Cree has introduced smaller surface-mount power LEDs, competing with Lumileds' Luxeon Rebel.

Dubbed XP-E and XP-C and measuring 3.45mm square by 2mm high, "these LEDs have the smallest footprint in the industry for lighting-class LEDs, providing the same lighting performance and reliability as XR-E and XR-C LEDs in an 80% smaller package," said Cree.

Available bins for XP-Es, claimed the firm, include minimums of 100 lm at 350mA in cool white (5,000-10,000K) and 80.6 lm at 350mA in warm white (2,600-3,700K).

Maximum drive current is 700mA and thermal resistance is 9°C/W - comparing well with 8°C/W claimed for the far larger XR-E package. The thermal path is electrically neutral.

Viewing angle is 115°, compared with 90° for white XR-Es, suggesting new optics will be required for best performance.

The XP-C has a smaller die and correspondingly different characteristics compared with to the XP-E - a similar situation to the existing XR-C and XR-E.

XP devices have unlimited floor life before reflow soldering if stored at or below 30°C and 85% relative humidity.

Applications are foreseen in backlighting, signage, outdoor, indoor and portable lighting.

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