I tried one of these in my veg tent not too long ago:
... had ZERO lumen output and slowed growth to a crawl. Granted there weren't many options when I tried this and the spectrum's a bit off as well. Regardless, I'm glad Robin's pushing the envelope and I do think anything led tech warrants exploring further.
If Robin ever wants to sell those proto fixtures, I'd sure as hell buy them!
These diodes are called Mid power diodes. They use to be expensive and not as efficient. That is why cob took over the high power LED scene.
Things are changing now. Mid power is efficient, cost effective, the heat is more spread out.
Just like we have Junk cobs and quality Cree/Citizen/Bridgelux cobs
Similarly there are junk mid power LED and quality Lumiled/Samsung Mid power LED.
I think Mid power is going to take over. re-flow soldering of MID power is a challenge that we have already resolved with DIY QB304 boards.
The only thing holding back is the optics complication with mid power, which is not critical for every grow space situation.
Limited optics are available but not as easy to install. Steve and I are working hard and will resolve this challenge soon.
@Stephenj37826 is doing custom builds with these boards using 1/8" flat plates and they holding up almost as good as heatsink USA.
IM or email for details. Anodized DIY predrilled heatsinks are on order and will be available soon for $15 or under in 2 weeks