Surface Mount Device (SMD) LEDs work by converting electrical energy directly into light when current passes through specific semiconductor materials.
The core mechanism relies on a semiconductor crystal, which is the luminescent element contained within the LED. As detailed in the provided reference, this element produces light when current flows through it. This phenomenon, known as electroluminescence, happens when electrons and holes (positive charge carriers) recombine within the semiconductor material, releasing energy in the form of photons (light).
Structurally, according to the reference:
- SMD LEDs are rectangular in shape.
- They consist of three cells.
- These cells house the critical luminescent element (the semiconductor crystal).
- To safeguard these internal components, resins are used to completely cover the upper part of the SMD LED.
In essence, the flow of electricity through the tiny semiconductor crystal is the fundamental principle that makes an SMD LED illuminate, with the surrounding structure providing protection and connection points.
