A multifaceted reflector (typically abbreviated MR) mild bulb is a reflector housing format for halogen in addition to some LED and fluorescent lamps. MR lamps were originally designed for use in slide projectors, but see use in residential lighting and retail lighting as properly. They're suited to functions that require directional lighting corresponding to monitor lighting, recessed ceiling lights, desk lamps, pendant fixtures, landscape lighting, retail show lighting, EcoLight and bicycle headlights. MR lamps are designated by symbols reminiscent of MR16 the place the diameter is represented by numerals indicating items of eighths of an inch. Common sizes for common lighting are MR11 (11⁄8 inches, 35 mm) and MR16 (16⁄8 inches, 51 mm), EcoLight outdoor with MR8 (8⁄8 inch, 25 mm) and EcoLight dimmable MR20 (20⁄8 inches, sixty four mm) utilized in specialty applications. Many run on low voltage relatively than mains voltage alternating present so require a energy supply. 3,314,331 for a miniature reflector lamp in 1967. The innovation was utilizing the lamp rim, reasonably than the bottom, because the reference aircraft for focusing.

This allowed extra flexible electrical mounting arrangements and extra exact focusing. Most MR lamps encompass a halogen capsule (or, EcoLight dimmable bulb) built-in with a pressed glass reflector with a base conforming to bi-pin GU5.3 customary. The reflector controls the direction and spread of mild cast from the lamp. Some lamps use an aluminum coating as a reflector. Others use selective dichroic coating that displays visible light and allows infrared radiation to go through. This kind reduces heating of illuminated objects since much less infrared radiation is present in the sunshine beam. Nevertheless, dichroic lamps should only be utilized in compatible fixtures that can dissipate the heat. Dichroic lamps must not be fitted to recessed or EcoLight enclosed luminaires with the IEC 60598 No Cool Beam symbol. The brightness of MR lamps could be adjusted when used with applicable light fixtures and dimmers. Nonetheless, the shade temperature changes significantly when the lamp is dimmed, shifting dramatically to the warmer end of the spectrum.

Like all halogen lamps, MR lamps produce significant heat and care must be taken to avoid contact with pores and EcoLight skin or proximity to flammable supplies when the lamp is on or has been on recently. Halogen lamps (18 lm/W typical) are more vitality efficient than regular incandescent lamps (15 lm/W typical) but still fall far behind different extra-recent sorts comparable to fluorescent lamps (80-100 lm/W), gas discharge lamps (100-200 lm/W depending on varieties), and LEDs (125-a hundred and fifty lm/W typical in shiny white depending on style). With each kinds of incandescent bulbs, helpful life might be considerably shortened if their filaments experience mechanical shock or EcoLight lighting vibration. Using an electronic transformer with a tender begin feature can considerably extend life, as it reduces the characteristically high inrush current that happens initially when the lamp is cold. Dimming also extends life considerably. MR lamps, like all quartz-halogen lamps, produce some undesirable ultraviolet mild. Usually, this should be filtered out.

Additionally, the quartz capsules of the lamps could rupture or explode upon failure of the lamps. For these two reasons, some MR lamps embody a cowl glass that serves as an integrated ultraviolet filter and explosion shield. MR16 lamps lacking this cover require the use of a fixture that incorporates an exterior piece of glass specifically designed to supply each ultraviolet and physical safety. MR lamps are available in 10-75 watt energy rankings (150-800 lumens). MR lamps most frequently operate at 12 volts, though they're also available in other voltages. These lamps use a bi-pin connector for energy: 12-volt MR11 bulbs often use a GU4 base, EcoLight dimmable and 12-volt MR16 bulbs often use a GU5.Three base. The common 12-volt MR16 lamps, EcoLight dimmable subsequently, require a ferromagnetic or electronic transformer-typically misnamed as a ballast-to convert the 120- or 230-volt mains voltage to the extra-low voltage required by the lamp. Sure MR lamps can function straight on the mains voltage. These lamps usually use a GU10 flip-and-lock base, EcoLight dimmable so they cannot be accidentally interchanged with low-voltage lamps.

GU10 is distinguished from the lower-voltage MR lamps by the U-formed ceramic base mount with a 10 mm (pin center-to-center distance) 2-pin bayonet mount. MR16 lamps with an integrated transformer are also available. These lamps have screw bases to fit standard medium-base Edison sockets. MR lamps are commonly out there in range of shade temperatures, from about 2700 Ok to 7000 K, to satisfy varied applications. Retrofit lamps that generate mild by a different principle but makes use of the MR form-issue are available. For instance, LED-primarily based MR16 lamps seem similar to halogen lamps and can be used in most fixtures designed for MR lamps. The identical is true of MR11-compatible LED lamps. Fixtures designed for halogen MR16 or MR11 lamps that use digital transformers may should be retrofitted with LED-compatible transformers. There is a wide number of designs, EcoLight dimmable various considerably with regard to beam width, light colour, effectivity and luminous energy.