COLOUR BINNING /
MACADAM STEPS
Every LED light source, even within the same colour temperature,
exhibits natural, microscopic colour variations. Colour binning is
a process of selecting LEDs that allows us to control these variations
and maintain visual consistency in the finished luminaires.
With colour binning, all LED chips emit light of a similar hue, resulting
in a harmonious interior appearance and a predictable design effect.
Colour differences remain invisible in everyday use, even with multiple
luminaires in a single space.
Colour consistency is described by the SDCM parameter, which
determines the maximum colour deviation between lamps. The lower
the SDCM value, the higher the colour uniformity. In standard
applications, this ensures visual comfort, while in demanding
applications, it allows for the use of more precise selection for perfect
colour perception.
Colour binning is a key element of quality control, ensuring that the
light doesn’t attract attention with colour differences but consistently
creates a pleasant interior atmosphere.
Why it matters
Controlled colour binning ensures that light:
· appears uniform across a space
· remains visually consistent when multiple luminaires are used together
· delivers a predictable and professional lighting effect
Understanding SDCM
Colour consistency is defined by SDCM (Standard Deviation of Colour Matching), based on MacAdam
ellipses, which represent colour differences perceptible to the human eye.
· SDCM 1 – special selection, near perfect colour uniformity
· SDCM 2 – very high colour consistency – difference undetectable by an eye
· SDCM 3 – standard catalogue consistency, visually uniform in most applications
– only a trained observer capable of detecting inconsistency
· SDCM 4 – moderate colour tolerance, slight differences may be perceptible in sensitive environments
· SDCM 5 – extended colour tolerance, suitable for non-visually critical applications
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