#CONNECTING A CATHODE LED SERIES#

#CONNECTING A CATHODE LED SERIES#

Often referred to as ‘daisy-chained’ or ‘looped’ the current in a series circuit follows one path from start to finish with the Anode (positive) of the second LED connected to the Cathode (negative) of the first.

When each LED is receiving the same current it helps eliminate issues like thermal runaway.ĭon’t worry, a parallel circuit is still a viable option and used often later we will outline this type of circuit.įirst, though, let’s wrap our heads around a series circuit: This means each LED in the circuit will be the same brightness and will not allow a single LED to hog more current than another. Running a series circuit helps to provide the same amount of current to each LED. The requirements of a lighting application often dictate what type of circuit can be used, but if given the choice, the most efficient way to run high power LEDs is using a series circuit with a constant current LED driver. Is one better than the other…Series, Parallel, or Series/Parallel? Let’s get started with the most basic question… With years of providing LED education, training, and explaining the electronic circuit concept to customers, we have gathered and prepared all the critical information needed to help you understand the concept of electrical circuits and their relationship to LEDs.įirst things first, don’t let electrical circuits and wiring LED components sound daunting or confusing – connecting LEDs correctly can be simple and made easy to understand if you follow this post.

It’s likely though, that you’ve already read the Wikipedia page about Series and parallel circuits here, maybe a few other Google search results on the subject, and are still unclear or want more specific information as it pertains to LEDs. Hopefully, those looking for practical information on electrical circuits and wiring LED components found this guide first.

Connecting a cathode led