Joule Thief 10x10 LED Lamp
This project involves a straightforward LED assembly utilizing readily available components: 100 3mm LEDs (acquired from eBay), a toroidal core (recovered from CFL lamps), enameled wire/magnet wire (also salvaged), a 100-ohm resistor (values up to 1k may be suitable), a 2N2222A transistor (the TO-92 variant), and a battery holder.
The Joule Thief circuit is a minimalist boost converter designed to extract energy from low-voltage sources, such as depleted batteries. By utilizing a toroidal core, the circuit efficiently steps up the voltage to power multiple LEDs. The 2N2222A transistor serves as the primary switching element, allowing the circuit to oscillate and generate the necessary voltage increase.
In this configuration, the 100 3mm LEDs are arranged in a 10x10 grid, providing a visually appealing light output. The choice of a blue LED enhances the aesthetic appeal while also ensuring energy efficiency. The circuit can operate on a range of one to four AA batteries, making it versatile and easy to power.
The 100-ohm resistor is critical in setting the base current for the 2N2222A transistor, ensuring optimal operation without exceeding the component's limits. Higher resistor values can be used, but care must be taken to maintain sufficient current for the desired brightness.
This project not only serves as an excellent introduction to basic electronics and circuit design but also results in a functional and attractive LED lamp. The Joule Thief 10x10 LED Lamp can be a conversation starter and a practical lighting solution for various settings.Afraid of the dark? Built a simple Joule Thief circuit and would like to go further? Just want to have a cool blue light to show off to friends? Let me present the Joule Thief 10x10 LED Lamp! The Joule Thief 10x10 LED Lamp! Runs on one to four AA batteries. Lights up 100 LEDs, illuminates your night!This is a simple LED project build with parts I have on hand,100 3mm LEDs (Bought from ebay) Toroidal core (Salvaged from CFL lamps)Enameled wire/Magnet Wire (salvaged)100 ohm resistor (values up to 1k should work)2N2222A transistor (The TO-92 version of it)Battery Holder 🔗 External reference
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