I am looking for a schematic with component values for a constant voltage LED driver with an input voltage range of 6 to 20 volts. The assembled unit must be compact in size and capable of driving 2 LEDs that will be used as a head light and rear light in a conventional 51 Navy Yard switcher. I would also like recommendations for LEDs with suitable brightness and light dispersion pattern for such an application. Thanks,
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Here you go, this drives two identical LED's in series at full 20ma current from 6VAC to 20VAC. For headlights, I use the round top LED's, they provide a more focused beam that looks like real headlights. Also, warm white would probably be the right choice for that engine. I believe a 5mm LED will just slip into the lens of those units, if not then you'd use a 3mm.
With a little more complexity, you could probably have directional lights, though they wouldn't be on when stopped.
Gunrunner, I appreciate your help. I thought about directional lighting & decided a toy loco doesn't need it. I have some knowledge of electronics but no experience with voltage regulators. The simplicity of the circuit is fascinating. Thanks again,
Dave, I note you used the term "voltage regulators." GRJ spoke of a current regulator. The terms are not synonomous. I only point this out to assure there are no errors.
I posted a circuit to solve his problem, I think that was the object of the exercise. The CL-2 is labeled as a constant current regulator in the diagram.
Thanks for the clarification guys. I should have said that I have little experience with regulator circuits. I am going to look at my Radio Amature's Handbook to see what I can learn. Thanks again.
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