LED Running Board Install Question

[Jay Perry]

I'm look to install these LED's (http://www.superbrightleds.com/more...ies-constant-current-smd-led-sign-module/944/)

Wanting to put under the running boards on both driver side and passenger side, (2) 6 foot sections. I'm a novice when it comes to powered LEDS, is it as simple as tapping into another light source that achieves the same on/off capabilities? I would like them to operate the same as the puddle lights and other exterior lights that illuminate when unlocking the vehicle. I've already replaced all other LED's, I'm wanting this to finish out the look. Any advise or guidance to other threads is appreciated.

 

[Vegasf6]

Hi Jay. If the specifications are correct and these are actually constant current modules, then yes, you simply need to connect them to a power source from your car that already goes on and off when you want these to. Your existing puddle lights etc.

If they are not actually a constant current controlled module then it would be best to power these through a 12V regulator to ensure that they don't draw too much current and burn out. The best way I could imagine to test this would be to have a variable power supply. Connect them to 12VDC with a multimeter set to amps in series with the module. They should draw 50mA. Turn up the voltage, say to around 14V and see if the current consumption increases. If it does, then a 12V regulator is recommended. If it stays the same, or even goes down, then you won't need one.

The only other concern would be drawing too much current from your existing puddle lamp wiring and ultimately from the body control module. As you can see, each module should draw .6 watts of power. At a guess, I would say you are easily ok to draw as much as 6 watts additional from your existing wiring, so as many as 10 modules.

If you plan on using much more than that you may want to consider wiring them to a relay and use the existing puddle lamps to switch the relay coil.

The only other concern I can think of is water. They claim to be IP65 rated, which may or may not be water resistant enough for your needs. I guess the only way to find out is to try.