There are many ways to provide lighting to an area. Whereas lighting options were originally limited to fire and then assorted torches, candles and lamps, technological advancements with electricity sparked a flurry of lighting advancements in the 19th century. Today, some of the most efficient means of providing lighting are tube lights.
Fluorescent Tubes
The production technology for today’s fluorescent tube lights was first developed in the early 20th century. Electricity is used to excite mercury vapor, which in turn causes the phosphor inside the tube to fluoresce and produce light that’s visible to the human eye. Fluorescent lights are often found in commercial settings and other areas where bright lighting is needed for long periods of time, because they are more energy efficient and last longer than incandescent bulbs.
Light Emitting Diode (LED) Tube Lights
Light emitting diode (LED) tube lights are a third type of tube lighting. LEDs produce light when their diode is switched on. This causes the electrons in the diode to release photons and produce electroluminescence. The color of light produced by the LED depends on the photon’s energy. These ultra-efficient, long-lasting lights have been used in a variety of applications, including both rigid and flexible tube lights.
Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL)
Compact fluorescent (CFL) tube lights continue to gain in popularity in both commercial and residential settings. Similar in nature to fluorescent tubes, CFLs produce light via the excitement of mercury vapor which causes phosphors to fluoresce and produce visible light. Instead of using an electromagnetic ballast, CFLs use a built-in electric ballast and can be used in sockets originally designed for incandescent bulbs.

