Reverse Current Protection for LEDs – Save Your Circuit!
LEDs are everywhere—from DIY mood lights to industrial panels. But did you know that reverse current can silently destroy them if not protected properly?
⚠️ The Problem: LEDs Don’t Like Reverse Voltage
Unlike diodes, most LEDs aren’t designed for reverse current. If connected backward or exposed to voltage spikes (e.g., in inductive switching), the reverse current can permanently damage the LED.
🔧 The Solution: Add a Simple Protection Diode
To avoid reverse current damage:
Place a Schottky diode or standard rectifier diode in parallel but reverse polarity across the LED.
The diode will conduct and safely bypass the reverse voltage, protecting your LED.
Schottky diodes are preferred due to their fast switching and low forward drop.
💡 Practical Example: LED Strip with a 12V Supply
Say you’re running a 12V LED strip in your prototype. If the power supply is accidentally reversed, the LEDs might be damaged instantly.
✅ Fix: Add a 1N5819 Schottky diode across the LED input terminals. It conducts if polarity is reversed, saving your strip!
🧮 Sample Calculation: Diode Power Rating
If the reverse current is 1A and the diode drops 0.3V:
Power = V × I = 0.3 × 1 = 0.3W
Use a diode rated at least 0.5W or more for safety.
🛠️ Product Suggestion (Made in India)
Protect your LEDs with reliable Indian-made parts:
🔩 Schottky Diodes – Perfect for reverse protection
🧪 Flux Paste – Ensure clean, long-lasting soldering
🛍️ Shop now at SmartXProKits.in
🇮🇳 Support our work and India’s innovation—buy from our Make in India site!
