LED lamps "Gauss": reviews, overview of the advantages and disadvantages of the manufacturer

Tomic Filament Light Bulb Driver

The use of the LED principle requires the installation of a driver located inside the base. The purpose of the device is to reduce the current from the network to a parameter that is safe for LED elements.

The driver consists of the following elements:

1. Fuse.
2. Diode bridge rectifier.
3. Smoothing capacitors.
4. Microcircuit of a pulse current regulator with additional components. The circuit includes a diode, a choke, an RF resistance capacitor.

Of particular interest is the driver circuit. A fuse F1 is installed in the phase wire, instead of which you can put a resistance up to 20 ohms up to 1 W of power.

The elements of the scheme also include:

• diode bridge for rectifying current for a voltage of 400 - 1000 V, DB1;
• capacitor for smoothing ripples at the output of DB1, E2;
• additional capacitance for supplying voltage to the circuit, E1;
• device driver that makes the whole circuit work, SM7315P;
• output ripple filtering capacitance, E3;
• current sensor for adjusting the current strength in the light source circuit, R1 (the higher the resistance, the lower the current);
• resistance to reduce the current on the converter, R2;
• diode that ensures the operation of the converter, D1;
• storage inductance for voltage conversion, L

In fact, the elements D1, L1 and the transistor switch form a typical switching converter circuit.

Which firm is better?

The best manufacturers of quality LED light sources:

1. Nichia is a Japanese firm specializing in the development of diodes and accessories. It is one of the oldest in its industry. It has a reputation as a manufacturer of extra-class goods and is considered a leader in the production of ultra-bright devices.
2. Osram is a German brand founded over a hundred years ago. Associated with another well-known company - Siemens, and owns almost fifty industries around the world.
3. Cree is an American company that originally made chips that were used to make mobile phones and car dashboards. Today, a well-established company with a full cycle produces LEDs for various purposes.
4. Philips is a well-known corporation with factories in 60 countries, which is famous for its investments in innovative developments. It has an annual turnover of millions of euros and high growth rates in production volumes.

In addition to the above, popular models of diode lighting devices are produced by Russian brands - ERA, Gauss, Navigator, Ecola, as well as Chinese companies - ASD and VOLPE.

Types of lamps for 12 V

Incandescent lamps.

Most of them are produced for operation with a voltage of 220 V, but some of their types are made in a low-voltage version of 12 V. The latter include local, decorative (Christmas tree garlands) and transport light sources.

Incandescent lamp 12 V local

The power of a local incandescent lamp is in the range of 15-60 watts. And 12-volt they are made to work in hazardous areas. They are used to illuminate workplaces, including on machine tools and other industrial equipment. As a rule, such light sources are equipped with an e27 or e14 screw base.

Car incandescent lamps 12 V

Transport lamps have a variety of bases and are distinguished by high mechanical and vibration resistance. The supply voltage differs for each mode of transport: 12-volt lamps are produced mainly for cars. Special design solutions are presented for bulbs in headlights: two filaments are mounted in them.

traffic light

Also, low-voltage incandescent lamps of increased mechanical strength are used in railway traffic lights. Their power ranges from 15 to 35 watts. A special base with a latch prevents falling out of the cartridge.

switch lamp

Switch lamps are used as signal lamps on telephone switches. They are produced in different voltages, including 12 V. During production, they are subject to requirements for luminous intensity in the direction of the lamp axis and the heating temperature of the bulb (should not exceed 120⁰).

Halogen lamps.

By design, they differ little from incandescent lamps. But the addition of halogen vapors allows you to work longer and shine brighter.

"Halogens" are also available in a low-voltage version of 12 V. They are used for spot lighting (including in stretch ceilings), safe lighting of flammable and wet rooms, and automotive lighting.

A variety of group H bases are used for car lighting. For other groups, pin bases are used to avoid connecting to a 220 V network.

There are two groups of low-voltage "halogens": capsule and directional action.

capsule lamp

Capsule - compact, power from 5 to 100 watts. Used for decorative lighting (5-10 W), general lighting and in cars.

Light source with reflector

If you add a reflector to the capsule lamp, you get the second type of "halogens". The reflector forms a beam of directional light. If the reflector is coated with a special composition that reflects infrared radiation, then the lamp is called IRC-halogen. IRC is the most energy efficient type. The coating reflects infrared radiation back to the helix. This leads to a reduction in electricity consumption. Reflector lamps are available with or without protective glass. This is used by designers to create various decorative highlights. Also light sources with a reflector are suitable for general lighting and for cars.

LED (led) lamps.

Widely available in low voltage version. Power is usually in the range of 0.4-8 watts. There are a variety of form options.

Led open type (without flask) and with a flask

flat lamps

Different shapes of the flask: capsule, petal, corn, candle

Available with all kinds of bases: for replacing incandescent and halogen lamps.

Some plinth options

Led sources lights come in different color temperatures: warm, neutral, cold.

They are used for lighting (general, spot, decorative), in cars, etc.

Main characteristics

Power. Shows how much electricity is consumed. Led - the most economical. Such light sources are low-power: 1 - 5 W, 7-10 W, 11, 13, 15 W. There are intermediate powers: 3.3, 2.4 W, etc.

The table shows the equivalent power of led and halogen lamps.

LED power, W	Halogen power, W
1	15
3	25
5	50
7	70
9	90
12	120
15	150

Light flow. The parameter describes the brightness: the higher it is, the higher the brightness. It should be noted that LED light sources have the highest luminous efficiency. This means that with the same power, led will shine brighter than others.

Colorful temperature. LEDs are able to shine in different light:

• warm (2700-3500 K);
• neutral (3500-4500 K);
• cold (4500-6500 K).

Warm colors promote relaxation. They are well suited for bedrooms, recreation rooms.

Neutral tones increase efficiency, suitable for kitchens, offices, etc.

Cold light invigorates, but with prolonged use causes irritation. Suitable for non-residential premises and for works where good light is needed.

Color rendering index (CRI or Ra). Indicates whether there will be color distortion in the room. Measured from 1 to 100. The higher the index, the less distortion. Led g9 usually have a good color rendering index: above 80.

Light scattering angle. The parameter shows the angle at which the light from the source diverges.Light sources of open type "corn" shine in all directions at 360⁰. The scattering angle of led-lamps with a diffuser does not exceed 240⁰, while for spotlights it is 30⁰.

Scattering angle

Life time. LED light sources are the longest-lived: from 20,000 to 50,000 hours, depending on the manufacturer.

Dimensions. Lamps are available in different sizes, but they are all quite miniature.

When choosing a led for a particular lamp, it is important to consider the size of the light bulb. When replacing g9 halogens with LEDs, remember that led is slightly larger

Operating conditions. For g9, the permissible operating temperature range is from -40⁰С to +50⁰С.

What is a dimmable LED lamp?

This is a device equipped with a PWM function unit, i.e. capabilities of pulse-width modulation. The block has in its design a specific circuit that allows you to recognize the adjustment. It controls the stabilizer, which is located in the case and changes the brightness of the lighting.

Ordinary energy-saving electric lamps cannot be turned on through a dimmer - these two devices are incompatible. The conflict manifests itself in a blinking or weak glow of the device in the off state. We talked about other reasons for flashing LED lamps here.

And since LED or fluorescent lamps are designed for a certain number of cycles of activating the light source and turning it off, then they burn out with such use in a month or two.

The design of a dimmable LED lamp is distinguished by the presence of a special driver that is responsible for dimming

The fact is that inside the energy-saving lamps there is a capacitor (electronic converter), to which a certain amount of current flows even when it is turned off.

The capacitor, gaining the necessary charge, feeds the diode, and it flashes from time to time, despite the off state.

It was impossible to adjust the brightness of LED lamps before the advent of dimmable models - they were not suitable for use with a dimmer

Creating an E27 LED lamp from an energy-saving one using a ready-made driver

For self-production of LED lamps, we need:

1. Failed CFL lamp.
2. HK6 LEDs.
3. Pliers.
4. Soldering iron.
5. Solder.
6. Cardboard.
7. Head on shoulders.
8. Skillful hands.
9. Accuracy and care.

We will remake a defective LED CFL brand "Cosmos".

"Cosmos" is one of the most popular brands of modern energy-saving lamps, so many zealous owners will definitely have several of its faulty copies.

Step-by-step instructions for making an LED lamp

We find a faulty energy-saving lamp, which has been with us for a long time “just in case”. Our lamp has a power of 20W. So far, the main component of interest to us is the base.
We carefully disassemble the old lamp and remove everything from it, except for the base and the wires coming from it, with which we will then solder the finished driver. The lamp is assembled with the help of latches protruding above the body. You need to see them and put something on them. Sometimes the base is attached to the body more difficult - by punching dotted recesses around the circumference. Here you have to drill the punching points or carefully cut them with a hacksaw. One supply wire is soldered to the central contact of the base, the second to the thread. Both are very short.

The tubes may burst during these manipulations, so care must be taken.
We clean the base and degrease it with acetone or alcohol
Increased attention should be paid to the hole, which is also carefully cleaned of excess solder. This is necessary for further soldering in the base.

The base cover has six holes - gas discharge tubes were attached to them
We use these holes for our LEDs

Place a circle of the same diameter cut with nail scissors from a suitable piece of plastic under the upper part. Thick cardboard will work too. He will fix the contacts of the LEDs.

We have HK6 multi-chip LEDs (voltage 3.3 V, power 0.33 W, current 100-120 mA). Each diode is assembled from six crystals (connected in parallel), so it shines brightly, although it is not called powerful. Given the power of these LEDs, we connect them three in parallel.

Both chains are connected in series.

As a result, we get a rather beautiful design.

A simple ready-made driver can be taken from a broken LED lamp. Now, to drive six white one-watt LEDs, we use a 220 volt driver, for example, RLD2-1.

We insert the driver into the base. Another cut out circle of plastic or cardboard is placed between the board and the driver to avoid a short circuit between the LED contacts and the driver parts. The lamp does not heat up, so any gasket is suitable.

We assemble our lamp and check if it works.

We have created a source with a light intensity of about 150-200 lm and a power of about 3 W, similar to a 30-watt incandescent lamp. But due to the fact that our lamp has a white glow color, it visually looks brighter. The part of the room illuminated by it can be increased by bending the LED leads. In addition, we received a wonderful bonus: a three-watt lamp can not even be turned off - the meter practically does not “see” it.

Main types of products

Unlike traditional incandescent lamps, LED sources do not have strict design features and are available in a variety of, sometimes very unexpected, configurations. That allows you to embed them in modern and rare lamps of any type.

The classification is carried out into three subspecies. The first category includes general purpose products. They are distinguished by high-quality light flux with a scattering angle from 20° to 360° and are intended for lighting offices and residential premises for various purposes.

With the help of general-purpose LED lamps, you can organize a household lighting system of any complexity. It will work properly, while consuming a minimum amount of electrical energy.

The second block includes directional light modules operating on one or more LEDs. The use of these products allows you to create accent lighting and highlight some areas or interior elements in the room.

LEDs designed to create directional lighting have a specific design and are called spots. Suitable for embedding in furniture, shelf and wall placement

Linear type LED lamps look like classic fluorescent devices. They are made in the form of tubes of different lengths.

They are mainly used in the technical rooms of a house or apartment, in offices and sales areas where bright and economical lighting is required that can emphasize all the details.

Linear LED lighting is available for low voltage applications.This makes it possible to use it in the kitchen, where, due to high humidity, more stringent requirements are imposed on lighting sources.

With the help of linear and other types of LED modules, you can competently and beautifully equip high-quality lighting of enclosed spaces and local areas where fire safety is a priority.

Integration with voice assistants

Agree, there is nothing to talk about convenience if such gadgets cannot be controlled using voice assistants. The WiZ application works together with Alice, everyone's favorite voice assistant from Yandex.

Using voice commands, users can easily turn on Gauss lamps and change their operating modes. To synchronize with Alice, you will need an account in Yandex. Next you need to follow the instructions:

• create a 6-digit pin code in the WiZ application. To do this, move the switch in the upper right corner to the "on" position;
• we enter the account through the Yandex application, enter the received pin code and follow the instructions of the program.
• when the list of Gauss devices is updated, an icon with the image of a light bulb or lamp will appear in it. Further, the gadget can be safely controlled through Alice.

Further, the gadget can be safely controlled through "Alice". It's simple: for example, "Alice, turn on the light" or "Alice, turn on the light in the living room." If it is too dark, you can ask to increase the brightness. If the lamp supports color adjustment, then Alice will gladly change it to fit your mood.

Tips for choosing

In order not to throw money away and not stumble upon a product of poor quality or not fully satisfying your needs, we suggest using a few tips for choosing. The following criteria should be evaluated:

• Coating.Lamps come in 2 types of coating - matte and transparent. The former help to soften the effect of bright light.
• Used power. Usually this indicator is indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging. Experts recommend purchasing a lamp with a power characteristic of 11 watts.
• Consider the luminous flux. It is necessary for those who are going to install lamps for external lighting, or for it to “work” in a large room.
• voltage indicator. It is needed to buy a dimmer that will work perfectly in combination with an LED lamp.
• choosing directly a product that supports the option to change the brightness. Its presence or absence is indicated on the packaging, next to the power indicator.
• temperature tone. There are two types of shade on which the light in the room depends - warm and cold. Warm light is characterized by a yellowish tint, while cold light is white, bright light.
• of course, the main parameter is the base. Not all lamps have the same base. Due to the fact that each electrical appliance has an individual cartridge, the base is selected based on the type of cartridge.

And now, when the main points have been agreed, let's go directly to the review.

Rating of pear-shaped (classic) LED lamps

LS E27 A67 21W

This is a product of Russian manufacturers. The pear shape, in principle, acts as a classic in the category of light bulbs. Its users note switching from one brightness mode to another as quite smooth. We also note that this sample is certified, and it has all the necessary documents on environmental safety. You don't have to worry about this item. In addition, long-term functioning is noted.In terms of application, this sample is ideal for installing it at home or in a small workspace.

The average cost of such a lamp will be 200 rubles.

LS E27 A67 21W
Advantages:

• long work;
• optimal brightness control.

Flaws:

not detected.

Voltega E27 8W 4000K

The country of origin is Germany. The device has a transparent coating, which makes it possible to supply bright light. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor lighting. With the help of a dimmer, you can easily change the brightness in one direction or another.

This sample will cost 335 rubles.

Voltega E27 8W 4000K
Advantages:

• just like the previous model, it will last a long time;
• bright light due to the transparency of the bulb.

Flaws:

not detected

Pled-dim a60

Belongs to the category of more budget. A model with a power of 10 W is a good helper in ensuring the optimal level of illumination of the room. It is also worth noting a good service life. If you continuously use the lamp, then it will last for 1500 days. This is a very good indicator. The cover of the flask is transparent, providing a bright light supply. Just like the first sample we are considering, this one has passed all kinds of checks that speak of its reliability and environmental friendliness. And the price with all these characteristics will pleasantly surprise you - an average of 170 rubles.

Pled-dim a60
Advantages:

• acceptable price;
• operation for an extended period.
• base suitable for use in most electrical appliances - E27;
• optimum power.

Flaws:

this model not found.

Jazzway 2855879

In terms of quality, this sample is in no way inferior to the previous ones. It also boasts a long service life. Manufacturers have defined a warm temperature shade here, which indicates the use in a residential area. The maximum power of the lamp is 12 W, which is ideal for use with a dimmer. You can buy goods for an average of 250 rubles.

Jazzway 2855879
Advantages:

• high operational level;
• optimal level of temperature shade;
• socle E27.

Flaws:

not identified.

GENERAL LIGHTING E27

The product of this company is often used in the creation of high quality lighting. Many buyers, leaving reviews about this product, note its quality, which does not change with time of use. If we talk about the period of use, then here it is about 35,000 hours. And this is a good indicator. It is possible to operate the lamp using a dimmer - a dimmer, which is located on the wall.

As for the cost, it cannot be said that it is optimal - an average of 480 rubles. But it all depends on what power the lamp you get. The more power, the higher the cost.

GENERAL LIGHTING E27
Advantages:

• top manufacturer;
• high class product.

Flaws:

the price may seem high to some.

Eglo E14 4W 3000K

This sample differs from all of the ones listed above by the type of base. Here it is E14. And this suggests that it is not standard, and is not suitable for all electrical appliances. Be careful when you decide to purchase this particular model. Let's move on to the next specification. Due to its power of 4W, the lighting area will be approximately 1.2 sq.m. note also the warm tinted light.Suitable for lighting small spaces. Given that the bulb has a matte finish, the emitted light is pleasant to perceive, and is similar to the light that comes from the sun. The brightness level is easily adjustable with a dimmer. In terms of service life, it loses to the previous lamp, because. here it is rated for about 15,000 hours.

The cost per unit of goods will be about 500 rubles.

Eglo E14 4W 3000K
Advantages:

• pleasant light;
• high quality product

Flaws:

high price.

How the scheme works

The principle of operation of the circuit is simple. The input voltage is rectified using a diode bridge. Further, due to the action of the capacitance and capacitor, the current is smoothed.

On the way to the microcircuit, the current is converted into RF pulses, smoothed with a capacitor. Subsequently, power is supplied to the filament LED and returned to the network.

As for the driver, it includes a PWM controller and additional devices (comparators, multiplexers, etc.). They compare the real and rated currents, and then send a signal to the PWM controller to make edits to the duty cycle of the pulses.

About Gauss brand and Warton company

To make it easier to understand where the Gauss brand came from on the Russian market, you need to get acquainted with the history of the Varton company. This is a fairly young enterprise that emerged in 2009 and managed to master two main areas by 2018 - its own production of LED lamps and the sale of high-class Chinese products.

It all started with the distribution of Chinese lines of lamps, first fluorescent, and then (since 2010) LED. They enter the Russian market under the brand name Gauss.

The name arose for a reason.LED lamps are named after the great mathematician Gauss, who made his discoveries at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. Among other things, he studied the power of light from natural sources and the possibility of converting energy into light.

Today the Warton company is known in Russia and abroad. She actively participates in international exhibitions, demonstrating achievements in the field of lighting technology.

In addition to the sale of Chinese LED products, the company provided the production of its own lamps. The production is located in the Tula region, in the small town of Bogoroditsk. On the site where the abandoned factory was previously located, a complex of modernized workshops equipped with new lines and machines appeared.

Under the Warton brand, high-quality lamps are produced for industrial, educational, public and administrative buildings.

But for a simple user, Gauss products are closer - LED lamps for home use. Most of them are equipped with a plinth - for chandeliers and lamps, but some series are designed specifically for spot lighting.

Why did the owners of the company rely on LED products, since they started with fluorescent? Wise and enterprising leaders realized in time that the time was coming for more economical, safer and less expensive products.

In addition, in 2009, the federal law "On Energy Saving" was adopted, which regulates the economical consumption of electricity and its efficient use at state-owned enterprises.

This is interesting: what lamps to choose for tension ceilings: explain in general terms

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Even more information about the popular brand is presented in the video reviews of the model ranges and specific modifications.

Video #1 12W LED model testing and performance review:

Video #2 Comparative test with other brands:

Video #3 Why Buyer Choose Gauss:

Video #4 Possible defects of the manufacturer:

Gauss brand products really deserve approval. Of course, some series or models may have technical shortcomings, but they are compensated by significant pluses. These lamps can be safely put among the best representatives in their segment. Typically, products fully meet the expectations of users.

Would you like to talk about the quality and service life of the Gauss energy-saving light bulb? Share which one you prefer to buy and why. Please leave comments in the block below, ask questions, post photos on the topic of the article.