1) IP Rating (Ingress Protection)

What is it?

This rating measures the degree of dust/water resistance; formats such as IP44, IP54, and IP65.

        First digit (0–6): Protection against solid particles/dust (6 represents dust-tight seal).

        Second digit (0–9k): Water resistance (4 represents splashing water from all directions; 5 represents low-pressure jets; 6    represents high-pressure jets; 7/8 represent short-term or long-term immersion).

How to Choose

For patio/patio lights, path/lawn lights: IP44 is sufficient to withstand rain, mist, and four-way splashing water.

        For scenarios requiring stronger protection (such as high-pressure water jet cleaning or at seaside docks): Consider IP54/65 or higher.

2) Salt Spray and Corrosion Resistance

What is it?

This is an accelerated corrosion test that simulates a sea breeze/salt environment. Common standards include ASTM B117 and ISO 9227 (NSS Neutral Salt Spray). Consider the test duration and any degradation in appearance or functionality. This metric is essential for projects near the sea, in ports, or in coastal cities.

How to Choose

Stainless steel or painted aluminum alloy housing + qualified salt spray hours (96/240/480 hours, depending on your warranty).

3) Optical Parameters: Lumens, Color Temperature, CRI, and Light Distribution

        Lumens (lm): Total luminous flux, determining brightness. 800 lm is sufficient for reading; however, professional or industrial lighting may require 2000 lm or more.

        Color Temperature (CCT): The color of light. Warmer colors between 2200–3000K are more comfortable and eco-friendly, while cooler colors above 4000K provide greater clarity. DarkSky recommends low-color-temperature, directional, and controllable outdoor lighting to reduce light pollution. Most Yaado products utilize warm light, which is environmentally friendly and comfortable.

        Color Rendering Index (CRI): A measure of how accurately a light renders the true color of an object. A higher value indicates more accurate color reproduction. A value of Ra ≥ 80 is sufficient for most outdoor living scenarios.

        Light Distribution/Anti-Glare: Ensures comfortable lighting. Choose solutions with anti-glare diffusers, honeycombs, or light-cutting to create an atmosphere and enhance comfort.

4) Sensors and "Dark Sky Friendliness"

Dusk-to-dawn/PIR motion sensing: Lights only when needed, reducing energy consumption and light pollution, significantly increasing "value per kilowatt-hour." It's best to choose products that adhere to the five principles of DarkSky: only when needed, only where needed, at appropriate brightness, using warm colors, and minimizing direct overhead light. Yaado's path lights and wall lights feature dusk and motion sensing, achieving intelligent energy savings and comfortable lighting.

5) Operating Environment and Structural Reliability

        Operating Temperature: Determine the minimum and maximum operating temperatures (e.g., -20°C to +45°C) and perform low-temperature lighting and high-temperature aging.

        Surface Treatment: Anodizing, powder coating, fluorocarbon paint, etc., should be selected based on salt spray hours.

6) THDi (Total Harmonic Distortion of Current)

Imagine AC power as a river. Harmonics are like rocks suddenly appearing in the river, causing the flow to become unstable and swirling. This "river" will then damage the "land" (equipment). The THDi value is like an index that assesses the smoothness of the river's course; the lower the value, the better. Recommendations:

The lower the index, the better: For home lighting, a THDi of less than 20% is considered a good level.

7) Solar Energy Selection Guide: The Key to Moving from "Bright" to "Effective"

7.1 Photovoltaic Panels

        Monocrystalline silicon: High efficiency and stable performance; offers enhanced power generation in limited areas. Long-term studies (such as NREL data) show that crystalline silicon has the highest efficiency and continues to improve, making it suitable for outdoor portable lights or small rooftops. Our products utilize monocrystalline silicon solar panels to enhance stable power generation.

        Polycrystalline silicon: Relatively low cost and simpler to manufacture, with slightly lower efficiency than monocrystalline silicon, making it suitable for large-scale or budget-sensitive projects. While slightly more sensitive to temperature fluctuations, it generally offers good durability.

Surface Materials:

        ETFE (Fluorocarbon Film): Weather-resistant, UV-resistant, and anti-yellowing, suitable for flexible or high-end panels.

        PET: Affordable and lightweight, suitable for budget-friendly or short-term projects, while also offering stable performance in most typical outdoor environments.

7.2 Batteries and Battery Life

Common Lithium Battery Types for Outdoor Lighting:

        LiFePO₄ (Lithium Iron Phosphate): Safe and reliable, with a long cycle life and high and low temperature resistance, suitable for durable lighting.

        NMC (Ternary Lithium): High energy density, compact size, and long battery life, suitable for portable lighting; overall performance surpasses LiFePO₄.

        LCO / LiMn₂O₄: Lightweight or low cost, with average cycle life, mostly used in low-power or economical products.

        Advantages of Ternary Lithium: Lightweight, long battery life, and balanced performance, suitable for most outdoor lighting applications.

Simplified selection formula:

Required power generation ≥ (average daily power consumption × number of consecutive rainy days) / solar efficiency

List of Required Purchasing Parameters