Maybe a stupid question, but I can't find 3mm LEDs that aren't high-brightness, that work well as an indicator when using a current if 10 or 15 mA.
I have a lot of 220Ω resistors that I bought just for them (5V power), but since I run out of my 3mm LEDs, I can only find the high-brightness version. The brick and mortar hardware store here in town only sells the ones with transparent lens, any color I need. I also tried placing a couple orders online (AliExpress and Amazon) for 3mm LEDs with colored lens, but they were equally super bright. Just saying, in both cases I had to use 8kΩ resistors to get a brightness comparable to my old LEDs, instead of 220Ω. And neither I like the "shape" of their light, I can't tell exactly why, but older ones had a nicer and much more uniform coloring.
Somebody can confirm that? Should I give up? Or there's still hope to find something online? If yes, how could I identify them with certainty? Thanks a lot.
It's not only that, I don't like the non-uniform coloring on those. And I was just asking if I should expect that every LED is like that by now, or if it's just my bad luck, and it's still easy to find them like my old ones. Just that. And yes, in fact my post starts with "maybe a stupid question". Anyway, thank you for your reply.
Most current LEDs have - as you say - either clear or lightly coloured encapsulation, so will not be strongly diffused. Perhaps try using an abrasive cleaning product on them, even very fine sandpaper. Plenty of packs available on eBay and Ali.
Point is, you may have concerns about the diffusion and beam angle, but can't complain about the efficiency. Just get a pack of 10k resistors.
Now I do complain about the excess brightness of the power "pilot" LEDs on various boards including the Arduinox and various modules - they are in general, excessively dazzling and are only needed in the first place to demonstrate you have the power wired appropriately, once that is confirmed they have no further use at all.
Ok, thanks, I'll try fine sandpaper, I should have some. Yes, I have to put tape on the power LED on my Nanos, or the red light will leak out from every slit of my projects, ahahah. I make Eurorack synth modules, and I usually play it in the dark.
Just get a pack of 10k resistors.