Frequently Asked Questions
Following is a list of frequently asked questions with answers linked below.
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What is the products rated life (how many hours will it operate)?
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Isn't it just like a CRT (cathode ray tube) used in older style televisions and computer monitors?
Vu1 Snapshot
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Company has been developing proprietary Electron Stimulated Luminescence™ ESL™ technology for 5 years.
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Company has a working Technology Demo that demonstrates the energy efficiency, dimmability and light quality of the bulb.
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Company-owned manufacturing plant in EU is planning to begin manufacturing by the end 2010.
What is the products rated life (how many hours will it operate)?
Vu1 bulbs are targeting to last 6,000 hours - about the same as many CFLs.
What is the light color?
Light color is measured a number of ways. On the Color Rendering Index (CRI), we are measuring 95+. We will be conducting consumer research to determine the most popular color. The ESL™ bulb can be manufactured to match essentially any color that consumer demand dictates. If the warm, yellowish glow of the incandescent bulb is desired by our consumers then we will produce ESL™ bulbs that provide that color.
What kind of dimming is available?
Full-range dimmability. The native design of ESL™ technology allows bulbs to be infinitely dimmed. This means that a bulb can be smoothly dimmed across the entire range from high (fully on) to low (almost off). Additionally, when turned on, the bulbs return instantly to the dimming state they were in when turned off.
How energy efficient is the Vu1 bulb?
Compared to standard incandescent lighting the Vu1 bulb will generate the same light output but use about approximately 65-70% less energy.
Is it instant-on (no warm-up time)?
Yes. Vu1 bulbs come on instantly. They do not have a warm up time to reach their full brightness.
Does the product contain any toxic materials?
There are no toxic materials in a Vu1 bulb. While we encourage recycling of all consumer products where practical, the Vu1 bulb is household waste disposable - it can go in your "trash can" and will not impact your local landfill.
What will be the Power Factor of the Vu1 bulb?
The Vu1 bulb will have a favorable High Power Factor – greater than 0.93.
Power Factor of an AC electric power system is defined as the ratio of the real power to the apparent power, and is a number between 0 and 1 (or Unity). Low Power Factor loads increase losses in a power distribution system and result in increased energy costs. The Power Factor for an incandescent bulb is 1, but for CFLs is only 0.52. Although residential CFL users will only be charged for the power used by the CFL, the power company must deliver more power to the grid -- using more fuel and creating more environmental damage -- to supply those CFLs. And at some point, someone has to pay for that lost power...
What will be the cost of the Vu1 bulb?
The Vu1 bulb will be premium-priced at a price comparable to dimmable CFL Reflector bulbs. The Vu1 bulb will provide incandescent light quality (better than CFL's), full dimmability, instant on, be offered in a familiar shape and not contain any trace mercury or other toxic materials.
What shapes will be available?
We are launching with Reflector shaped bulbs. These are the bulbs that are used in recessed can lighting. Reflector bulbs are used for spot and flood lighting. In homes these are most often in kitchens, bathrooms, dining and family areas.
When will I be able to purchase a Vu1 bulb?
Initially, there will be limited distribution as we undertake consumer market testing. Details about region and retailers carrying the products are not yet available. Discussion with various distribution partners are underway.
Isn't it just like a CRT (cathode ray tube) used in older style televisions and computer monitors?
ESL uniquely applies much of the science that has been proven over a long period of time in TV and CRT technology. However, ESL has made groundbreaking improvements in uniform electron distribution, energy efficiency, phosphor performance and manufacturing costs. More simply, CRT and TV technology is based on delivering an electron “beam” and then turning pixels on and off very quickly. ESL technology is based on uniformly delivering a “spray” of electrons that illuminate a large surface very energy efficiently over a long lifetime.
How can I learn more about Vu1 technology and products?
We provide Email Updates containing key announcements that include content about our technology and products. Be the first to hear about progress and events as we move toward commercialization by subscribing to receive our Email Updates.
Where can I see the patents?
Patents are pending and not in the public domain.
Does a prototype exist to demonstrate the technology?
Yes. We have completed a Technology Demo. We will be announcing a Product Demo that will show a working Vu1 Bulb able to operate in a regular US household lighting socket.
