Book excerpt: A thorough reference that sheds light on the promising field of solid-state lighting Solid-state lighting is a rapidly emerging field. Light Emitting Diodes are already used in traffic signals, signage/contour lighting, large area displays, and automotive applications. But its greatest future lies in the possibility of applying solid-state lamps to general lighting. Solid-state lighting promises to reduce energy consumption as much as fifty percent, cut down on carbon-dioxide emission, and even spur the development of a completely new lighting industry. Giving this important emerging field the attention it deserves, Introduction to Solid-State Lighting comprehensively covers: The history of lighting The characterization of visible light Conventional light sources LED basics Extraction of light from high-brightness LEDs White LED Applications of solid-state lamps