Illuminating Red Eyes

Circuit description:

This circuit is used to slowly illuminate and fade a pair of red LEDs (light emitting diodes). The fading LEDs could be installed as 'eyes' in a small pumpkin or skull as a Halloween attraction, or mounted in a Christmas tree ornament. Or, they might be used as a fancy power indicator for your computer, microwave oven, stereo system, TV, or other appliance. The LM1458 IC is a three-terminal adjustable linear regulator that provides a stable 3 volt (peak to peak) ramping waveform. This waveform is buffered with an emitter follower transistor stage, which maximizes the output current. A 22uF capacitor and 47K resistor connected to pin 2 of the LM1458 establish the frequency at around 0.5 Hz, offering adjustable rate options using a 100K potentiometer in place of the 47K resistor at pin 2.

The circuit consists of two operational amplifiers (opamps), one producing a slow rising and falling voltage from about 3 volts to 6 volts, and the other (on the right) is used as a voltage comparator, the output of which supplies a alternating voltage switching between 2 and 7 volts to charge and discharge the capacitor with a constant current. The 47K resistors connected to the inputs of the opamps provide a reference voltage of 4.5 volts, ensuring consistent operation. The left opamp is connected as an inverting amplifier with a capacitor placed between the output (pin 1) and the inverting input (pin 2). The right opamp is connected as a voltage comparator, allowing for the switching output at pin 7, which when low, indicates a signal below the reference, and high when the input is higher than the reference. A 100K resistor is connected between the comparator output and input to provide positive feedback and pulls the input above or below the switching point when the threshold is reached.

Adjustments to the point where the LEDs extinguish can be made by altering the resistor value at pin 3 and 6 to ground. I found a 56K resistor in place of the 47K shown worked a little better with the particular LEDs used. You can experiment with this value to get the desired effect. The IC, LM1458, is a three-terminal adjustable linear regulator which is a versatile component allowing for stable and regulated output voltages in a range of applications. The output voltage can be adjusted by changing the resistance connected to the adjustable terminal, offering a flexible solution for various circuit needs. The input voltage must always be greater than the output voltage for proper operation.

Parts List:

Note: The LED listed has a narrow viewing angle of 30 degrees and appears brightest when looking directly at it. It's not a pure red color, and a little on the orange side, but should be brighter compared to other selections. For a wider viewing angle at reduced intensity, try part number 670-1257 which is viewable at 60 degrees and has a red diffused lens. The LM1458 is a highly reliable and commonly used operational amplifier known for its low bias current and excellent performance characteristics. This component offers stable operation and a wide operating frequency range, making it suitable for various circuit designs. The quality of the LEDs also affects the overall visual experience, with wider viewing angles providing a broader spread of light.

Construction details:

Layout of the solderless breadboard:

Refer to the drawing below the schematic diagram and note the solderless breadboard is arranged in rows labeled A-J, and columns numbered 1 to 65. Each group of 5 holes in the same column are the same connection, so that holes A1,B1,C1,D1 and E1 are all connected together. Likewise holes F1,G1,H1,I1 and J1 are all the same connection. The outer rows along the length of the board are also connected together and are normally used for power supply connections. However, there is a break in the mid section of the outer rows, so a short jumper wire connecting the mid section of the outer rows should be installed to connect the entire outer row together. If you have a DMM, use the low ohms range and probe the various holes to get familiar with the board layout. The LM1458 IC provides a stable voltage output and is a versatile component in various electronic circuits. Using the breadboard facilitates experimentation and prototyping without the need for permanent soldering. The layout is carefully designed to ensure optimal component placement and connectivity.

Installing the components:

Orientate the LM1458 so the nook or punch mark on one edge is near column 30 and the opposite edge is near column 33. Install the LM1458 on the breadboard so the pins straddle the center section of the board and pin 1 of the IC is occupying hole E30 and pin 8 is in hole F30. The pins are numbered counter clockwise, so pin 4 will be occupying F33 and pin 5 will be in E33. Possible connections for the LM1458, 9 volt battery, and a couple other parts is illustrated in the lower drawing of the solderless breadboard, but it is not complete with all parts. The 2N3904 transistor is a general-purpose NPN transistor frequently used in switching circuits, offering reliable performance and ease of use. The LM1458 IC is a three-terminal adjustable linear regulator, offering a stable and adjustable output voltage, which is essential for precise circuit operation. Careful placement of the components is crucial for optimal circuit performance and reliability.

Refer to the schematic diagram, and install the various other components so they connect to the appropriate pins of the LM1458. Use whatever connection holes are convenient. For example, the 22uF capacitor connects between pins 1 and 2 of the IC, which occupy holes (F30,F31) so it could be placed in the holes (H30, H31) or (J30,J31) or (I30,I31). But not all parts will conveniently fit, so you may have to use a short jumper wire (#22 preferred) to connect parts from one side of the chip to the other. The 9 volt battery supplies power to the circuit, enabling the LEDs to illuminate. The breadboard provides a convenient platform for prototyping electronic circuits, allowing for easy modification and experimentation. The LM1458 IC is a common component and is used for power regulation and stable voltage output.

The board I assembled was connected this way:

Circuit diagram

The circuit below illustrates two pairs of LEDs that operate out of phase so as one pair slowly illuminate, the other pair will fade. The LED brightness control allows for adjustments to the LED current, ensuring optimal brightness and preventing damage. The LM1458 IC is a reliable regulator and provides stable current to the LEDs.