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LED Claus came early this year

Discussion in 'General Discussion' started by lehrjet, Nov 21, 2011.

  1. Nov 21, 2011 #1
    lehrjet

    lehrjet Inactive User

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    Seems LED Claus left me an early present this year.  Can't wait to get started.  Its going to be one of my most challenging builds yet but will be very cool.  Lots of leds, lots of colors all dimmable and controllable. 
    [​IMG]
     
  2. Nov 21, 2011 #2
    mcclandy

    mcclandy

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    Nice! That is a lot of LED's. Is this for a 6' tank? I think you will find it to be less of a challenge that meets the eye.
     
  3. Nov 21, 2011 #3
    blackx-runner Cedar Rapids, IA

    blackx-runner Administrator Website Team Leadership Team

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    What did you decide to do for colors?
     
  4. Nov 22, 2011 #4
    lehrjet

    lehrjet Inactive User

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    I actually decided on 6 different colors plus moon leds so technically 7 /DesktopModules/ActiveForums/themes/_default/emoticons/smile.gif  I plan on controlling the 4 main colors individually so I can provide whatever look I like and provide the best combination I can for each critter.  I am actually running 9 drivers for the main leds and 2 drivers for the moon leds.  I have them all glued on, now for just some wire work.  I am tired of soldering already and I haven't even started lol.  Ah all the fun of DYI I don't mind it at all, it will be fun.
     
  5. Nov 22, 2011 #5
    Bela

    Bela Inactive User

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    If I may recommend, test your LEDs with a multimeter before you start soldering. I had little electrical knowledge and didn't do this prior. Turned out being a PITA distinguishing a bad LED from a bad solder joint without this knowledge prior... and I only had 24 LEDs to worry about. (not sure of your electrical experience, this may very well seem elementary and "common knowledge" to you. If so, disregard, and good luck!)
     
  6. Nov 22, 2011 #6
    ninjazx777 Des Moines, IA

    ninjazx777 Experienced Reefkeeper

    2,353
    Des Moines, IA
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    wow bela you have bad luck I've made 5 fixtures now with a total of 216 led and haven't had a bad one yet
     
  7. Nov 22, 2011 #7
    Bela

    Bela Inactive User

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    It was a single bad one, but this was also the first time I have ever done soldering. Whilst trying to troubleshoot they said it could be a bad LED, or a bad solder joint. Being a total noob, it took longer than it needed to, had I just checked the LEDs in the first place (even for my noob self it takes about 2 seconds per LED). If you have one bad LED the netire string has the potential not to work, and then have you pulling your hair out. Checking the LEDs FIRST was just a tip I got from the pros /DesktopModules/ActiveForums/themes/_default/emoticons/smile.gif
     
  8. Nov 22, 2011 #8
    lehrjet

    lehrjet Inactive User

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    Thanks, but between what I have done for myself, others, and friends I have over 500 leds under my hands. I also have never had a bad one. I have already tested mine I always test before glue because usually no one will replace them once the glue hits the back. Just a habit I always had when working with electrical stuff always test before you do anything with it. Finding one bad led can be a challenge your right.
     

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