Flat LED light fixture with RGBWW chips, 2.700K–10.000K color temperature and 95–98 CRI. Delivers soft light with minimal heat, controlled via DMX or mobile app.
Technical Details
Modern LED Panels use RGBWW chips (Red-Green-Blue-Warm/Cool White) with a color temperature range of 2,700K to 10,000K and a CRI (Color Rendering Index) of 95-98. The beam characteristic is typically 120° with a luminance of 1,000 to 15,000 Lux at a distance of one meter. Bi-Color Panels operate with 3,200K/5,600K LEDs, while RGB Panels cover the complete color spectrum. The fixtures are controlled via DMX512, WiFi, or proprietary apps and achieve a lifespan of 50,000 operating hours.
History & Development
The first LED Panels entered the market in 2010 with the Litepanels Astra, after LEDs had achieved sufficient brightness and color quality. In 2013, ARRI revolutionized the market with the SkyPanel S60 through RGB mixing and software control. Since 2018, flexible OLED Panels and ultra-thin designs from manufacturers like Quasar Science or Aputure have dominated the high-end sector.
Practical Application in Film
Roger Deakins used ARRI SkyPanels for the neon light atmosphere in "Blade Runner 2049" (2017). For "The Batman" (2022), Greig Fraser utilized hundreds of LED Panels for controlled daylight simulation in studio sets. Panels serve as bouncers, eye lights, or hidden lights within props. The workflow typically includes pre-programming lighting scenarios via DMX console and real-time adjustments during shooting. Advantages: no heat generation, instant on/off, precise color control. Disadvantages: limited brightness for exterior shots, higher initial cost than tungsten lighting.
Comparison & Alternatives
LED Panels differ from LED Fresnel lights by their soft light characteristic without focusing. Compared to Kinoflo tubes, they offer variable color temperature and a more compact design. OLED Panels enable even thinner designs and better color reproduction, while plasma displays are used for special effects. For large-area illumination, panel arrays are increasingly replacing classic tungsten softboxes; for spot lighting, Fresnel spotlights remain the first choice.