I am currently exploring the LED option as well and am interested to hear

replies.

I'm my research thus far, the main draw backs are initial cost and color.

The white lights are a bit blue, but they have ranges that cast a more

"tungsten" glow as well and can be strobed at many different color

combinations.  I'm told they will last up to 11 years if operated

continuously, and longer when used intermittently.  I'm almost as attracted

to the idea of not changing lightbulbs for decades as I am to the idea of

no UV or IR and no heat.  And I understand they are more energy efficient,

since all energy output goes toward light instead of light/heat.  I was

told I could expect to save up to 29% of energy costs associated with case

lighting.  Also, there is no need to install new ballasts, because the

several smaller clip lights can be hooked up to one transformer.

My remaining concerns are finding a natural looking color and keeping the

current amount of visible light for a reasonable price.  LEDs are measured

in micro-lumens instead of lumens, so I'm expecting the cost to be quite

high.

Looking forward to other opinions,

Amber



Amber Mohr

Curator/Collections Manager

The Kruger Collection

University of Nebraska

133 Architecture Hall

Lincoln, NE 68588-0107

402. 472. 3560

http://krugercollection.unl.edu/





                                                                           

             "Anna N. Dhody"                                               

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                                       [MUSEUM-L] Fiber-Optic Vs. LED      

                                       Lights for cases                    

             04/06/2006 11:25                                              

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Hello,



Can anybody offer me their opinion on the subject of Fiber-optic vs. LED

lighting for museum cases? We have primarily biological specimens in our

cases and we need to use a light source that does not give off heat. What

are some of the pro’s and con’s of these two options? Cost, ease of

maintenance, long term energy and up keep costs, etc. Any input would be

very helpful.



Thank You,



Anna







Anna Narissa Dhody

Collections Manager

Mütter Museum

College of Physicians of Philadelphia

19 S. 22nd Street

Philadelphia, PA 19103

(215) 563-3737 ext. 273

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