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How to Attach a Resistor to the RGB LED

Light-emitting diodes or LEDs are gaining in popularity as light sources and status indicators on devices. They come in different colors, sizes and power levels. Red, green and blue (RGB) LEDs are probably the most commonly used ones. An LED requires a power source to function. This power source, for example a battery, is connected to the LED through a resistor. The resistor is used to limit the current flowing through the LED since very high current can damage it permanently.

Things You'll Need

LED
Resistor
Soldering iron
Solder wire
Tweezers

Instructions

- 1
  Identify the resistor needed for the LED from its datasheet. The manufacturers recommend the size of the resistor needed to make the LED function most efficiently. Generally, a resistor of 150 Ohms is used for red LED while 68 Ohms resistors are used for both green and blue LEDs. Procure the required LED.
- 2
  Turn the soldering iron on and set it at a temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 3
  Place the LED on a dry and flat surface and identify its anode from its datasheet. In most cases, the anode has a longer lead.
- 4
  Hold solder wire on the tip of the anode and touch it with the tip of the soldering iron. The solder will melt and cover the end of the anode lead. Retract the solder wire and place the soldering iron tip back in its holder.
- 5
  Place the resistor on a flat and dry surface. Hold the solder wire on the tip of any one of the resistor leads and touch it with the soldering iron tip. The solder will melt and cover the end of the resistor's lead. Retract the solder wire and the soldering iron tip.
- 6
  Hold the resistor with tweezers and gently press its soldered end with the LED's soldered anode. At the same time touch the soldered ends with the tip of the soldering iron. The solder on both leads will melt and merge together. Retract the soldering iron tip and place it back in its holder. Keep on holding the resistor in place until the solder has solidified.

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