Is a transformer producing 3v dc to much for a 1.5 L E D | |
Answers:
From: Big Ed
Yes, duh especially Red LED's use less voltage and amperage. read spec sheets, while slightly higher voltages and amp ratings can be used manufactured are somewhat conservative so I would RTFM.
From: Christopher
Actually, the interpretation Big Ed is a common misconception. LEDs are not rated on voltage. The 1.5 volts you see is called the forward voltage. This means that is how much voltage will not make it though. IE: if you put 3 volts through you LED, you get only 1.5 on the other side. What you need to do is use the remaining voltage to determine the resistor needed to get the correct amperage (as LEDs are not driven by volts, but rather by amps). theres a really good LED calculator at http://led.linear1.org/1led.wiz (search "led calculator" on google...). Source voltage would be your 3 volts, diode forward voltage is the 1.5 volts. Diode forward current depends on several things. As you seem to just want to turn it on, i would suggest a MAX of 20mA. going as far down as even 12 mA really doesnt change the output very much. I would suggest trying around 16mA, as the calculator will round down. If you go higher than 20mA, you run the risk of greatly decreasing your LEDs life. too high, and it will burn out the LED. =(
If you would like more help, please feel free to email me. slithytove2 at gmail dot com
happy lighting
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