Introduction: Ultra-Compact LED Tester With Dual Current Modes

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About: Hello! I am a 30-year-old 3D printer enthusiast and tinkerer from Norway. I have a passion for creating innovative and practical projects, from electronics to custom tools and gadgets. I enjoy sharing my creat…

I wanted to create a compact LED tester that allows me to easily check the functionality of LEDs with two different current settings. This model provides a straightforward and efficient solution for testing LEDs at 10mA and 20mA currents using a simple push-to-test mechanism. The unit is portable, easy to use, and perfect for quick LED checks in various projects.

Key Features:

  • Dual Current Settings: Test LEDs at both 10mA and 20mA.
  • Push-to-Test Mechanism: A simple push-button makes it easy to test LEDs quickly.
  • Portability: The compact design makes it easy to carry around in your toolkit or pocket.

Printing Tips:

  • Nozzle Size: For best results in the text and symbols, I used a 0.25mm nozzle. This results in much clearer text.
  • Dual-Color Effect: To achieve a nice dual-color effect, print the text first, then print the lid on the same plate.

Supplies

Material list:

• 3D Printed Enclosure - 1 set

• CR2032 Battery Holder - 1x

• CR2032 Battery - 1x

• 200Ω Resistor (for 10mA) - 1x

• 100Ω Resistor (for 20mA) - 1x

• Female Dupont Connectors - 3x

• Dupont Connector Housing - 3x

• Small Protoboard - 1x

• Brass Inserts - 2x

• Soldering Iron and Solder

Step 1: Assemble the Circuit

Cut the Breadboard: Start by cutting out a small piece of breadboard.


Place the Resistors: Next, place the two resistors as demonstrated in the picture.


Solder the Resistors: Now solder the resistors in place and trimm the legs.


Place the Battery Holder: Position the battery holder on the breadboard as shown in the picture.


Solder the Battery Holder: Now solder the two pins from the battery holder in place. And cut off one resistor leg and solder it as a connection between one of the battery holder's pins and both resistors.


Prepare the Dupont Connectors: Cut a leg from a resistor, crimp it with a Dupont female connector, solder the resistor leg to the Dupont, and finally put on the Dupont housing. Now repeat this three times.


Place the Dupont Pins on the Breadboard: Now thread each Dupont pin you prepared through the breadboard as shown.


Solder the Pins: Solder the three pins to the breadboard. Follow the picture for reference and do the following:

Bend and solder one of the pins to the resistor's solder seam,

Bend and solder one pin to the other resistor's solder seam,

Now finally solder the middle pin to the battery holder's ground pin.


Insert the Brass Inserts: Now place two brass inserts into the box lid using a soldering iron or a wood burner.


Place the Breadboard in the Box: Next, place the breadboard in the bottom part of the box. Also keep in mind, in this build we are plaing the batter in the socket the wrong way as shown in the picture. The reason for this is that it fits more snuggly this way.


Final Assembly: All that remains now is to screw the box shut using two screws!


Congratulations on completing your LED tester! You now have a new tool that allows you to quickly test LEDs at 10mA and 20mA. Feel free to share your make and any modifications you’ve made.

Thank you for following along, and happy building! 🛠️💡