Backlit vs. Edgelit Panels: which is better?

21-05-2021

Unlike poor quality fluorescent battens and tubes, NET LED’s Kingston and Ashley Panels don’t strobe, glare or flicker. Their flexible output provides students and teachers with the correct lighting levels needed in the classroom. This helps improve focus and prevent headaches and tiredness.

Backlit

Backlit Panels like the Ashley Range don’t have a light guide plate, reducing manufacturing costs and preventing discolouration of the diffuser. What’s more, because the LEDs point directly down, it provides more light output and higher lumen per watt ratios than edgelit alternatives. This means you need fewer fittings to light up a room, saving you money and time on installation!

In terms of application, you’ll typically use backlit Panels in offices, corridors, schools and hospitals. However, electricians must take the additional depth of the LED Panel into account when it comes to low ceiling applications, especially if the fitting has an emergency kit installed.

Edgelit

Though the light output is not as strong as backlit alternatives, edgelit Panels provide a smoother luminescence, resulting in more uniform light distribution. This is due to the PMMA light guide present in each edgelit fitting; this material refracts lights from the horizontally mounted LEDs down into the room. The light guide plate must be made of the highest quality materials to prevent yellowing and ensure the continued performance of the fitting.

For applications, edgelit Panels have virtually the same usage as backlit (offices, corridors, schools and hospitals) but with more versatility. Since you don’t need to worry about Panel depth being only 13mm thick, and our Kingston Range have an IP40 rated front face, they can be fitted in areas where low ceilings or dust is present.

Visit www.netled.co.uk now to browse NET LED Lighting’s Panel Ranges. Or, if you have questions or enquiries, call them today on 01223 851505!