How it's made

DIY voltage-boosting LED driver

Learn how to create a DIY voltage-boosting LED driver using the principles of a step-up (boost) converter. The guide covers the design and operation of pulse power converters, focusing on current and voltage feedback mechanisms, using a homemade LED flashlight as an example. It details the assembly of a step-up converter with adjustable brightness, utilizing components like coils, capacitors, and a feedback system for effective voltage regulation.

How to Use Accelerometers

Constructing a custom fitness tracker or gesture recognition device requires an accelerometer, specifically the ADXL335. This compact sensor detects acceleration through a suspended mass that shifts during movement. The setup involves connecting capacitors and operational amplifiers to process the sensor's output. The article outlines the steps to create a step counter by filtering and amplifying the signal, resulting in clock pulses for counting. A video demonstration showcases the circuit in action.

Touch Sensor-Controlled LED Tabletop Lamp, Dimmable and Rechargeable

Create a touch sensor-controlled LED lamp with dimming and rechargeable features. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for building it yourself, using easily accessible components.

PWM LED dimmer

Let's assemble a completely analog PWM LED brightness controller using four operational amplifiers and figure out why PWM is needed and what it is.

Resistive DAC-Controlled LED Light

Using a 74LS90 and resistor DAC, the circuit outputs stepped voltages for LED brightness. An op amp amplifies them, providing incremental LED current. Simple dividers and counters manage timing, while a flip-flop and 555 monostable enable manual or automatic stepping. This low-cost approach demonstrates basic LED dimming with minimal components.