Norman Lamps, Inc.

Bi-pin and specialty LED bulbs serve the niche applications where standard screw-base LEDs don't fit – think under-cabinet lighting with G4 or GY6.35 capsules, landscape fixtures with various bi-pin configurations, RV and marine lighting, and countless specialized fixtures that use non-standard base types. These compact LED replacements deliver the same dramatic energy savings and long life as other LEDs while fitting fixtures that were originally designed for halogen or xenon capsule bulbs.

The bi-pin designation refers to bulbs with two parallel pins that plug into corresponding sockets, creating secure mechanical connection and good electrical contact in compact form factors. Common bi-pin bases include G4 (4mm pin spacing), GY6.35 (6.35mm pin spacing), GU5.3 (5.3mm spacing, used in MR16 bulbs), and various other configurations. The pin spacing and diameter must match the socket exactly – even small differences prevent the bulb from fitting or making proper contact.

Voltage requirements are critical with bi-pin LEDs because many fixtures operate on low voltage (12V or 24V) requiring transformers, while others use line voltage (120V). A 12V LED installed in a 120V fixture will be destroyed instantly. A 120V LED in a 12V fixture simply won't light. Always verify the voltage requirement of your fixture before ordering replacement LEDs. Most fixtures have voltage information printed near the socket or on a label.

One important compatibility issue specific to LED replacements for halogen capsules: transformer compatibility. Many under-cabinet and landscape fixtures use electronic or magnetic transformers designed for halogen loads. Some of these transformers don't work properly with LED bulbs due to the much lower wattage draw – the transformer may not "see" enough load to turn on, or it may cause flickering. LED-compatible transformers or drivers resolve these issues but require replacing the transformer along with the bulbs.

Specialty LED configurations include festoon bulbs (tubular with contacts on each end) for automotive interior lighting and marine applications, wedge base bulbs for automotive applications and indicators, bayonet base LEDs for specialty equipment and older fixtures, and various proprietary base designs for specific manufacturers' fixtures. When replacing specialty bulbs with LEDs, matching the physical dimensions as well as the base type is important – some LED versions are bulkier than the halogens they replace and may not fit in tight fixture housings.

Color temperature choices in bi-pin and specialty LEDs typically include warm white (2700K-3000K) for comfortable ambient lighting in under-cabinet, RV, and marine applications, and cool white (4000K-5000K) for task lighting, landscape applications, and anywhere brighter, more energizing light is preferred. Color rendering quality (CRI) varies across products – look for CRI 80+ if color accuracy matters for your application.

The energy savings and longevity advantages make LED replacements attractive despite higher upfront costs. A 2-watt G4 LED replaces a 20-watt halogen capsule – ten times less energy consumption and dramatically less heat generation. In RV and marine applications where power is limited, this efficiency difference is transformative. The 25,000-50,000 hour lifespan means these bulbs can literally last decades in typical residential applications, eliminating the frequent replacements that halogen capsules require.

Common Base Types: G4, GY6.35, GU5.3, G8, G9, festoon, wedge, bayonet (BA15s, BA15d, BA9s), various specialty bases

Voltage Options: Low voltage (12V, 24V - require transformer), line voltage (120V - direct connection)

Applications: Under-cabinet lighting, landscape fixtures, RV and marine lighting, automotive interior lights, puck lights, decorative fixtures, specialty equipment