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LED Tube Types

Type A Linear LED Tubes (Ballast Compatible)

Type A LED tubes are fluorescent ballast compatible LED linear lamps.  Type A  LED tubes are also known as Plug & Play lamps.  These tubes use the existing ballast, functioning as a traditional lamp. The benefits of Type A  LED tubes are control and safety.  The wattages and lumen output for this type of tube can be controlled by the existing ballast: Low Power (LP), Normal Power (NP), and High Power (HP).  Most often, Type A  lamps are installed simply by replacing existing fluorescent linear lamps creating a safer installation when compared to Type B tubes.  Although these tubes are considered ballast compatible, not all manufacturers’ ballast are compatible.  Most LED tube manufacturers suggest reviewing their list of compatible ballast before installing Type A  LED tubes.  It is important to consider the age and compatibility of your ballast when choosing Type A  tubes.  

Type B Linear LED Tubes (Ballast Bypass)

Type B LED tubes are fluorescent ballast bypass LED linear lamps.  Type B lamps are also known as line voltage lamps.  These tubes have an internal driver built into the lamp and are intended to be directly wired to the power source bypassing the ballast. The benefits of Type B LED tubes are the cost savings and maintenance savings.  Arguably the most popular, Type B tubes are less expensive compared to other type tubes, and reduce maintenance cost by eliminating the ballast.  Although popular, Type B is also the most dangerous of the types of LED tubes. These lamps require the removal of the existing ballast, and directly wiring the line voltage to a non-shunted lamp holders (sockets).  It is important to mark the fixture as having directly wired lamps to avoid electrical shock and/or fires if lamps need to be replaced in the future.

Type C Linear LED Tubes (External Driver)

Type C LED tubes are externally driven LED linear lamps.  Type C lamps require a fixture mounted driver and are installed in the same manner as traditional fluorescent ballast and lamps.  The benefits of Type C LED tubes are the dimming capabilities and lifespan.  The Type C tubes are available with programmable outputs, dimming capabilities, and a longer lifespan.  Although these tubes offer premium capabilities and quality, they are the least popular because of their price point.  When considering these lamps it is smart to consider LED module systems.

Type A+B Linear LED Tubes (Ballast Bypass & Compatible)

Type A+B LED tubes are fluorescent ballast bypass and/or compatible LED linear lamps.  Formerly known as Type D, A+B lamps are sometimes called combo or magic tubes.  A+B tubes are intended to be used with or without ballast.  The benefits of the Type A+B LED tubes are safety and versatility.  The combo tubes reduce installation issues and offer maximum flexibility in both technology and application: Plug & Play for ballast compatible operation or removal of the ballast for ballast bypass operation. Although these tubes are considered ballast compatible, not all manufacturers’ ballast are compatible.  Most LED tube manufacturers suggest reviewing their list of compatible ballast before installing Type A+B LED tubes.

LeanLight proudly offers high quality LED tubes by Keystone Technologies and Sylvania LED tubes may be purchased at LeanLight.com:

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