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.
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?
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)
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.
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.