Introduction: LED Polarity Tester
Ever soldered a LED into your project backwards? It can really mess up a good day!
If you don't know, LED's have a positive side and a negative side, and will only light up when wired correctly. Most LED's have one longer lead to indicate the polarity, but not all. Here's a simple solution to find the correct side BEFORE installing it into your project.
If you don't know, LED's have a positive side and a negative side, and will only light up when wired correctly. Most LED's have one longer lead to indicate the polarity, but not all. Here's a simple solution to find the correct side BEFORE installing it into your project.
Step 1: Equiptment List
1: 2AA battery pack. Can be found on eBay for about $10 for 12
2: Wire strippers/cutters. C'mon, you don't have a pair these in your back pocket already?
2: Wire strippers/cutters. C'mon, you don't have a pair these in your back pocket already?
Step 2: What to Do
1. Strip the ends of the two leads coming from the battery holder. 2. Insert batteries.
3. MOST IMPORTANT! Reward yourself with a cold beer. (if under 21, milk will substitute)
3. MOST IMPORTANT! Reward yourself with a cold beer. (if under 21, milk will substitute)
Step 3: How to Use
1. Stick your LED in question to the wires, note which wire is + and which is -
2. Install your LED into your project correctly the first time.
2. Install your LED into your project correctly the first time.
Step 4: Other Uses
Testing the polarity of anything is extremly easy now! I also use mine for test hook up's, to test motors, and even to power my lasers. Life, my friends, just got a little bit easier.
Now, after I finish this case left over from step 2, number 3, I'll check the comments section and answer any questions you might have.
Now, after I finish this case left over from step 2, number 3, I'll check the comments section and answer any questions you might have.
