Powering Our LED Project: Series or Parallel?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the best method to power a project involving 10 by 5 LEDs, specifically whether to connect them in series or parallel. Participants explore various aspects of power sources, current, and voltage requirements for the LEDs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions uncertainty about the best way to power the LEDs and whether to use series or parallel connections.
  • Another participant requests specific details about the power source, desired current for each LED, and the forward voltage drop, suggesting a configuration of 10 parallel circuits with 5 LEDs each and a resistor in series.
  • A participant notes that the voltage for the LEDs should be between 1.8 to 2 volts but is unsure about the current.
  • One participant expresses concern over the lack of information regarding the power source's voltage and current characteristics, suggesting that this information is crucial for making a decision.
  • Another participant suggests using a 12V power source with 10 parallel strings of 5 LEDs, recommending that each string have its own current limiting device.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not seem to agree on the specifics of the power source or the optimal configuration for the LEDs. Multiple competing views and uncertainties remain regarding the current and voltage requirements.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not established the characteristics of their power source, which affects their ability to make informed decisions about the LED configuration. There are unresolved questions about the current desired for the LEDs and the appropriate method for current limiting.

noagname
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My brother and I have a project where we light up 10 by 5 leds but we aren't sure how to power it the best, and if we should put in series or parallel.
 
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What is your power source (e.g., 12 volt battery with 14.4 volts when charging)? What current do you want in each LED? What is the forward voltage drop in each LED? I think you want 10 parallel circuits with 5 LEDs plus a resistor in series. Resistor to be rated at about 3 volts, 30 milliamps (100 ohm 1/2 watt), but need to know above info first.
 
not sure about the current for the leds, but the voltage should be 1.8 to 2 volts. For my power source, I'm not to sure but the way to power the leds seems good.
 
You don't know the voltage and current characteristics of your power source? I suggest you begin by finding that information.

- Warren
 
I don't know what my power source is, I still need to find one.
 
Sounds like you don't yet have enough information to begin answering this question.

- Warren
 
If you are looking for suggestions for a power source I would suggest a 12V source with 10 parallel strings of 5 LEDs. Give each string its own current limiting device. Just figure out how much current you want to run through the LEDs to determine the best way to current limit.
 

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