Technical Comparison: Center Basket vs. Flat Panel Troffers
Choosing the right troffer depends on the aesthetic and the light distribution required for your ceiling height. While both fit into standard T-grids, their optical engineering differs significantly to meet specific environmental needs.
Center Basket (Volumetric) Troffers
Center basket troffers are characterized by a perforated or solid basket that houses the LEDs in the center of the fixture.
- Volumetric Distribution: The light reflects off the interior housing before exiting, creating a softer, more rounded distribution that fills the room more effectively.
- Reduced Glare: Because the light source is indirect, these are the preferred choice for workstations and classrooms to eliminate harsh reflections on computer screens.
- Depth and Dimension: These offer a more architectural look that adds visual depth to a flat drop ceiling.
Low-Profile Recessed Troffers
For facilities with restricted plenum space or those looking for a clean, minimalist look, low-profile troffers provide high-intensity output in a slim housing.
- Maximized Headroom: Ideal for older buildings with shallow ceilings where a deep fixture might interfere with HVAC ductwork or plumbing.
- High-Transmission Optics: These utilize specialized lenses to maximize lumen-per-watt efficiency, ensuring high light levels at the floor with minimal energy draw.
Installation & Operational Advantages
Field-Selectable Versatility
To eliminate the risk of ordering the wrong color temperature, we prioritize fixtures with On-Board Selectable Switches. This allows the installer to toggle between 3500K (Warm/Neutral), 4000K (Cool White), and 5000K (Daylight) after the fixture is already wired. This flexibility is essential for multi-use facilities where different rooms require different light moods.
Integrated Controls and Emergency Backup
To help your facility stay compliant with safety and energy codes, our troffers are available with pre-installed Emergency Battery Backups (EM). In the event of a power failure, these units provide the required 90 minutes of illumination for safe egress. Additionally, integrated 0-10V dimming allows for seamless connection to occupancy sensors and daylight harvesting systems.
