Normally Open Switch for Strobe Light Synchronization

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of using a single normally open switch to control multiple strobe lights simultaneously, specifically to synchronize their flashing patterns. Participants explore the implications of wiring configurations and the potential risks involved in modifying the circuit.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Daniel describes the current setup of the strobe light and the intended modification to use one switch for three lights.
  • One participant encourages Daniel to proceed with the modification, suggesting a trial with two strobes first.
  • Another participant points out a potential issue with the switch's connection, indicating that it may only affect one strobe and not the others.
  • There is a suggestion to connect the switch in a manner similar to the battery connection for clarity.
  • Daniel expresses confidence in his wiring approach but acknowledges the uncertainty and the need to test the configuration.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the wiring configuration's effectiveness. Some support the idea, while others raise concerns about the connections and potential issues.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of understanding the specific wiring and functionality of the strobe lights, indicating that more information about the strobe's design could clarify the situation.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in electronics, particularly those working with LED circuits and synchronization of lighting effects.

Berzerkfury02
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Hello,

I have a strobe light which is powered normally by two AAA batteries in series creating a 3 volt DC power supply. When the batteries are inserted, the circuit is closed with the exception of the switch. The strobe light is composed of five LED's which have six different ON modes because of different "chase" or flashing patterns. This switch is a normally open switch and the circuit is still open until the normally open push button switch is pushed for the first time. When pressed the completed circuit tells the IC to go to the first pattern. But pressing the button a second time tells the IC to go to the second pattern, etc. until the sixth pattern is reached. Upon reaching the sixth pattern, pushing the button one more time will tell the IC to go to the OFF position (no more flashing).

I was wondering if three strobes in parallel configuration could all use the same normally open switch in order to close the circuit for all three IC's at the same time.
I am attaching a schematic to simulate both the standard configuration (already works as it is the stock configuration found on the store shelves) and the configuration I wish to use.

I wanted to eliminate the three normally open buttons and use only one normally open push button switch to tell each of the Three IC's in each strobe light the same function at the same time (for synchronization purposes, I wanted the three strobe lights to flash the same pattern at the same exact time). I was thinking that since each switch is performing the same function (indicating to the IC that a circuit has been closed) I could eliminate the three switches and use only one. I was afraid, however, that I may be completing a circuit that was not meant to be completed by connecting the ends of the IC like this and possibly damage something, so I decided to check this with the forum here first before I tried it. Please view the schematic I had attached as it can probably explain what I am trying to do better than this text does. Would the configuration I illustrated work?

Thank You,
Daniel
 

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I say go for it. It looks like what you've shown will work. Maybe you could just try two at first.

Regards
 
It looks to me like your switch is only connected to the middle strobe. The other 2 appear to connected together but it is not clear how the they will be effected by the switch. I would recommend that you connect the switch in the same manner you connected the battery.
 
Hard to say without knowing more about the strobe.
 
Well it looks like I may just have to try it,
I'm pretty sure I connected the switch the same way I had the batteries, and it looks like it's worth a try. I forgot to explain that the wires were color coded and wires of the same color are all part of the same wire. I am planning on placing both the switch and the battery in a parallel configuration for each of their own purposes so I think it would work. If it somehow does not work, I guess I will just have to live with three switches rather than just the single one I had hoped for.

As soon as I get all the supplies I need (I still need solder and proper wires), I will let everyone know how it turns out. It may be a matter of weeks until I will be able to complete this project since I will be out on vacation, but I promise to let everyone know how it turns out. I would like to thank everyone for helping me out with these problems.

Daniel
 
Last edited:

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