What kind of battery do I need for my LED motorcycle lights?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around selecting an appropriate battery for LED motorcycle lights, specifically focusing on the power requirements and options for powering the LEDs. The scope includes practical application and technical specifications related to LED voltage and current ratings.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the type of battery needed for 20 pre-wired LEDs, seeking advice on power sources.
  • Another participant notes that the LEDs have an input voltage range of 9 to 14 volts, prompting a discussion on whether to use the motorcycle's existing battery or a separate power source.
  • A participant expresses a preference for a separate power source due to available space on the motorcycle.
  • Questions arise regarding the power/current/voltage ratings of the LEDs, emphasizing the need for this information to determine an appropriate power source.
  • One participant mentions that the LEDs are rated for 12V DC with a forward voltage of 3.2 to 3.8 volts, indicating uncertainty about the implications of this specification.
  • Another participant suggests that the motor battery should suffice, explaining that the forward voltage indicates a possible configuration of the LEDs in series.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the voltage requirements of the LEDs, but there is no consensus on the best power source, as some prefer using the motorcycle's battery while others suggest a separate battery.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the specific power consumption of the LEDs and how this might affect battery choice and longevity. Additionally, the implications of the forward voltage rating are not fully clarified.

Who May Find This Useful

Motorcycle enthusiasts, hobbyists interested in LED modifications, and individuals seeking advice on electrical components for vehicles may find this discussion relevant.

DJpantera
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first of all HELLO evry1,i am new here!
I have a motorcycle and I want to do something special to it so I decided on putting some LEDs on.
I buyed 20 pre-wired LEDs (http://cgi.ebay.com/20x-Blue-LED-Lamp-Light-Set-25cm-Pre-Wired-5mm-12V-DC_W0QQitemZ150140711458QQihZ005QQcategoryZ66948QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)
The only problem now is the power,can someone tell me what kind of battery(ies) I need?
THANKS!
 
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According to the specs, the LEDs have an input voltage of 9 to 14 volts.

This leads to many possibilities. Do you want to tap the power from your motor's battery, or provide a separate power source?
 
I want a separate source because I have enough room
 
Well, firstly, is there any power/current/voltage rating of the LEDs that you have bought? You need to know that before you can provide a power source.

the consumption of LEDs are generally very low, so battery replacement would not be very often. (If you're wondering about power consumption too)
 
Thank you very much for the information Tw15t3r !
The 20 LEDs are 12V DC with Forward Voltage (V) 3.2 ~ 3.8 (I don`t really know what that means :redface:)
I think that the motor battery will do the job
 
Hmm, yes, it should work. Guess ur problem is solved then.

For the record, 3.2-3.8V forward, would mean that, connected the right way (LEDs connected the wrong way won't light, and if too high a voltage the wrong way... boom.) it can tolerate 3.2-3.8V. So I'm probably guessing about 4 LEDs are in series with each other, so since each can take 3.2-3.8V, total, ends up with around 9-14V. Hope it helps.
 
Thank you very much for all!
 

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