Blue LED 5mm (Pack of 5)

Wiring Connections:

• Anode (+): The longer lead of the LED, which connects to the positive side of the power source.
• Cathode (-): The shorter lead of the LED, which connects to the negative side of the power source.

Power:

• Voltage Requirement: Operates at a forward voltage of approximately 3.0V to 3.5V. Ensure your power source matches this requirement to avoid damaging the LED.
• Current Requirement: Typical operating current is 20mA. Exceeding this current can shorten the lifespan or damage the LED.
• Resistor Use: A current-limiting resistor is usually needed in series with the LED to prevent overcurrent and ensure proper operation.

Input and Output:

• Input: The input is the voltage applied across the LED. For proper operation, use a power source with a voltage higher than the forward voltage of the LED, but within its rated limits.
• Output: The output is the light emitted by the LED when current flows through it. The brightness depends on the current and the efficiency of the LED.

Physical Characteristics:

• Shape: Round with a 5mm diameter, designed for standard through-hole mounting.
• Color: Emits blue light.
• Package: Encased in a clear plastic lens that helps to focus and diffuse the light.
• Lead Length: The leads are approximately 5mm long, allowing for easy insertion into breadboards or circuits.

Technical Specifications:

• Forward Voltage (Vf): 3.0V to 3.5V
• Forward Current (If): 20mA
• Wavelength: 460-470 nm
• Luminous Intensity: 5000 mcd
• Viewing Angle: 120 degrees
• Operating Temperature Range:  from -40°C to +85°C

Additional Features:

• Cost-Effective: These LEDs are inexpensive and come in a pack of 5, making them a cost-effective option for various projects.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for a wide range of applications, including indicators, displays, and decorative lighting.
• Easy Integration: Standard 5mm size fits most through-hole circuits and breadboards, making it easy to integrate into electronic projects.

How to Use:

• Step 1: Identify the anode (positive lead) and cathode (negative lead) of the LED. The longer lead is  the anode, and the shorter lead is the cathode.
• Step 2: Determine the power source voltage. Since the LED requires a forward voltage of about 3.0V to 3.5V, use a power source with a voltage slightly higher than this but not exceeding the LED’s maximum rating.
• Step 3: Calculate the appropriate resistor value to limit the current. Use Ohm’s Law to determine the resistor value: R=Vsupply−VfIfR = \frac{V_{supply} – V_{f}}{I_{f}}R=If​Vsupply​−Vf​​. For example, with a 5V power supply and a forward voltage of 3.3V, and aiming for 20mA current: R=5V−3.3V0.02A=85ΩR = \frac{5V – 3.3V}{0.02A} = 85\OmegaR=0.02A5V−3.3V​=85Ω.
• Step 4: Connect the anode of the LED to the positive side of the power supply through the calculated resistor.
• Step 5: Connect the cathode of the LED to the negative side of the power supply.
• Step 6: Verify the connection. Once powered, the LED should light up with a bright blue glow.
• Step 7: If the LED does not light up, check the connections and ensure that the resistor value is correct. Also, make sure the LED is oriented correctly with the anode and cathode properly connected.

These 5mm blue LEDs are versatile and easy to use, making them ideal for a variety of projects, from simple indicator lights to more complex display systems. Their bright blue light and long lifespan offer both functionality and reliability in electronic applications.