DPDT switch + two-lead bi-color led wiring

EisengesisFX

EisengesisFX

Well-known member
Hey folks, I'm wiring up a build where I've managed to replace the SPST toggle with a DPDT footswitch (big shouts as ever to @DGWVI). It's just a hi/lo gain control switch, basically. Does anyone have a sec to illustrate how to wire this Tayda A-1076 bi-color LED to the left leg(s) of the DPDT? Thank you in advance 🙏🏻
IMG_20250412_115519783.jpg IMG_20250412_115537636.jpg
 
Last edited:
You have to reverse both legs for those to work. Not easy with one pole.
You need a common anode 3 leg bicolor led.
You could use a 3 pole switch, put power(after clr) on one pole and ground on the other and invert the orientation of the LED that way
 
I would try this on the bread card or with bare wire and a CLR first.
The only data I could find on that diode was a 2.2-2.5V requirement, IIRC. No datasheet.
It may just burn up at 9V with a CLR. Not al LEDs don't fare well wired inverted. These may have some secondary diodes or something of the like inside that protect them from reverse current. Not really sure.
Common anode is the way to go here in the future though. Common cathode will work, but I don't like putting 9V on a switch that carries signal, especially IO. Using common anode, you just switch each cathode to ground with one pole. Plenty of diagrams out there on that. One in the PPCB wiki I believe.
 
If your circuit has a solid 4.5V supply you could do it with a single pole.

A simple VREF voltage divider won't work, it'd need to be capable of sinking and supplying enough current to light the LED.


1744499738228.png
 
Last edited:
Robert said:
If your circuit has a solid 4.5V supply you could do it with a single pole.

A simple VREF voltage divider won't work, it'd need to be capable of sinking and supplying enough current to light the LED.
Click to expand...
Would that make one color much brighter than the other?
Double voltage/ half current...
Edit: nope nevermind
I'm tired
Same potential...
 
Turns out I have a 3mm, 3-leg bi-color one after all! IMG_20250413_104838134.jpg


I also definitely have a spare 3PDT I can use. Do I wire the LED like the one pictured in this diagram? How do I wire the SPST holes to the 3PDT?
3PDTwiring.jpg
 
Last edited:
Grab your DMM, set it to Continuity or Diode test mode.

Put the Black probe on the center LED lead, then put the Red probe on either of the outer leads.
Does it light? (It might not be very bright) If so, it's common cathode.

If not, reverse the leads. Red in the center.
Now does it light? If so, it's common anode.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top