Power an LED that requires more the 5V

Projects General Guidance
1

I am trying to control a light board with Chanzon LED chips that have a forward voltage of 6.5V and require 650mA. The 5V Arduino output is not sufficient to power these LEDs directly. I am looking for examples of approaches to this problem. Thanks.

2

You need a power supply for that voltage and current and a logic level MOSFET to turn the LED chip on and off.

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3

I would use a TIP120, but only because a have a pile of them on hand. It is an old darlington junction transistor that will drop a couple of volts and dissipate a couple of watts in your application.

If you are getting parts for this application use a logic level MOSFET. Less voltage loss and lower power dissipation.

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4

Thanks
I have found some YouTubes and Websites that talk about the process. I am afraid I am no electronics person and need to control a lightbox for a research project on myopia.

5

Thanks so much
I had no idea this type of construct existed. I have searched YouTube and will watch some videos. Your help is greatly appreciated

6

Here is how I drive a 12V fan from a 3.3V GPIO pin. (5V will work also).

fan control
fan control926×612 28.8 KB

7

Thank you all. I think I have. I have ordered some MOSFETs and will start experimenting soon. You folks are all great.

8

FYI

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