thanx for the quick response I'll look at your links. I won't need the power transistors I don't think. Everything is operated from Fets or power transistors already. I just need 5v triggers. I'm pretty sure the 40ma arduino handles is enough for all the triggers. I do need to test each one to check so I don't fry the unit though. Though most of them Are powered off N channel Fets. The ones that aren't use Power Transistors. Even a few of those are triggered from a Fet. I'm pretty sure nothing draws much from the triggers. Like for instance a 3.5k reisistor a 555 timer 16v capacitor then through a 100k resistor to two npn transistors, then from a 4-6k resistor (they vary had to play with each one to find just the right value) that triggers a Fet to power the Leds. Or chasing kits I got, that go through darlingtons to the Leds that are also triggered by Fets. one circuit only runs 2- 20ma leds but even that runs through 4.7k resistor and transistors. so like I said I need the check the triggers to make sure I'm not over loading the Arduino outputs. but I THINK the draw from the triggers are very small. Just started playing w/ this kinda elec a little while ago. Tons of research. LOTS more complicated than wiring a house. THATS easy...lol