LM 79 & LM 80 Testing

Table of Content

INTRODUCTION

LM-79 is an approved method for taking electrical and photometric measurements of SSL products. It covers total flux (light output), electrical power, efficacy, chromaticity, and intensity distribution.

Why do we need LM-79 Testing?

Due to the variety of LED products available in the market, there is a need to assess the quality and various parameters associated with lighting products. LM-79 data enables objective product comparisons, allows for evaluation relative to performance requirements and give you a chance to improve your product quality.

What does it cover and what it does not covers?

It covers the LED based Solid state lighting (SSL) goods with control electronics and heat sinks incorporated, that is, those devices that requires only AC main power or a DC voltage power supply to operate. SSL products in the form of luminaries (fixtures incorporated light source) are covered in LM-79 Testing. This standard describes the test methods for individual SSL products.

It does not cover SSL products that require external operating circuits and external heat sinks such as LED chips, LED packages and LED module. Even this document does not cover the fixtures designed for SSL products sold without a light source and the performance rating of the product.

LM-80 Testing

LM-80 is a method to measure the Lumen depreciation of Solid state light source, array and module.

What does LM 80 covers?

It is a method to measure the Lumen depreciation of Solid state light source, array and module.

What LM 80 does not covers?

It does not cover the measurement of luminaries.
It does not define method for estimation of lumen life.

What is difference between LM 79 and LM 80 Testing?

Feature	LM-79 Testing	LM-80 Testing
Applies To	LED lamps, luminaires, fixtures	LED chips, modules, or arrays
Test Duration	Short-term (1–2 days)	Long-term (6,000 to 10,000+ hours)
Purpose	Measures photometric/electrical output	Measures lumen maintenance over time
Standard Type	Product performance	Component reliability
Required For	BIS, BEE, Energy Star, CE certification	TM-21 lifetime projection, BEE, warranty

Testing Procedure

LM-79 Testing Procedure:

Product Submission: LED lamp/luminaire sample provided.
Electrical Testing: Power, THD, power factor measured.
Photometric Testing: Using an integrating sphere or goniophotometer.
Report Generation: Certified test report issued for BIS, BEE, and export use.

LM-80 Testing Procedure:

Component Submission: LED packages/modules sent for aging test.
Controlled Test Setup: Drive current & temperature applied as per standard.
Monitoring Period: Regular light output & color measurement for 6,000–10,000+ hours.
Final Report: Supports TM-21 calculations for LED lifespan projection.

Why Choose Absolute Veritas for LED Light Testing?

NABL & BIS-recognized partner labs
End-to-end support for BIS registration and BEE compliance
Fast, reliable reporting
End-to-end support for BIS, BEE, and global certifications
Cost-effective packages for manufacturers, importers & startups

For more information about LM-79 and LM-80 Testing you can contact us at cs@absoluteveritas.com

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is LM-79 testing?

LM-79 is a standard published by the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) that specifies how to test the electrical and photometric performance of LED lighting products, such as bulbs, tube lights, and luminaires. It includes testing for luminous flux, efficacy, color temperature, CRI, and power consumption.

What is LM-80 testing?

LM-80 is a standard used to evaluate the long-term lumen maintenance and color stability of LED packages, arrays, or modules over time. It helps determine how well an LED maintains brightness and color quality during extended usage, often tested over 6,000 to 10,000 hours.

Is LM-79 testing mandatory for BIS certification in India?

Yes. LM-79 testing is required for LED products under the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). Products like LED bulbs, tube lights, and downlights must pass LM-79 testing at a BIS-recognized lab to be eligible for BIS registration..

Is LM-80 testing mandatory for LED products in India?

LM-80 testing is not directly required by BIS, but it is often needed for BEE Star Labelling, tender participation, or lifetime claims. It is essential if you want to demonstrate the reliability and long-term performance of your LED components.

How long does LM-79 and LM-80 testing take?

-LM-79 testing can typically be completed in 3 to 5 working days, depending on the lab’s capacity.
-LM-80 testing is a long-term process that runs for 6,000 to 10,000+ hours (i.e., 9–14 months), although interim reports may be available.

Can a product be tested for both LM-79 and LM-80?

Yes. If you manufacture or assemble LED products, LM-79 testing is conducted on the final product, while LM-80 testing is done on the LED package or module used inside. Both tests together provide a complete view of performance and reliability.

Where can I get LM-79 and LM-80 testing done in India?

You can get both LM-79 and LM-80 testing through NABL-accredited and BIS-recognized laboratories. Absolute Veritas works with certified labs across India to provide reliable and compliant testing for your LED products.

LM 79 and LM 80