one or multiple, remotely installed light source(s); and light
distribution “pipes” or fibber optic cables that carry light to locations of
it’s final use. Fiber optic cables can be side glowing for linear special effects or
end-glowing for task lighting or spotlighting effects.
More... |
| filament |
a
piece of wolfram wire inside of incandescent or halogen lamp. When heated by electricity,
filament glows white and produces light |
| filters |
made
from colored or UV-blocking glass, filters are accessory to track lighting or downlights
used when special (theatrical) color effects or complete elimination of UV radiation are
required |
| fixture
spacing |
distance
between luminaries, or area covered by each luminaire, needed to achieve desired light
levels |
| flexible
gooseneck |
specialty
light fixture designed to be easily field-adjustable, allowing full flexibility of
aiming. Flexible gooseneck is typically 24 – 36 inch long and for weight
reasons, fixture is usually miniature head with MR16 or MR11 halogen lamp |
| flood
light |
lighting
fixture or lamp with wide beam distribution, typ. 38 - 45 degrees |
| fluorescent
lamp |
a
low-pressure electric-discharge lamp in which a fluorescent coating transforms some of the
ultraviolet energy generated by electric discharge, into
light. More… |
| fluorescent
phosphors |
the
color of fluorescent lamps is created by mineral phosphors in powder form which coat the
inside of the lamp tube. The chemical make-up of these phosphors determines the lamps CRI,
its Color Temperature, and how much light the lamp produces |
| foot-candle |
it
is the illuminance on one square foot area on which there is a uniformly distributed flux
of one lumen |
| gimbal ring |
track
fixture or downlight designed to hold halogen PAR or MR16 lamp in round open ring,
adjustable both vertically and horizontally |
| glare |
glare
is the action of light exiting the lamp (light bulb) and directly entering the observer's
eye. Glare can be useful or a hindrance |
| glare
control |
optical
fixture elements designed to reduce or eliminate glare. Included are baffles
on downlights and louvers on fluorescent fixtures |
| glass
lens |
protective
glass piece installed in the fixture’s aperture, to protect people and surroundings
from flying pieces of hot glass in case of destructive breakdown of the lamp.
Commonly used with “enclosed fixture” rated metal halide and halogen lamps |
| glass
refractor |
bell-shaped
optical system made from glass, similar to reflector, but designed to redirect small
portion of lamp’s light output upwards and around the fixture, to create some level
of indirect lighting or brighter perception of illuminated area |
| gooseneck
fixture |
specialty
light fixture designed to be easily field-adjustable, allowing full flexibility of
aiming. Flexible or rigid gooseneck is typically 24 – 36 inch long
and for weight reasons, fixture is usually miniature head with MR16 or MR11 halogen lamp |
| group
relamping |
replacement
of all lamps at about 60 – 80% of expected lamp life. All fixtures are
cleaned at the same time. Most cost effective maintenance method.
Opposite to spot relamping, replacement of one lamp at the time as the old lamps burn
out. More… |
| H.I.D.
lamp |
"High
Intensity Discharge" -- a lamp that uses electric discharge inside of pressurized gas
chamber, to convert electricity to lighting. Included are groups of lamps known as
mercury, metal halide, and high pressure sodium |
| H.Q.I.
lamp |
special
metal halide lamp available in 70 Watts and 150 Watts, single-ended or double-ended,
mostly used in European-originated commercial luminaries |
| high
bay fixture |
reflector-shaped
industrial luminaire, typically with metal halide lamp, designed to illuminate from
installation heights of 12 feet and up |
| high performance lighting |
a
lighting system or luminaire that uses high efficacy (80 or better), high color rendering
(80 or better) light sources in combination with efficient optical systems (i.e.
reflectors) that provide high (75 or more) Coefficient of Utilization (CU) |
| housing |
frame
and in-ceiling electrical part of recessed fixture |
| housing
insulated |
frame
and in-ceiling electrical part of recessed fixture, used in insulation-covered ceiling
systems |
| housing
new construction |
frame
and in-ceiling electrical part of recessed fixture, designed to be installed before final
ceiling panels are installed |
| housing
remodel |
frame
and in-ceiling electrical part of recessed fixture, designed to be installed after ceiling
panels are installed, i.e. in existing ceilings |
| indirect light |
the
portion of the luminary’s light output arriving at the work-plane after being
reflected by room surfaces, or specially designed luminaire surfaces (white reflectors or
diffusers) |
| instant
start |
fluorescent
lamp / ballasts system where no lamp preheat circuits are required. Lamp is started by
application of high voltage pulse. Only two wires are used to connect lamp to ballast |
| K12
lens |
most
commonly used flat plastic panel with specific standardized “K12” pattern,
installed in the fixture to visually cover the lamps, and to lower glare by redirecting or
diffusing lamp’s light output |
| kilowatt |
one
thousand watts. Watt: the international unit of power equal to the power
produced by a current of one ampere acting across a potential difference of one volt |
| kilowatt-hour |
the
amount of electric energy consumed by power load of one kilowatt, in one hour |
| L.L.F. |
"Light
Loss Factor" -- a factor used in calculating light levels maintained after a given
period of time and under specified conditions. It takes into account the dirt accumulation
on luminaries and room surfaces, lamp depreciation, maintenance procedures and atmospheric
conditions |
| lamp |
a
man-made device that changes electricity to light, also called a “bulb” for
incandescent lamps or “tube” for fluorescent lamps |
| lamp
- extended life |
technologically
improved fluorescent, halogen or incandescent lamp specially designed to deliver highest
possible lamp life to reduce maintenance costs and annoyance associated with hard-to-reach
areas. Available with up to 30,000 hours (6 years) lamp life expectancy |
| lamp
A19 |
the
shape and size of common household incandescent light bulb available in 40 Watts, 60 Watts
and 100 Watts. Clear or frosted white |
| lamp
beam –wide flood |
creates
42 - 50 degree wide beam area with lowest target light levels. Typically used in MR16
showcase display lighting and other applications where lamp must illuminate wide area,
from very short distance. More… |
| lamp
beam –flood |
creates
32 – 36 degree wide beam area with low target light levels. Typically used in
downlights for low level (residential) ambient lighting.
More… |
| lamp
beam - narrow flood |
creates
22 – 26 degree wide coverage area with medium target light levels. Most commonly
specified MR16 lamp in track lighting fixtures, will provide good accent light effect in
galleries and retail displays, with track installed 9 – 10 ft above the floor, 30
– 36” from the wall. More... |
| lamp
beam – spot |
creates
12 – 14 degree narrow beam with high target light levels. Typically used for accent
lighting in track lighting fixtures. More… |
| lamp
beam - narrow spot |
creates
9 – 11 degree, very narrow beam with higher target light levels. Typically used for
accent lighting from larger distances. More… |
| lamp beam - very narrow spot |
creates
5.5 – 7 degree, sharply narrow beam with highest target light levels. Available in
low voltage PAR36 lamps only. Excellent for sharp accent lighting from larger distances or
special effects. More… |
| lamp
Biax |
same
as PLL lamp by Phillips or Dulux-L by Osram. 12 – 21 inch long, high-lumen T5
single-ended compact fluorescent lamp. Premium lumen package up to 4800 lm / 55W
lamp. Biax is GE Lighting brand.
More… |
| lamp
bi-pin |
sub-miniature
low voltage halogen lamp typically 12V / 5 – 10 – 20 Watts used in miniature
“puck” lights, showcase lighting and some decorative pendant fixtures |
| lamp
Capsylite |
Sylvania’s
brand of halogen PAR16, PAR20, PAR30 and PAR38 lamps |
| lamp
compact fluorescent |
single-ended
fluorescent lamp miniaturized via one or multiple bends, that provides high lumen package
in a compact size. Mostly used in downlights |
| lamp
discharge |
a
lamp that uses electric discharge inside of gas chamber, to convert electricity to
lighting. Included are groups of lamps known as mercury, metal halide, and
high pressure sodium |
| lamp
double-ended |
typically
metal halide or halogen, linear-shaped lamp with one contact on each end. Base code:
RX7s. Used in floodlights, wall washers and lighting effects |
| lamp
fluorescent |
a
low-pressure electric-discharge linear lamp, a coated tube in which a fluorescent coating
transforms some of the ultraviolet energy generated by electric discharge, into
light. More… |
| lamp
halogen |
a
gas filled tungsten incandescent lamp containing proportion halogens in an insert gas
whose pressure exceeds three atmospheres |
| lamp high pressure sodium |
high
intensity discharge (HID) lamp in which light is produced by radiation from sodium vapor
operating at a partial pressure of about 1.33 x 104 Pa (100 torr). Includes clear and
diffuse coating |
| lamp
HQI |
special
metal halide lamp available in 70 Watts and 150 Watts, single-ended or double-ended,
mostly used in European-originated commercial luminaries |
| lamp
incandescent |
a
lamp in which light is produced by a filament (wolfram wire) heated to incandescence by an
electric current |
| lamp
life |
is
value estimated, but not guaranteed, by lamp manufacturer, in hours. It is
defined as a period of time, in which 50% of a given sample batch of lamps will be burned
out, and 50% will be still surviving. Lamp life is affected by many different
conditions, but mainly by power quality of supply line. More…
|
| lamp
line voltage |
lamps
that operate on direct connection to line power supply voltage 120 Volts |
| lamp
low voltage |
lamps
that operate at 12 Volts or 24 Volts. These lamps require a transformer, magnetic
(cheaper but heavier) or electronic (smaller), to reduce the line voltage to lamp’s
voltage |
| lamp
Mastercolor |
ceramic
metal halide lamp brand made by Philips Lighting. Premium color rendering and color
consistency. Available in PAR30, PAR38, single-ended and double-ended
enclosures. More… |
| lamp
metal halide |
a
high intensity discharge (HID) lamp in which the major portion of the light is produced by
radiation of metal halides and their products of dissociation. Includes clear and phosphor
coated lamps. More… |
| lamp
MR11 |
35
mm diameter, smallest available reflector halogen lamp, low voltage 12 Volt or 24 Volt,
with bi-pin base code GX 5.3. 20 – 35W max. Mainly used in specialized task lighting.
i.e. showcases and retail displays. More... |
| lamp
MR16 |
51
mm diameter, miniature reflector halogen lamp, low voltage 12 Volt or 24 Volt, 20 –
75W max. with bi-pin base code GX 5.3. More… |
| lamp
MR16 - Constant Color |
General
Electric special design and brand of MR16 lamp that is known to have longest lasting
service (lamp life) and good maintenance of bright white light output. Light
output from some other MR16 lamps might turn yellowish or greenish after few weeks or few
months of operation |
| lamp
MR16 - enclosed |
MR16
lamp that has a permanently attached protective glass lens. Most common MR16 lamp
specified in commercial lighting projects |
| lamp
MR16 - open |
open
design MR16 lamp that requires an additional glass lens to be inserted into the fixture
when lamp is being installed. Open MR16 lamps are not allowed to operate
without proper glass shield due to fire hazard and/or health hazard caused by flying hot
pieces of glass in case of destructive breakdown of the lamp |
| lamp
PAR |
"Parabolic
Aluminized Reflector" lamp that has internal reflective coatings which, in
combination with various filament locations and lenticular patterns on the bulb face,
achieve a variety of light distribution patterns. Commonly specified sizes are PAR16,
PAR20, PAR30, PAR38, PAR36, PAR56 and PAR64. Average rated life is 2,000 hours. Get the
diameter (in inches) of any PAR lamp by simply dividing the PAR number by 8. More… |
| lamp
PAR16 |
2”
diameter, screw-in, medium base line voltage PAR lamp, 20 – 50 Watts max. Used in
special task lighting applications. More… |
| lamp
P AR20 |
2-1/2”
diameter, screw-in, medium base line voltage PAR lamp, 20 – 50 Watts max. Used mainly
in low budget residential installations. Note: 50 Watt PAR20 lamp has only about half
light output of 50 Watt MR16 lamp and more yellow color. More… |
| lamp
PAR30 |
3-3/4”
diameter, screw-in, medium base line voltage PAR lamp, 50 – 75 Watts max. Used mainly
in retail store and showroom track lighting systems. Note: 75 Watt PAR30 lamp has about
the same light output as 50 Watt MR16 lamp. More… |
| lamp
PAR36 |
4-1/2”,
low voltage PAR lamp 6 Watts – 100 Watts max. Screw terminal base G5.3. Used mainly
in accent display lighting when very narrow spot, high intensity beam is
required. More... |
| lamp
PAR38 |
4-7/8”
diameter, screw-in, medium base line voltage PAR lamp, 45 – 120 Watts, used mainly
for general lighting in downlights, and in track lighting in retail stores, showrooms and
galleries. More… |
| lamp
PAR56 |
7”
line voltage PAR lamp up to 500 Watts max, used mainly in entertainment lighting,
underwater pool lighting or special effect lighting |
| lamp
PAR64 |
8”
line voltage PAR lamp up to 1000 Watts max, used mainly in entertainment stage productions |
| lamp
PL |
low
wattage, 5-7-9-13 Watts, short compact T4 fluorescent lamp. The least expensive, very
common lamp. 800 lm max / 6.2” overall length. More… |
| lamp
PLC |
double-legged,
high lumen T4 compact fluorescent lamp, typically 13, 18 or 26 Watts. Provides good lumen
package (1,800 lm max.) in compact (6.5”) overall lamp dimension. Typically used in
recessed downlights. More… |
| lamp
PLL |
same
as Biax lamp, 12 – 21 inch long, high-lumen T5 single-ended compact fluorescent
lamp. Premium lumen package up to 4800 lm / 55 Watts lamp. Biax is brand of GE
Lighting. More… |
| lamp
PLQ |
triple-legged,
high lumen compact T4 fluorescent lamp, typically 18, 26, 32 or 42 Watts. Provides premium
lumen package (3200 lm max.) in compact overall lamp (6.3”) dimension. Typically used
in recessed downlights and track lighting wall washers. More… |
| lamp
R30, R40 |
obsolete
technology, inefficient incandescent light bulb with outer envelope shaped in the form of
metalized reflector. Outlawed for commercial use in USA and Canada due
to poor efficiency. Replaced by PAR30 and PAR38 halogen lamps |
| lamp
replacement |
removal
of burned out lamp and reinstallation of new lamp. Using replacement lamp with exactly
same parameters / cat. number as original lamp is highly recommended. Especially with
fluorescent and H.I.D lamps where correct, accurate match between the ballast and the lamp
is very important |
| lamp
T2 |
7
mm diameter. Pencil-thin fluorescent lamp, available in wattages and
lengths 6W / 8.6” to 13W / 20.6”. Used in specialized task lighting and accent
lighting applications, i.e. retail displays, showcases, step lights and emergency lighting
systems. Good efficacy and CRI around 80 |
| lamp
T5 |
16
mm diameter. Latest introduction to high performance fluorescent lighting
systems. Excellent efficacy of 100+ lumens / Watt. Available in sizes up to 5 ft, 80 Watts
/ 7000 lumens per lamp |
| lamp
T8 |
26
mm diameter. Most commonly specified fluorescent lamp. Good system efficacy
and CRI of 75 (700 series), 85 (800 series) or 95 (900 series). Common 48” T8 lamps
are inexpensive and readily available |
| lamp
T10 |
32
mm diameter. High performance fluorescent lamp designed to work with older
magnetic ballasts, specially in retrofit projects where higher light levels or reduced
lighting loads (delamping from 4 lamps to two lamps with reflector) are required. Only
available in 48” lengths, 40 Watt design that produces 3,650 initial lumens and a
very good CRI of 85. Available from Philips Lighting and Panasonic Lighting |
| lamp
T12 |
38
mm diameter. Older technology fluorescent lamps. Today almost obsolete
and used for replacement in existing older fixtures only. Low efficacy and poor Color
Rendering Index (CRI) of only about 65 |
| layered
lighting |
a
lighting system that simultaneously uses multiple different lighting techniques to achieve
desired results. A good example is well-designed auditorium lighting
where direct PAR38 downlights provide proper light levels for writing and reading tasks,
indirect ceiling luminaries eliminate shadows, and perimeter indirect lighting wall sconces
improve overall perception of room’s brightness and visual comfort probability (VCP) |
| lay-in
fixture |
luminaire
designed for installation in T-bar ceilings |
| lead
time |
time
required by lighting manufacturer to deliver the order, from the date of receiving the
purchase order |
| lens |
flat
plastic panel installed in the fixture to visually cover the lamps, and to lower glare by
redirecting or diffusing lamp’s light output |
| lens
K12 |
most
commonly used flat plastic panel with specific standardized “K12” pattern,
installed in the fixture to visually cover the lamps, and to lower glare by redirecting or
diffusing lamp’s light output |
| light
level calculations |
a
mathematical method to determine maintained light levels, based on parameters of space and
luminaire characteristics. More… |
| light
levels |
|
| light
loss factor (L.L.F.) |
a
factor used in calculating maintaining light levels after a given period of time and under
specified conditions. It takes into account the dirt accumulation on luminaries and room
surfaces, lamp depreciation, maintenance procedures and atmospheric conditions |
| light
pipe |
recently
developed technology consisting of single powerful light source typically 1,000 Watts or
more, and special light distribution “pipe” developed by 3M that illuminates
surrounding areas by brightly glowing along it’s entire
length. More…
http://www.thelightingcenter.com/3m/3mlightpipe.asp |
| lighting - high performance |
a
lighting system or luminaire that uses high efficacy (80 or better), high color rendering
(80 or better) light sources in combination with efficient optical systems (i.e.
reflectors) that provide high (75 or more) Coefficient of Utilization
(CU). More… |
| lighting
circuits |
electrical
distribution circuits dedicated to powering light fixtures |
| lighting
load |
power
used by all luminaries in given area, usually expressed in watts per square foot |
| lighting
maintenance |
regular
or irregular replacement of burned out lamps, defective ballasts etc. Included should be
fixture cleaning in regular intervals (every 2 – 4 years), to eliminate lumen
depreciation due to dirt accumulation |
| lighting
software |
computer
program that will calculate light levels and/or provide full point-by-point light level
report |
| line
voltage lighting |
lighting
system that uses line voltage lamps 120 Volts connected directly to power supply line |
| linear
lighting |
lighting
system that contains a number of in-row configured luminaries or light sources, i.e. rope
lighting, Brite- strip or side glowing fiber optic lighting |
| louver |
plastic
or metallic optical cell system, designed to improve glare control, performance,
efficiency or architectural appearance. Frequently combined with
reflectors in well-designed, high performance commercial fluorescent luminaries |
| low
bay fixture |
reflector-shaped
industrial luminaire with bottom diffuser, designed to illuminate from low ceilings 8 to
12 feet high |
| low
voltage lighting |
lighting
systems that uses safe 12 Volt or 24 Volt lamps. Needs lighting transformer to convert
power supply line voltage to low voltage. More… |
| lumen |
International
System unit that determines light output emitted within a unit of solid angle (one
steradian) by a point source having a uniform luminous intensity of one candela |
| lumen
depreciation |
loss
of lamp’s initial light output due to aging |
| master & slave |
cost-saving
configuration of row-installed fluorescent fixtures with single ballast in every second
(master) fixture powering thelamps in both master fixture and slave fixture |
| Mastercolor |
Philips
Lighting brand of ceramic metal halide lamp. Premium color rendering
and color consistency |
| medium
base |
standard
lamp base on all common light bulbs. Base code: E26 or E27 |
| metal
halide lamp |
a
high intensity discharge (HID) lamp in which the major portion of the light is produced by
radiation of metal halides and their products of dissociation. Includes clear and coated
lamps |
| mini
joiner |
shortest
available, miniature connector joining together two pieces of track |
| minigimbal |
mompact
size track lighting fixture; or downlight gimbal ring fixture used with MR16 or MR11 lamps |
| mogul
base |
large
size lamp base used in industrial luminaries, mostly with high intensity discharge
(H.I.D.) lamps. Base code: E39 or E40 |
| moisture
proof |
fluorescent
fixture with special gasketed enclosure approved to be used in wet areas, i.e. cooking
area or car wash |
| monopoint |
simple
plastic, round- or square-shaped junction box cover designed to provide mechanical
mounting and electrical connections for one track lighting fixture |
| narrow spot |
provides
typically 9 – 11 degrees, very narrow beam with higher target light levels. Typically
used for accent lighting from larger distances. More… |
| open concept ceiling |
ceiling-less
interior design. Roof rafters or support structure above and all wiring,
piping, ducts and other infrastructure are exposed. Usually much more expensive than
enclosed ceiling systems with all infrastructure hidden in the plenum |
| open
rated lamp |
metal
halide lamp that has a special protective shield built right inside of outer enclosure, to
protect people and surrounding areas from flying pieces of hot glass in case of
destructive breakdown of the lamp. Open rated lamp will fit in both “open
rated” and “closed rated” luminaries. |
| open
rated luminaire |
commercial
fixture that uses H.I.D. lamps (metal halide or high pressure sodium) that is designed to
accept “open rated lamps” only, by special feature of the lamp’s
socket |
| optical
system |
mechanical
elements of luminaire designed to focus, direct, redirect, diffuse or scatter lamp’s
light output, in order to achieve required performance and characteristics |
| PAR
lamp |
"Parabolic
Aluminized Reflector" -- lamp that has internal reflective coatings which, in
combination with various filament locations and lenticular patterns on the bulb face,
achieve a variety of light distribution patterns. Commonly specified sizes are
PAR16, PAR20, PAR30, PAR38, PAR36, PAR56 and PAR64. Average rated life is 2,000 hours. Get
the diameter (in inches) of any PAR lamp by simply dividing the PAR number by 8.
More… |
| path
lighting |
lighting
system designed to illuminate or visually identify walking path or sidewalk |
| pendant
fixture |
cable-suspended
luminaire |
| perception
of brightness |
subjective
perception of light intensity as received by human eye. It is affected by
overall balance of different elements: brightness of walls, floors and ceiling, light
levels throughout the space, and relative brightness of surrounding
environments. More… |
| perimeter
lighting |
lighting
system designed to illuminate perimeter walls or areas |
| photometric
report |
luminaire
performance and characteristics report and electronic file, created upon completion of
physical testing of luminaire on special laboratory equipment |
| pipe
lighting |
recently
developed technology consisting of single powerful light source typically 1,000 Watts or
more, and special light distribution “pipe” developed by 3M that illuminates
surrounding areas by brightly glowing along it’s entire length.
More… http://www.thelightingcenter.com/3m/3mlightpipe.asp |
| PL
lamp |
low
wattage, 5-7-9-13 Watts, short compact T4 fluorescent lamp. The least expensive, very
common lamp. 800 lm max / 6.2” overall length. More… |
| PLC
lamp |
double-legged,
high lumen T4 compact fluorescent lamp, typically 13, 18 or 26 Watts. Provides good lumen
package (1,800 lm max.) in compact (6.5”) overall lamp dimension. Typically used in
recessed downlights. More… |
| PLL
lamp |
same
as Biax lamp, 12 – 24 inch long, high-lumen compact fluorescent lamp. Biax is GE
Lighting brand |
| PLQ
lamp |
triple-legged,
high lumen compact T4 fluorescent lamp, typically 18, 26, 32 or 42 Watts. Provides premium
lumen package (3200 lm max.) in compact overall lamp (6.3”) dimension. Typically used
in recessed downlights and track lighting wall washers. More… |
| plenum |
hollow
space between ceiling panel (drywall, T-bar tile or metal / wood panel) and roofing
panels, or other hollow space meant to accommodate light fixtures and wiring |
| pole
lighting |
exterior
lighting fixtures installed on concrete, steel, aluminum or lately, fiberglass poles.
Typical for street lighting and for parking lot, sidewalk and park pathway lighting |
| polycarbonate |
durable,
virtually unbreakable plastic material, transparent clear, translucent or opal white, used
to manufacture unbreakable, i.e. vandal-resistant luminaries |
| pot
light |
common
word for recessed downlight. |
| protective
lens |
plastic
or glass panel installed in the fixture’s aperture, to protect people and
surroundings from flying pieces of hot glass in case of destructive breakdown of the lamp.
Commonly used with “enclosed fixture” rated metal halide and halogen lamps |
| pulse
start system |
recently
introduced high efficacy (100 lumens / Watt) metal halide lamp + ballast system. Lamp is
started by high voltage pulse. Lamp socket must be “pulse rated” with minimum
pulse rating of 4000 Volts. More… |
| quartz lamp |
common
name for tungsten halogen lamp |
| R.
C. R. |
"Room
Cavity Ratio" -- A number indicating cavity proportions from length, width, and
height. This value used in the coefficient of utilization calculation for a given
luminaire in a space with specified room reflectance and dimensions |
| rapid
start |
a
fluorescent lamp designed for operation with a ballast that provides a low-voltage winding
for preheating the electrodes and initiating the arc without a starting switch or the
application of high voltage. Four wires are required to connect lamp with the ballast |
| recessed
fixture |
entire
fixture is fully concealed within the ceiling, with opening (aperture) flush mounted with
the ceiling |
| reflectance
- ceiling |
fractional
number describing amount of light reflected by ceiling’s surface. White ceiling has
reflectance of 1, matte black ceiling close to zero |
| reflectance
- floor |
fractional
number describing amount of light reflected by floor’s surface. Light colored floor
has reflectance close to 1, dark matte floor close to zero |
| reflectance
- walls |
fractional
number describing amount of light reflected by wall’s surface. White wall has
reflectance of 1, mat black wall close to zero |
| reflector |
optical
system typically made of aluminum, designed to direct and/or focus lamp’s light
output in one specific direction |
| refractor |
reflector-shaped
optical system made from acrylic or polycarbonate plastic, or glass; designed to redirect
small portion of lamp’s light output upwards and around the fixture, to create some
level of indirect lighting and brighter perception of illuminated area |
| relamping |
"Group
Relamping" -– replacement of all lamps at about 60 – 80% of expected life
span. All fixtures are cleaned at the same time. Most cost effective maintenance method.
Opposite is spot relamping, replacement of one lamp at the time, as old lamps burn
out. More… |
| remote
ballast |
ballast
that is installed remotely from the fixture. Typical for architectural pendant luminaries
where ballast is hidden in the ceiling system. Maximum allowed distance between ballast
and luminaire is usually limited to 12 feet. More… |
| retrofit
kit |
a
combination of new high efficiency lamp, ballast and/or reflector/louver, designed to
improve the efficiency and/or performance and/or aesthetics of existing luminaire, without
the cost of replacing the entire fixture |
| retrofit
lamp |
high
efficiency lamp designed to produce significant energy savings, without compromising light
levels, suitable to operate on fixture’s existing ballast |
| retrofit
louver |
plastic
or metallic panel with optical cells, designed to improve existing fixture’s look,
glare control, performance or efficiency |
| room
cavity ratio |
"Room
Cavity Ratio" A number indicating cavity proportions from length, width, and height.
This value used in the coefficient of utilization calculation for a given luminaire in a
space with specified room reflectance and dimensions |
| rope
lighting |
flexible
linear light fixture in form of long transparent or colored plastic tube filled with
miniature long life incandescent lamps wired together. Used for special effects and
exterior applications, i.e. as outline of buildings |
| safety cable |
a
loop of aircraft cable installed around the fixture’s console and the above track.
Designed to provide additional safety measure to heavy track lighting luminaries, i.e.
metal halide fixtures with magnetic ballast |
| safety
chain |
a
chain attached between recessed luminaire and main building structure, designed to prevent
luminaire from falling in case of ceiling breakdown |
| security
lighting |
low
energy lighting designed to provide minimum visibility required to secure buildings or
objects |
| shatterproof |
fluorescent
or incandescent lamps equipped with transparent silicone coating that will hold all pieces
of glass together in case of lamp breakage. Used in food preparation areas |
| showcase
lighting |
lighting
system designed to illuminate showcase displays. Included are miniature low
voltage track systems and linear low voltage systems i.e. Brite-strip |
| slave
fixture |
empty
fluorescent fixture with no ballast, lamp is powered by remote ballast (due to space
restrictions) or by ballast in nearby master fixture -- see master-slave configuration |
| socket |
lamp
holder, made from porcelain for incandescent and HID lamps or from plastic for fluorescent
lamps. Recent introduction of polycarbonate fluorescent lamp holders eliminated socket
breakdowns and dramatically reduced servicing costs of fluorescent luminaries |
| spacing |
distance
between luminaries, or area covered by each luminaire, needed to achieve desired light
levels |
| spot
light |
narrow
beam, focused light |
| staggered
strip fixture |
a
double-lamp strip fixture for row mounting with overlapping ends. Specially designed
for cove or back lighting applications to eliminate dark spots where fixtures are
connected together |
| strip
fixture |
inexpensive
linear fluorescent fixture consisting of basic fixture body, ballast, lamp holders and
lamp. It has no optical system, lamp’s output is simply radiated into the
surrounding space |
| styrene
lens |
flat
plastic panel made from styrene, installed in the fixture to visually cover the lamps, and
to lower glare by redirecting or diffusing lamp’s light output.
Warning: Styrene material is subject to fast aging and yellowing when used in fluorescent
luminaries |
| surface
fixtures |
luminaire
installed on the ceiling’s level, attached directly to the ceiling. Needs
only pre-wired junction box to be installed |
| surface
mounting trim |
accessory
to fluorescent fixture: A decorative trim that allows lay-in fluorescent fixture (designed
for T-bar ceilings) to be used as a surface mounted, or suspended luminaire |
| suspended
fixtures |
luminaries
installed lower than ceiling level, suspended by chain, pipe conduit, cable, or aircraft
cable |
| suspension - aircraft cable |
fixture
or track lighting suspended on thin steel wire of properly rated strength, barely visible
when installation is completed. More… |
| suspension
kit |
kit
provided by fixture manufacturer, consisting of suspension chain, cable or aircraft cable
and all brackets and hardware necessary to complete the fixture installation |
| system
efficiency |
the
ratio of total light output measured in lumens emitted by a luminaire to that emitted by
the lamp or all lamps used therein |
| task lighting |
task
lighting serves a limited area where a person's work or other activity that needs
illumination, is concentrated |
| T-bar
ceiling |
enclosed
ceiling system consisting of permanently installed “inverted T” frame with
openings filled with light weight acoustical ceiling panels. Most commonly used in
commercial projects, T-bar ceiling provides the easiest access for installation or
servicing of light fixtures. More… |
| time
counter |
a
non-resetable time registering device connected to the control circuit of lighting
contactor, to register total usage hours on the lamps. A very simple, inexpensive device
that helps to determine correct time for cost-effective Group Relamping.
More… |
| total
cost of ownership |
total
amount of money spent by the end user to acquire, install, operate and maintain the
lighting system over a specific period of time, usually five years or ten years |
| track
2-wire system |
track
lighting system that has only two copper wires inside of track’s extrusion to
distribute power to fixtures: Live wire and neutral. Safety grounding is
provided by track extrusion and it’s direct contact with track fixtures and other
electrical elements of the system. Having certain safety limitations, 2-wire systems
are usually used in residential installations |
| track
3-wire system |
track
lighting system that has three heavy duty copper bars inside of track’s extrusion to
distribute power to fixtures: Live wire, neutral and a dedicated ground connection
that is reliably and consistently connected with track fixtures and other electrical
elements of the system |
| track
adapter |
track
lighting component that allows fixture to be installed on the track. Track adapter
must be always compatible with the track |
| track
compatibility |
different
manufacturers offer different track systems that are usually not compatible with each
other. To work on the track, track fixtures must be compatible with
track lighting system |
| track
extension wand |
a
track lighting accessory consisting of thin hollow pipe and track adapters on each end,
wired together. Installed between track and track fixtures, extension wands
are used to suspend track fixtures to lover position |
| track
extrusion |
the
body of lighting track is usually made of aluminum extrusion with special inside grooves
that accommodate power distributing copper bars installed in plastic insulators |
| track
fixtures |
luminaries
designed to be installed on the lighting track |
| track
lighting |
modern
lighting system that provides flexible and movable mechanical and electrical connection of
luminaries anywhere along the pre-installed lighting track |
| track
lighting setback |
the
distance between the track and the wall or front of the display to be illuminated.
In most instances, a setback of 30 – 36 inches will work fine on 8 – 10 ft.
ceiling installations, with little shadows. More... |
| track
suspension kit |
a
kit provided by track manufacturer, consisting of suspension pipes, mounting canopy,
brackets and all other hardware necessary to complete the suspended track installation |
| transformer
- lighting |
an
electric or electronic device converting power supply voltage of 120 Volts to 12 Volt or
24 Volt safe low voltage output, to power low voltage lamps |
| trim |
part
of the downlight luminaire visible from the room, mounted flush with the ceiling. The last
part of the light fixture installed when ceiling is completely finished |
| trim
– adjustable |
trim
that allows adjustment of lamp’s direction by tilting (30 degrees or more) and/or
rotating (355 degrees) of lamp’s holder. Most commonly specified with
MR16 halogen lamps in directional accent/display lighting or task lighting |
| trim
– baffle |
trim
that uses grooved, deep cylindrical insert to shield light source from direct view of an
observer at certain angles. Finished in flat black or flat white |
| trim
- cross blade |
trim
that uses polished aluminum or white louver to reduce or eliminate glare. Usually
specified with compact fluorescent downlights |
| trim
- pin hole |
smallest
aperture trim specified where light fixtures must make minimum necessary visual
statement. Specified with spot or narrow spot MR16 lamps |
| trim
– tilting |
trim
that allows adjustment of lamp’s direction by tilting lamp 30 degrees or more.
Commonly specified with MR16 halogen lamps in directional accent/display lighting or task
lighting |
| troffer |
simple
recessed fluorescent luminaire, a white box with lamps and ballast.
Lamps are normally covered with plastic lens or plastic or metallic louver. |
| UV filter |
accessory
to downlight or track lighting fixture. A lens made from special UV-absorbing
glass. Specified where UV contents of visible artificial light must be
completely eliminated, i.e. art galleries and apparel stores |
| vandal resistant |
unbreakable
luminaire designed for public areas prone to vandalism, i.e. subway |
| very
narrow spot |
special
low voltage halogen lamp (PAR36) that provides sharply focused, very narrow beam 5.5
– 7 degrees wide. Used for pinpoint sharp lighting spots or for accent
lighting from large distances |
| visual comfort probability |
the
rating of a lighting system expressed as a per cent of people who, when viewing from a
specified location and in a specified direction, will be expected to find it acceptable in
terms of discomfort glare |
| wall pack |
security
exterior light fixture designed to provide low energy, all night illumination of building
exterior |
| wall
washer |
asymmetric
luminaire designed to provide wide and even illumination of interior or exterior walls.
Can be recessed, suspended or track-mounted. Typical light source is double-ended halogen
lamp (up to 500 Watts) or metal halide lamp (up to 150 Watts), or long compact fluorescent
lamp (up to 2x80 Watts) |
| wide
flood |
halogen
PAR or MR16 lamp with very wide beam, 42 – 50 degrees. Used in
ambient downlights, showcases (MR16) and other applications where wide area must be
illuminated from a short distance |
| wire
guard |
protective
wire shield formed from heavy-gauge wires; designed to provide mechanical protection for
fluorescent or metal halide luminaries in places where fixtures might be subject to
mechanical damage -- i.e. gyms or warehouses. |
| work
plane |
the
plane / level above the floor, at which work usually is performed, and on which the light
levels are specified and measured. Typically 30” for office spaces and 48” for
showroom or retail environments |
| wrap-around
fixture |
surface
mounted fluorescent fixture with plastic (acrylic or polycarbonate) lens that completely
covers, wraps the entire luminaire end-to-end |