The Complete Beginners Guide to Arduino - 2021 - LEDs and Current Limiting Resistors

The video tutorial explains the importance of using a current limiting resistor with LEDs to prevent burnout and extend their lifespan. It provides a formula to calculate the appropriate resistor value using the LED's forward current, forward voltage drop, and supply voltage. Practical tips are given for cases where datasheets are unavailable, and common beginner mistakes are highlighted, such as using a single resistor for multiple LEDs, which can lead to circuit damage.

Why is it important to limit the current flowing through an LED?

• To increase the brightness of the LED

• To prevent the LED from overheating and burning out

• To ensure the LED changes color

• To reduce the power consumption of the circuit

What three values are needed to calculate the resistor for an LED circuit?

• LED color, LED size, and supply voltage

• LED forward voltage drop, LED resistance, and supply voltage

• LED forward current, LED forward voltage drop, and supply voltage

• LED forward current, LED resistance, and supply voltage

If an LED has a forward voltage drop of 2.8 volts and a forward current of 30 milliamps, what is the approximate resistor value needed for a 5-volt supply?

• 150 ohms

• 200 ohms

• 100 ohms

• 73.3 ohms

What is a common mistake beginners make when using LEDs in a circuit?

• Using resistors with too high a value

• Using a single resistor for multiple LEDs

• Using too many resistors in series

• Connecting LEDs directly to the power source

Why is it important to use a current limiting resistor with an Arduino?

• To prevent damage to the Arduino's output pins

• To increase the Arduino's processing speed

• To ensure the Arduino can power multiple LEDs

• To prevent the Arduino from overheating