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C - Glossary of lighting terms |
| Glossary Index | A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X Y Z |
CableMultiple wires arranged in a common covering of insulating plastic or other materials, used as an electrical conductor. Cased GlassGlass consisting of a layer of clear glass fused to a layer of opal or other tinted glass. Cased glass transmits light more efficiently than opal, with more luster and better diffusion. Cased glass can be blown or molded. Candlea (cd)The unit of measurement of luminous intensity of a light source in a given direction. CandlepowerLuminous intensity of a particular light source expressed in candlea. Candlestick LampA fixture that has a tall, slim column, taken after traditional candlestick lighting. Also known as a console lamp. CanopyFixture part that covers an outlet box. CansAnother term for recessed downlights. CastingPouring or forcing metal or glass into a prepared mold or any part manufactured in this manner. Ceiling FixturesProvide general lighting. They are practical in busy areas such as foyers, hallways, bedrooms, kitchens, baths, laundry rooms and dens. They are available with incandescent, fluorescent and energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs. Ceiling FansCeiling fans consist of (from top to bottom) a canopy with hanger ball, a down rod, the motor, blades, and light kit. Chain PliersTool with jaws that open as you squeeze the handles together. Used to pry open links of chain to change the suspension height of a chandelier or other fixture. ChandeliersGeneral lighting fixtures that can provide sparkle and style to rooms and entryways. They are also used in bedrooms, foyers, over a living room furniture grouping, or over a piano. Some are designed with downlights or use shades to provide task lighting for homework, reading or cooking. Chandeliers are available in both incandescent and tungsten-halogen models. The addition of a dimmer control allows you to alter the intensity of the light to suit your mood or time of day. ChannelIn dimming controls, a group of fixtures that are operated together, generally of the same type or for the same function. ChimneyA blown glass tube of various shapes placed around flame to protect it against wind. In today’s usage, it is for ornamentation and light diffusion. ChromeChrome takes a high, lustrous finish. A softly brushed chrome finish simulates stainless steel, but without the durability and depth. CircuitWiring path for electricity, including conductors, load and circuit protection. Circuit BreakerResettable safety device to prevent current flow or prevent excess current flow. ClipPiece that is used to clip a shade onto a light bulb. Colonial StyleReminiscent of pre-revolutionary America, this style emphasizes clean, simple lines, though it may also refer to a more ornate style which relies on curving lines and scroll work. Color TemperatureThe appearance of white light in terms of warmth or coolness. Compact DownlightSmall recessed incandescent fixtures generally five inches deep. Compact FluorescentA small fluorescent lamp that is often used as an alternative to incandescent lighting. The lamp life is about ten times longer than incandescent lamps and is 3 to 4 times brighter. Also referred to as PLI DL, CFL or BIAX lamps. Contemporary StyleLighting derived from the industrial styling of Modernism, blending function and form. Brushed metal surfaces, the use of plastic materials, sleek, streamlined forms, and geometrically shaped glass shades and bowls predominate. CopperA soft, pure metal, usually used for accent detailing. It oxidizes to a distinctive green color when exposed to the air. Cove LightingLight built into a cove, a shelf or ledge at the upper part of a wall, to illuminate the ceiling. Typically fluorescent, cold cathode or low voltage strip. Crystal GlassFine quality transparent glass. May be used in table lamps, chandeliers and floor lamps in a variety of styles and cuts. See also Lead Crystal. Cylinder DownlightsOutdoor fixture, which can be mounted to a wall or an overhang to aim light directly on paths and porches. |
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