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View Full Version : Discussion Lightweight LED Setup

Rocketman1092
May 02, 2008, 10:17 PM
I'm planning to build a Mini Bug type night flyer (see my thread here: http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=857593) with about 13 LEDs around the perimeter of the wing and fuselage. I'm hoping that by embedding the LEDs into the foam facing inwards, I'll be able to make the EPP foam appear to glow. Since the airplane will likely weigh less than 4oz ready to fly, I need a really light LED setup. Do any night-flying experts out there know of some small but bright LEDs (and small resistors if possible) that I could use? Also, would thin magnet wire be able to support the current draw?
GallopingGhost
May 03, 2008, 10:13 PM
I am on the same page as you but ahead by a couple of weeks. I got some great multi color flashing LEDs off Flea Bay for around $10.00 with resistors. I have made the trip to Radio Shack and picked up 3 rolls of magnet wire in different sizes. I bought 3 mm and 5 mm LEDs and I expect you want the smaller of the 2. You may need to go with 6mm foam if you want to contain the LEDs in the foam. From my research it is a go. Just got to do it!
Rocketman1092
May 04, 2008, 09:26 AM
I've found some LEDs, decided to go with the 3mm ones. The foam I'm using is 6mm, so I should be able to bury them in OK. I did see the LEDs on eBay, but am trying to find some resistors that are smaller and lighter than the standard color coded ones that are provided with those LEDs. I don't know how much they weigh, but every gram counts on a plane this small.
GallopingGhost
May 04, 2008, 10:30 AM
I've found some LEDs, decided to go with the 3mm ones. The foam I'm using is 6mm, so I should be able to bury them in OK. I did see the LEDs on eBay, but am trying to find some resistors that are smaller and lighter than the standard color coded ones that are provided with those LEDs. I don't know how much they weigh, but every gram counts on a plane this small.

The resistors that came with mine are VERY small and light. The solder is more of a concern than they are if you are weight sensitive. I've been thinking about a thin strip of 3mm depron with 2 slits in it to hold the magnet wire in check. Be my luck to snag the wire on something if I don't. I know it all adds up weight but I want it to be reliable.