Triple Output LED RGB
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An RGB LED is constructed out of three Light Emitting Diodes, these are put in one package. This package is simplified by sharing either the anode or cathode of all the LEDs within the package. This sharing produces the two naming standards for multiple colour LEDs, Common Anode and Common Cathode. The LED's in the package are in the colors: Red, Green and Blue. These LED's can be used to create a wide range of colours in the visible spectrum. An alternative to the RGB LED is the RGBY LED which includes a fourth diode which when lit produces a yellow light.
Controlling an RGB LED can be achieved using a method known as PWM. Using a 4 bit PWM signal is it possible to create 4096 colours. It is hard to achieve a higher colour range due to the non-linear current voltage relationship found in diodes.
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Hooking it up
It is important to check the data sheet or supplier information when working with multiple colour LEDs as often each LED within the package is rated to a different Voltage and Current and if not properly connected can cause damage to the device.
It is common practice to add a resistor in series with the LED, this resistor is pick such that the current through the Diode does not exceed the maximum rated current. In the case of an RGB LED one resistor is needed for each LED within the package.Code
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Availability
References
- SparkFun Electronics Product Information Page for Part COM-00105
This page is a Component on bildr. Components are pages about specific parts, and include connection details and code when available.
Could use a wiring/schematic diagram
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