MR16
MR16 is a standard format for halogen reflector lamps made. MR stands for Multifaceted Reflector and 16 is the number of eighths of an inch the front is in diameter, in the case of MR16 it will be 2 inches.MR16 lamps are regularly used in place of compact fluorescent lamps or standard incandescent light bulbs for different applications like residential lighting. The original purpose for designing MR 16 lamps is for use in slide projectors. Other applications that require directional lighting of low to medium intensity, such as track lighting, recessed ceiling lights etc also use MR 16 lamps. Halogen MR16 lamps consist of a halogen capsule integrated with a pressed glass reflector. Specifically considering the size and other features the reflector of an MR16 lamp is 2 inches in diameter. This compact size of the MR16 allows for much smaller, more discreet fixtures. The direction and spread of light cast from the lamp is controlled by the reflector. MR16 lamps are available with different beam angles from narrow spot lights of as small as 7 degrees to wide flood lamps of 60 degrees. These lamps are available at different prices, in less-expensive lamps, the reflector has an aluminum coating that reflects all light where as in more-expensive lamps, the reflector commonly has a diachronic coating, this coating helps reflect only particular frequencies of the visible spectrum in the direction the lamp is facing and stop reflecting infrared light. As a result these lamps reduce the amount of heating of the subject they are focused on. This combination of the halogen light source and diachronic coating also means that these lamps provide a higher color temperature than standard incandescent bulbs. This makes them good for use at places where color temperature is important. Using appropriate fixtures and dimmers the brightness of MR16 lamps can be adjusted. This will also result in color temperature changes.MR16 lamps produce significant heat, and care must be taken to avoid contact with skin or proximity to flammable materials when the lamp is on. Considering the efficiency factor halogen MR16 lamps are typically more efficient than standard, but not as efficient as the LED technology. The expected life of an MR 16 lamp is 1000 to 3000 years. These lamps are less strain on the eyes, giving the pupils more time to react to a sudden increase in lighting level.MR16-compatible LED lamps are also available. They are similar in shape to halogen MR16 lamps, and can be used in most fixtures designed for MR16 lamps. Products from some manufacturers incorporate full wave rectification so that either AC or DC can be used while others require a DC supply and correct polarity must be observed. As with other LED lamps available today, the quality and color temperature of the white light produced by such lamps varies. Many tend towards the blue end of the spectrum, being even cooler than fluorescent. Because of these variations, some MR16 compatible LED lamps create significantly more natural looking light than others.
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