HIR technology is patented and proven. While a standard halogen bulb emits a broad spectrum of light (including infrared light), HIR bulbs use a special reflective coating to selectively reflect and transmit the light it creates. The special coating takes the infrared light/energy and reflects it back onto the filament. This design reduces the amount of power needed to keep the filament hot thereby, increasing light output, life span and efficiency.

The upper bulb, which is similar in appearance to a Xenon capsule, is actually the first generation HIR bulb developed and patented by G.E. One of the problems with GE's design is that the bulb is long and fragile, and would often crack and cause premature bulb failure. Lamp selection is also limited due to the bulb's long length. The G.E. patent was eventually licensed to Toshiba, who redesigned and improved the HIR bulb design. The second generation Toshiba bulb is not only super reliable, but also lasts longer and emits more light.