How to Select the Right Light Pipe
VCC is a leader in the development of high performance light pipes and we have trademarked our own line (Litepipes™) of innovative options for all your remote signaling and indication needs. To assist in your light pipe selection we’ve provided some factors below help you select the right type of light pipe for your project.
There are many factors to consider when selecting a light pipe to ensure the most effective use in your application. The most important of these considerations are listed below:
- Rigid or Flexible – There are two basic types of light pipes available and those are rigid and flexible. Both have their own strengths as described below:
Rigid light pipes are selected for applications where you have a straight or right angle connection from the power source to the display panel. This lightpipe type is generally smaller and less expensive as the wiring cost is minimized by the direct connection.
Flexible light pipes are used when your panel is further away from the power source or when you do not have a straight line of sight connection available. The VCC Flexible Litepipe™, one of the most advanced, can provide a 180° viewing angle and very little light degradation even when implemented with extreme bending angles.
- Shape, Size – An extensive selection of light pipe shapes and sizes are available to meet your production and signaling needs. The Litepipe™ series includes but is not limited to square, rectangle and round shapes with sizes ranging from 2.5mm to 5mm. When implementing an intricate signaling process, a combination of different shapes and sizes used in conjunction with different colored LEDs permits a wide range of options for providing clear communication.
- Environment – The environment in which you are placing your light pipe signaling connection is one of the most important considerations to take into account. VCC’s Litepipe™ series has both flexible and rigid options for use in locations that encounter moisture, dust and other debris that can damage and degrade normal connection types. The LMS and LCS series are moisture sealed and have been successfully used in a number of applications with dust and moisture exposure.
- Power – The amount of power available to power your signaling system is often determined by the heat sink abilities of your PCB. VCC’s Litepipe™ series can be implemented with minimum power consumption. There is also a high-intensity Litepipe™ available where a more intense light is required by the design or environment. One phone call or e-mail to your VCC representative or a look the VCC catalog will provide you with Litepipe™ specifications to find the exact requirements for your selection so it can be built into your power design.
VCC has long been a leader in this field and our experts can provide you with more in depth information regarding our wide array of Litepipes™ and inventive ways to implement them into your design. Contact us today at: www.vcclite.com for all your light pipe needs.







