Choosing LED modules for a material-sample lightbox for TEI design research or an interactive exhibit? Compare compact edge-lit bars and direct backlighting for a box that lets visitors swap translucent samples. TEI's deLIGHTful Interactions workshop describes this use of a lightbox. This selection helps prototype fabricators choose internal light sources; it does not supply a finished testing instrument or the workshop equipment.
Which LEDs fit a lightbox for translucent material samples?
Measure the internal box and the distance to the sample support and diffuser. A compact edge-lit bar may fit a short perimeter; a direct-backlight bar faces the viewing surface from behind. Include mounts, lenses, connectors and wires when checking clearance. Test the actual paper, textile, glass or other sample stack on the complete assembly. Source length and optical layout matter more than choosing the highest wattage.
How can I compare materials without changing the light source?
Keep the LED layout, diffuser, supply and viewing conditions fixed while exchanging one sample at a time. Record any additional paper layer and sample thickness, because they change light transmission and the visible source pattern. For a deliberate white-light comparison, choose the dual-CCT variant and compatible controller first, then repeat the same sample arrangement in each available channel. This is a practical visual comparison, not a calibrated spectral or transmission measurement.
Compare LED lightbox sources
- 7W mini LED bar — DC24V, 200×23×16mm, 770lm, standard 20°×60° lens; verify end clearance and external driver.
- 12W dual-CCT direct-backlight bar: DC24V, 1320lm and 180° output. Each variant has two named white-light channels and needs compatible 3-wire JST control.
- 20W rigid LED bar — DC24V, 470×24×16mm including lens, 2200lm ±10%, 10°×40° optics; check frame section and connector pinout.
Does a dual-CCT bar provide every white tone automatically?
No. Choose one listed pair: 3000K + 4500K, 4500K + 6500K or 3000K + 6400K. A compatible 3-wire switch or controller selects those channels; intermediate mixing requires a controller that supports it. The power supply, switch, controller and harness are separate. Confirm channel wiring and polarity before connection, and do not assume that the 3-wire JST system connects to the edge-lit bars.
Before ordering
Check the sample-support material, source distance, stable mounting, heat management and access for sample changes. Confirm the actual module dimensions and wiring clearance before cutting the box. The featured sources use external DC24V constant-voltage power; size the complete circuit and control components for their real load. An experimental material is not automatically suitable as an enclosure or electrical insulation, and module specifications do not certify the finished lightbox.
Send the box's internal dimensions, diffuser and sample materials, desired fixed CCT or channel pair, available power, drawing and quantity. We can help compare LED components for a prototype, then confirm the selected model before a repeat build. Consult TEI for current programme and participation information.
Contact us · Shipping policy · Organizer information
BOOTH LIGHTS is an independent supplier; no affiliation with or endorsement by the event organizer is implied.
Choosing LED modules for a material-sample lightbox for TEI design research or an interactive exhibit? Compare compact edge-lit bars and direct backlighting for a box that lets visitors swap translucent samples. TEI's deLIGHTful Interactions workshop describes this use of a lightbox. This selection helps prototype fabricators choose internal light sources; it does not supply a finished testing instrument or the workshop equipment.
Which LEDs fit a lightbox for translucent material samples?
Measure the internal box and the distance to the sample support and diffuser. A compact edge-lit bar may fit a short perimeter; a direct-backlight bar faces the viewing surface from behind. Include mounts, lenses, connectors and wires when checking clearance. Test the actual paper, textile, glass or other sample stack on the complete assembly. Source length and optical layout matter more than choosing the highest wattage.
How can I compare materials without changing the light source?
Keep the LED layout, diffuser, supply and viewing conditions fixed while exchanging one sample at a time. Record any additional paper layer and sample thickness, because they change light transmission and the visible source pattern. For a deliberate white-light comparison, choose the dual-CCT variant and compatible controller first, then repeat the same sample arrangement in each available channel. This is a practical visual comparison, not a calibrated spectral or transmission measurement.
Compare LED lightbox sources
- 7W mini LED bar — DC24V, 200×23×16mm, 770lm, standard 20°×60° lens; verify end clearance and external driver.
- 12W dual-CCT direct-backlight bar: DC24V, 1320lm and 180° output. Each variant has two named white-light channels and needs compatible 3-wire JST control.
- 20W rigid LED bar — DC24V, 470×24×16mm including lens, 2200lm ±10%, 10°×40° optics; check frame section and connector pinout.
Does a dual-CCT bar provide every white tone automatically?
No. Choose one listed pair: 3000K + 4500K, 4500K + 6500K or 3000K + 6400K. A compatible 3-wire switch or controller selects those channels; intermediate mixing requires a controller that supports it. The power supply, switch, controller and harness are separate. Confirm channel wiring and polarity before connection, and do not assume that the 3-wire JST system connects to the edge-lit bars.
Before ordering
Check the sample-support material, source distance, stable mounting, heat management and access for sample changes. Confirm the actual module dimensions and wiring clearance before cutting the box. The featured sources use external DC24V constant-voltage power; size the complete circuit and control components for their real load. An experimental material is not automatically suitable as an enclosure or electrical insulation, and module specifications do not certify the finished lightbox.
Send the box's internal dimensions, diffuser and sample materials, desired fixed CCT or channel pair, available power, drawing and quantity. We can help compare LED components for a prototype, then confirm the selected model before a repeat build. Consult TEI for current programme and participation information.
Contact us · Shipping policy · Organizer information
BOOTH LIGHTS is an independent supplier; no affiliation with or endorsement by the event organizer is implied.