Luxeon Q : Slug is electrcally Neutral or Not ?

I was thinking the slug is electrically neutral.

but Lux-III Emitter Datasheet(DS45, 02/04) says "slug is not electrically neutral..."

Look at Page.2 Note 1. upper/right

Anyone who can advise this ? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif

Warren,

Follow the datasheet.

The Lux III and Lux V are NOT electrically neutral. You need to isolate them, either through the use of anodized parts or a thin layer of epoxy on the slug.

So if I break a lead, I can use the base?

No. The slug is not directly connected to any terminal, but is connected to each terminal through reverse-connected zener diodes that serve as ESD protection for the Luxeon. If you apply positive voltage to the slug, and negative to either connection lead, you will forward bias one of the zeners and probably dump a bunch of current through them, and also through the bond wire, and probably melt it and kill the luxeon.

If you've broken a lead, you still can solder to the other chopped-off lead. It can be done, it just needs some prep and a steady hand.

Thanks. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/ohgeez.gif Now, clear understood.

Warren

Thanks