New NEMA Standard: TLEDs and Outdoor Retrofit Kits

LDS 12 CS NEMA 400 copy

June 21, 2019

With the rapidly changing light-emitting diode (LED) light sources for general illumination, there is a need for a standardized tubular LED (TLED) lamp specification sheet format that allows for the direct comparison of common TLED characteristics across manufacturers, says the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA).

NEMA’s new standardized specification sheet (ANSI C78.54-2019) recommends the performance, operational, physical, and electrical characteristics that should be a part of any TLED specification sheet. Manufacturers have the flexibility to provide supplemental information in order to assist users further. Standardizing the features and performance data to be reported by manufacturers is intended to enable comparisons of key features and performance of TLED sources, says NEMA.

The purpose is to standardize the Tubular LED (TLED) Lamp specification sheet, or data reporting format, as the means of communication of critical lamp characteristics, such as

  • intended use ballasts (if applicable)
  • Rreference circuit (if applicable)
  • input voltage requirements (for use with mains voltage)
  • other characteristics may include physical dimensions and/or temperature ratings for operation.

This standard will cover all types of fluorescent replacement and retrofit TLED systems, including:

  • ballast driven (commonly referred to as Type A)
  • mains voltage driven (commonly referred to as Type B)
  • external driver driven (commonly referred to as Type C), or hybrid type replacements.

Lamps that do not fit existing replacement sockets, i.e., new lamp configurations, are not part of this standard.

Find out more

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • LEDVANCE Expands Ontario Presence with New Specification Agent

    LEDVANCE Expands Ontario Presence with New Specification Agent

    LEDVANCE is pleased to announce the appointment of Sterling Architectural Products Ltd. (Sterling Lights) as their new specification agent in Ontario. This partnership strengthens LEDVANCE’s presence in the region and reinforces their commitment to serving the professional lighting design and specification community with innovative, reliable lighting solutions. With decades of experience and a service-driven mindset,… Read More…

  • May 29, 2025 - Eureka Wins Three 2025 Red Dot Awards for Product Design

    Eureka Wins Three 2025 Red Dot Awards for Product Design

    Eureka is pleased to announce that its Velia, Cirra, and Junction luminaires have each received a 2025 Red Dot Design Award for Product Design. It is the 11th consecutive year that Eureka products have been honored with this prestigious award, which is a testament to the company’s consistency and relentless drive to design exceptional luminaires.… Read More…


Design

  • The Difference Between Accent, Ambient & Task Lighting: Ultimate Guide

    The Difference Between Accent, Ambient & Task Lighting: Ultimate Guide

    In interior design, lighting is not just about brightening the room. Sensitive lighting layout is the key in the whole aesthetic atmosphere. An outstanding lighting solution will not rely on one type of fixture. Rather, it is through the combination of different types of lighting. Accent, ambient, and task lighting are three basic types of… Read More…

  • Graphic Office Interiors Enhance Their Office Space, Incorporating State-Of-The-Art Lighting Solutions

    Graphic Office Interiors Enhance Their Office Space, Incorporating State-Of-The-Art Lighting Solutions

    Graphic Office Interiors, a renowned office design and furnishings company serving Vancouver Island since 1966, embarked on a unique lighting project for their personal office in Saanichton, BC. This project marked the first collaboration between Kelly Inglis of Mac’s II Agencies and Graphic Office Interiors’ in-house registered interior designer, Laura Harlos. Known for their exclusive Steelcase furniture line, modular moveable… Read More…


New Products

  • Eureka Announces New Accessories for Scout Luminaire

    Eureka Announces New Accessories for Scout Luminaire

    Eureka has announced the enhancement of its Scout luminaire family with the introduction of new accessories and a new color palette. Three new diffusers have been introduced. Bell is minimalist, translucent and cloche-shaped. Pebble introduces a soft touch and an ambient glow in a distinct, oval-shaped diffuser. Orb is sleek and dome-shaped, adding a touch… Read More…

  • Amico: SOLAR ECLIPSE – 2X4 Multi-Functional Luminaire

    Amico: SOLAR ECLIPSE – 2X4 Multi-Functional Luminaire

    The Solar Eclipse Series provides a multi-functional luminaire that supports the demands of the hospital environment. The sleek and modern design merges architectural aesthetics with exceptional lighting performance to improve patient comfort while maximizing clinical efficiencies. This architectural patient room fixture offers reading, ambient, and exam functionalities and an optional night light. Multi-functional capabilities provide… Read More…