Do I require use of a diode for 12V applications?

[BustaReims]

Just curious. I'm driving some LEDs for 12V applications; voltage is being regulated to 12V using a Fairchild Linear Regulator, just want to ensure I am properly regulating everything.

Oh, and search turned up nothing. :thinking:

 

[mds82]

What kind of driver are you using for the LED's ?

 

[BustaReims]

What kind of driver are you using for the LED's ?

Just whatever the battery is providing @ 12V

 

[gillestugan]

??? Is the battery providing a driver?

most white leds are driven at about 3.7V, so at 12V they burn instantly.

You need a constant current driver that limits the current through the led. Normal maximum current for 5mm leds are 20mA and 1000mA for 3W leds.

if you are using the farechild regulator off a 12V batter (?) you can adjust it so you have the correct current through the leds.

If it is a voltage regulator I would recommend you use a current regualtor instead.