Skip Navigation to main content U.S. Department of Energy Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Solid-State Lighting
 
About the ProgramR&D ProjectsMarket-Based ProgramsUsing LEDsInformation ResourcesFinancial OpportunitiesHome
Using Light Emitting Diodes

LED Basics

The light-emitting diode (LED) is a new light source that differs in important ways from existing light sources. This section covers the basics on how LEDs work, some important terms to know, and the common shapes and sizes of LEDs currently on the market. Click on the links below for more information.

This section also explores important technical issues related to LEDs.