Technical > Electronics > How to do a circuit diagram for 12v LED strip

How to do a circuit diagram for 12v LED strip

Not knowing what your strip is, I can't say for sure BUT it sounds like a classic over current to the LEDs. Which is killing them and the battery. You have to limit the current to the LEDS. Do you have a link to the LED strip so we can see what it is or at least specs.

reply to thomas_cher
The battery is not capable of supplying the current the LED wants for an extended period of time.

You need to measure the current going into the LED strip -- if it's more than the spec, you need at least a current limiting resistor, or even better an LED driver.

If the current is within spec, you need a bigger (or more) battery .
--
Wacky Races 2012!

reply to thomas_cher
In order to power LEDs with a voltage source just slightly higher than the rated voltage of the LEDs you will need a driver. A resistor won't do it as a slight variation in the voltage of the source will cause a major variation in the current and the light output.
Now if the voltage of the source is much higher then a resistor will do - but pay attention to the current dissipation.

reply to thomas_cher
»www.digikey.com/product-search/e···20RCD-24

Here is a list of (reasonable cost) DC-DC LED drivers at Digikey. Choose one which can supply the maximum allowable current for your LED string. FYI it is better to use lower than rated maximum current. For example 700mA LEDs which are run at 500mA may last twice as long.

You should also buy a cut-off device which prevents battery from being drained too much. It is best to recharge around 11V if you want the battery to last a long time.

*** Google search finds this $15 LED string driver which accepts 7V-12V input and comes with a remote.

»www.lowpricerc.com/product_info.···ab04e7e0

a few buck-boost modules at digikey: »www.digikey.com/scripts/dksearch···1098=310

reply to cowboyro

reply to thomas_cher