Here, we will look at getting our LEDs to work without a transformer and build a simple light that is integrated into an expansion bar.
WARNING: For countries with 110v mains, we'd be working with voltages of 150 volts! For Europe and other countries, we are talking about 300 volts or more! At these levels, electricity is lethal! Do not continue unless you are comfortable with working with high voltages and are aware of the precautions to take!
AC supplies are quoted in rms (root-mean-square) values. The PEAK voltage is sqrt(2) * Vrms, which is about 1.4 * Vrms
Step 1: Some background
150 / 20mA = 7500-ohms (we should subtract the voltage of the LED from 150v first, but the difference is minor)
7500-ohms? Not too bad... But then let's consider the power rating of this resistor, using the Power rule: P = (V2) / R, we get:
150 * 150 / 7500 = 3 watts, and that's a pretty hefty resistor. Brits with 240v mains will need a 17000-ohm resistor rated for almost 7-watts. And these will be running HOT!
Fortunately, by substituting a capacitor for the resistor, we can get the same reduction on voltage without the (or as much) heat. Capacitors delay the phase angle of AC which we can use to oppose itself, much like receding waves on the shore cancelling out some of the force of incoming ones.
Step 2: Our circuit
C = 1 / (2 * pi * f * X) where f is the mains frequency
which is .4uF for 110v 60Hz, and .2uF for 240v 50Hz.
Instead of watts like resistors, capacitors are rated by volts, we have to make sure we get caps rated for AT LEAST 250-volts (States) and 450-volts for 200-volt countries.
WARNING: Capacitors with insufficient voltage ratings may explode!
This very simple design will drive 2 - 16 LEDs without any changes. Just put the same number of LEDs in each branch, and make sure you hook them up with opposing current flow.
Step 3: A non-lethal installation
Use a .4uF (.33 to .5uF) capacitor and attach your device to the 2 leads of your telephone junction box (usually the red and green wires), and it will flash when you get a call.
NOTE: this ONLY works on home phone circuits - PBX and Central phone systems are totally incompatible.
Step 4: Making the socket expansion light
Socket Expansion - check to make sure it has a screw-in back. I got mine (a 'Noma') at Target (Radio Shack seem to have a similar one as well). Obviously you have to get one that is suited for the power system in your country.
Capacitor - (US, 110v 60Hz) any value from .33uF to .47uF 250-volts MINIMUM!
(Others 200-240v 50Hz) .15uF to .22uF 400-volts MINIMUM!
Resistor - 1000-ohm (1K) 1/2W. I did not have a 1/2W resistor, so I took 3 x 3300-ohm 1/2W resistors and wired them in parallel to get a 1100-ohm 3/4W resistor
LEDs - 14 pieces of high-brightness, 20mA 5mm (T-3) White
Heat shrink tubing
Step 5: Preparing the LEDs
Rank them in brightness and place the brighter ones in the middle.
Step 6: Preparing the Socket
Mark out 2 rows of 7 points, 3/8" apart on masking tape. Center it on the end you decided on and start 14 holes with a 1/16" bit. Expand, using a 3/64" bit. Smooth the holes SLIGHTLY - it should hold the LEDs snug.
Step 7: Installing the LEDs
Bend the LEDs in an "L" shape (short wire on the appropriate side) and snug them into the bottom row.
Spread the wires about 30o to cross it's neighbor's. Solder lightly to keep in place, but DO NOT TRIM ENDS.
We will be assembling the LEDs in a lattice - see the second image. Except for the end units, each LED should have a lead touching 3 other LEDs.
It helps by pre-forming the LEDs for the top row so it can clear the "X" junction. (See image)
When you are finished, CAREFULLY reposition the leads to make room behind for the resitor(s) and capacitor. Make sure the solder joints are solid and no wire is shorting out.
Step 8: Finishing touches
Space IS tight, so only use as much wire as is needed.
The long green bundle under the cap is the resistor assembly.
The cap is linked to the other end of the LEDs with the red wire.
The big arrow is to make sure I don't start operating on the wrong end of the patient!
Make sure everything is tight and reassemble.