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Does the luminaire deliver the quality, color, and texture of light that we are after?
Is the luminaire / lamp dimmable? Is the source instant on / off?
Does the luminaire create excessive glare?
Is the luminaire aimable / adjustable?
The luminaire in Figure 21.1 is really nothing more than a holder for an MR-16 lamp. As such, the lamp is going to dictate most of the light delivery properties. The MR-16 lamp is a low voltage halogen lamp, so we know that it is instant on and off, is easily dimmable, and is a very directional light.
IC rating is a common issue that comes up with recessed luminaires. IC
rating stands for “Insulation Contact.” It is a rating that indicates that the luminaire housing is cool enough to be in contact with fiberglass and batt insulation. We encounter this insulation most commonly on residential projects,
so when designing for a residence, it is always prudent to determine if the luminaires need to be or are IC rated.
Lamp and Electrical Basics:
Are there multiple lamp / source options? Does the luminaire require multiple lamps? What are the luminaire voltage options?
What are the luminaire wattage limitations (Maximum wattage)? Does the luminaire require a ballast or transformer?
The luminaire here accepts MR-16 lamps up to 75 watts for the non-IC housing and up to 50 Watts for the IC version. The IC rated housing limits lamp wattage to limit potential heat. Because the MR-16 lamp is a “low voltage” source, we know that the luminaire requires a transformer. In this case, the transformer is integral to the luminaire. Often, a luminaire will not include a transformer, and a remote transformer will be required.
Light Output Performance:
What is the lumen output of the luminaire? What is the efficacy / efficiency of the luminaire? What is the distribution shape of the luminaire?