Circuit Board indicator
Introduction to Circuit Board Indicator (CBI LED): A Complete Guide for OEMs & Engineers
A circuit board indicator, commonly known as a CBI LED, is a specialized LED component designed to provide clear visual indication directly on printed circuit boards (PCBs). Unlike standard discrete LEDs, CBI LEDs offer pre-aligned, pre-mounted, and precision-housing solutions, enabling easy installation, consistent light output, and superior mechanical durability. As demand for compact, long-life signal indicators continues to rise, the CBI LED has become a vital component in modern electronics.
What Is a CBI LED?
A CBI (Circuit Board Indicator) LED is a panel-mount or board-mount light indicator built into an engineered plastic housing. The housing aligns the LED’s optical position and lead spacing, making it ideal for applications where multiple LEDs must appear uniform, such as front-panel indicators, status signals, and multi-level displays.
The CBI LED category includes various lens shapes, LED sizes, color configurations, and multi-level assemblies.
Small Categories of Circuit Board Indicator (CBI LED)
CBI LEDs come in many structural and optical formats. Some of the most common sub-categories include:
1. By LED Diameter
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1.8mm CBI LED (single / bi-level / tri-level / quad-level)
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3mm CBI LED (single-level, multi-level, cylindrical)
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5mm CBI LED (single-level, multi-color, RGB options)
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10mm CBI LEDs for high-visibility or long-distance viewing
2. By LED Color Type
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Single-color (Red, Green, Yellow, Blue, White)
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Bi-color (2-lead or 3-lead)
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Tri-color / RGB
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Red-Green, Red-Yellow, etc.
3. By Optical Shape
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Round lens
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Cylindrical lens
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Inverted cone lens
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Flat-top lens
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Diffused or water-clear types
4. By Display Configuration
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Single-level indicator
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Bi-level CBI (two LEDs vertically aligned)
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Tri-level CBI
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Quad-level CBI
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Horizontal or vertical PCB mount
These variations help manufacturers select the exact indicator style needed for perfect alignment on instrument panels or PCBs.
Key Features of Circuit Board Indicator (CBI LED)
CBI LEDs are engineered for precision, durability, and uniformity. Their strongest features include:
✔ Pre-trimmed, PCB-ready leads
Ensures fast assembly and consistent soldering positions.
✔ High contrast & enhanced optical alignment
Many housings use black nylon to increase contrast and improve indicator visibility.
✔ UL 94V-0 flame-retardant housing
Most CBI LEDs are built with reliable Type 66 nylon or equivalent materials.
✔ Long operational lifetime
High reliability, often measured in 50,000–100,000+ hours, depending on the LED chip.
✔ Halogen-free and RoHS compliant
Meets global safety and environmental standards.
✔ Stable mechanical alignment
Housing prevents LEDs from tilting or shifting during soldering or vibration.
✔ Multi-level stacking options
Perfect for dense control panels and multi-indicator instrument clusters.
Applications of Circuit Board Indicator (CBI LED)
CBI LEDs are widely used in industries that require stable, long-life signal indicators. Common application markets include:
1. Consumer Electronics
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Power indicators
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Mode selection lights
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Remote receivers
2. Industrial Equipment
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Control panels
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Automation systems
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Machine status indicators
3. Telecommunications
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Network interface cards
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Base station indicators
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Signal monitoring modules
4. Medical Devices
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Diagnostic equipment
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Control consoles
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Monitoring devices
5. Security & Safety Systems
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Alarm panels
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Access control indicators
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Fire detection equipment
6. Commercial & Architectural Equipment
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Signage
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Illumination accents
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Entertainment lighting clusters
In all these cases, CBI LEDs provide reliable status feedback, clear visibility, and long-term durability.
Benefits of Using CBI LEDs
✔ Faster PCB assembly & reduced labor cost
Pre-aligned housings eliminate manual LED positioning.
✔ Consistent and professional appearance
Perfect alignment across multi-indicator panels boosts overall product aesthetics and usability.
✔ High reliability under vibration or shock
The housing maintains LED stability in harsh environments.
✔ Customizable in color, brightness, and configuration
Manufacturers can tailor PC indicators to fit specific OEM requirements.
✔ Long service life & low maintenance
Reduces field failures and improves end-user satisfaction.
Why Circuit Board Indicators Are Essential in Modern Electronics
As electronics move toward miniaturization, high reliability, and better human–machine interaction, the role of the CBI LED becomes increasingly important. From compact medical instruments to outdoor telecom systems, these indicators provide precise, uniform, and dependable visual feedback, improving product performance and user interface quality.
Whether you require 1.8mm single-level indicators, 5mm RGB tri-color CBIs, or multi-level custom assemblies, the Circuit Board Indicator offers a versatile, cost-efficient solution for modern designs.
Product Pic | Part No
| product Name | Dimension | Category | Sub-Category | Datasheet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
7.9 × 9.15 × 11 mm |
Discrete LEDs |
Through hole LED lamp |
