I have a train layout, with lots of controled blocks. I want to connect a light to each block. I have resistor connected to one leg of an LED. So the resistor end and the other led end are connected to the track. But with the power on, I want to keep the led light in either direction. The light only stays on in one direction. The led light shuts off in the other direction. How can I keep the led light on in either direction. HELP!!!!
Answers (1)
The led only conducts in one direction, so you need a bridge rectifier. Here is an explanation with pictures. www.google.com/search?tbm=isch&q=bridge+rectifier+circuit+explanation Your block would be the source and the led would be the load.
You can use four diodes as drawn, or you can use an ic. Here are some sources. www.google.com/search?tbm=isch&q=bridge+rectifier+ic+pin+configuration The smallest will do for your led.