Terminology » Components » LED Tube Types: A, B, and C Explained

LED Tube Types: A, B, and C Explained

led tube led lighting type a type b type c

LED lighting has exploded in popularity, thanks to its long lifespan, energy efficiency, and ease of control. But navigating the world of LED tubes can be a little confusing, especially when you start seeing terms like Type-A, Type-B, and Type-C. This article breaks down the differences between these LED tube types.

LED Tube Type-A

LED tube type-A

Features of LED tube type-A:

  • Uses an existing electronic ballast.
  • Operates on 100-277V AC at 50/60 Hz.
  • Requires ballast replacement during maintenance.
  • Considered to have a “risk of fire and electrical shock”.
  • Needs both ballast and lamp holder replacements.
  • Essentially, Type-A tubes are designed to be a relatively simple replacement for fluorescent tubes, utilizing the existing ballast.

LED Tube Type-B

LED tube type-B

Features of LED tube type-B:

  • Uses a magnetic ballast.
  • Operates on 100-277V AC at 50/60 Hz.
  • Designed to operate with an internal driver, but can also be directly connected to mains power.
  • Incoming power lines are directly connected to sockets, potentially exposing individuals to AC voltage.
  • Also carries a “risk of fire and electrical shock”.
  • Type-B tubes often bypass the ballast altogether, requiring some rewiring for direct connection to the mains.

LED Tube Type-C

LED tube type-C

Features of LED tube type-C:

  • Does not use any ballast.
  • Operates on 100-249V AC at 50/60 Hz.
  • Uses an external driver and requires a modified fixture compared to Type-A and Type-B.
  • Low voltage outputs from the driver are connected to sockets instead of the line voltage used in Type-A and Type-B.
  • Fixture input wires must be interfaced with the driver.
  • Type-C solutions use an external driver to power the LED tube which is a safer, low voltage option.