Automotive light technology has many terminologies. And beam pattern is just one among the many. Find out more about headlight beam technology and how it affects the headlight’s functionality. 

If you have been browsing reviews and tips online on how to find a high-quality LED headlight, chances are you’ve come across several terminologies that you never knew before. One of the basic terms you will encounter is beam pattern.

What is Headlight Beam Pattern?

One of the elements you need to consider when buying a car headlight is beam pattern. It is perhaps the trickiest factor when purchasing headlights online. Of course, it is impossible to know the headlight’s beam pattern until it arrives at your door. It is why reading product reviews of potential options, such as this Hikari LED headlight review, is very helpful. It reduces your chances of purchasing an LED headlight with a poor beam pattern.

Every light source has a light pattern. For example, flashlights have two beam patterns known as throw and flood. In headlights, most automotive features a focused beam pattern is known as DOT. It is commonly used in North American vehicles. The pattern is apparent among projector-style headlights.

In a DOT pattern, the illumination has a focus and sharp cut-off.

This feature allows the headlight to produce less intense brightness. Hence, you can drive without blinding the oncoming drivers with this type of beam pattern. Therefore, there is minimal risk of road accidents.

Light Intensity and How it Affects Visibility

Upper cut-off in headlight illumination is a crucial factor in keeping drivers safe and in circumventing road accidents. However, one should take note that the amount of light in an output pattern is also vital.

A focused and small hot spot at the upper center of the beam pattern supports long-range visibility. It allows you to notice oncoming vehicles and objects. If the light intensity is higher around the middle, the light is thrown directly in the road creating blinding light projection. Likewise, it reduces long-distance vision, which is crucial in driving.

How to Upgrade? 

In a nutshell, a headlight’s beam pattern directly affects visibility and safety on the road. A good rule of thumb is to select a headlight with focused illumination and sharp cut-off since this type of beam pattern has a lesser risk of road accidents.

If you are planning to upgrade your headlight, do plenty of research before finalizing your decision. Consider the vital factors when buying headlights, such as the item’s level of brightness, beam pattern, type of reflector, and durability. And to make the right choices, always take into account the effects of factors on safe driving.

If you are going to buy headlights directly at a store, don’t hesitate to ask for a test-fit. Talk about your planned light upgrade and ask for assistance. In this manner, you can guarantee the right options and avoid spending money on poor headlights.

For online purchases, send your queries to the seller. You can also look for reviews from reliable online sources. Take note that it is trickier when buying online. Thus, avoid impulse purchases, you should take time to learn more about the item to find out whether it is a good investment.