LAMPS
RESOURCES
LAMPS & LIGHTING – A GLOSSARY OF TERMS:
D – Lamps & Lighting Dictionary:
Dichroic to Dimmer and much more
Damp Location
UL listing for fixtures used in a moist unexposed area, such as a bathroom or porch area.
Deck Lights
Deck lights typically mount to the outside of a home or to the railing of a wooden deck. Since they are located near where people sit, good shielding and proper mounting height are important to reduce glare.
Decorative Bulbs (D)
General service bulbs available in a variety of wattages and shapes. Decorative bulbs include flame, teardrop and candelabra shapes, among many others.
Decorative Fixtures
Decorative fixtures help establish the tone and style of a room. Decorative fixtures are meant to be seen, which means their brightness should be kept low enough to avoid glare.
Dichroic Coating
Film that reflects visible light and transmits infrared light. Reflector lamps with dichroic coatings, such as most MR16s provide a cooler beam because most of the heat goes out the back. Dichroic PAR lamps are often called “cool beam.”
Die Casting
Casting in a reusable mould (the die). Die-casting are generally precisely manufactured parts requiring a high initial investment in the die.
Diffuser
Light control device that spreads light by scattering it. Opal glass and plastic, etched glass, fabric and paper shades act as diffusers.
Dimmer
Control that varies the output of the light source by reducing the voltage or current to the lamp.
Direct Lighting
Lighting that casts all, or at least 90%, of its light downward. The term can also refer to the distribution of light or the fixtures that produce this type of lighting. With intense beams, direct lighting is very dramatic, rendering forms and textures well. Typical fixtures include recessed lights, track lights, some pendant lights and task lights.
Direct-Indirect Lighting
Light comes from up and down. This light is well balanced and pleasing. Light that is predominately direct is also called “semi-direct.” Typical fixtures include most pendant lights, wall brackets and wall valances. Uses include task/ambient lighting over tables and in hallways.
Downlights
Downlights usually refer to recessed downlights. However, some designers use the term to describe any fixture aiming straight down.
Direct Mounted
Direct-mounted fixtures are typically bowls that are fastened to a ceiling holder. Most use diffusers of glass or acrylic. Bevelled glass is also popular. These fixtures work best for low to moderate light levels.
Dual Mounting System
On ceiling fan units. This system enables you to mount a fan on a down-rod or flush to the ceiling.
