rocketgeek:
Thanks for these tips. I'm in the exact same situation. I tried your suggestion using a J176 (Intelligent Power and Sensing Technologies | onsemi) P-channel FET. Unfortunately, the LED just stays lit the entire time. Any other suggestions?
I'm really confused as to why a P-channel isn't working in this case though.
EDIT: nevermind, i'm dumb. forgot the 10k load resistor from drain to GND, works perfectly with it.