AC Dimmable LED Projects

[sdscotto]

I have an idea for a new blog:

I have been looking into replacing some PAR30 halogen recessed flood pattern lights with LED based solutions.  Specifically, I have 6 of these lights in my living room and 10 in my office. 

While I certainly didn't expect a dimmable LED replacement solution to be the same cost as incandescent or halogen, I was shocked to find just how much they're asking for these lights.

Under $3.00 US for a PAR30 short-neck, 75W halogen flood, while similar LED solutions are between $45 and $85!

Honestly, I do not know how much goes into the design and manufacture of the LED based replacement.  I was thinking a blog explaining the challenges, costs, possible solutions, and future of LED based incandescent replacements would be an interesting blog and learning experience.

[PetrosA]

When you compare the lumen output, I think you'll find that the real competition is even more expensive

[Psi]

There just isn't enough consumer level high wattage led lights being sold to make them cheap yet.

The development of led technology is moving quite rapidly at the moment, you just need to give it a little time.

[Zero999]

High powered LEDs are expensive and often over-specified with a poor colour rendering index. Making a constant current source comparable with standard phase controlled dimmers is difficult and expensive, you're better off using a constant current source with a built-in dimmer and ripping out the old phase controller.