Hey there,

was wondering if any of you experienced customizers out there are familiar with putting LEDs into transformers?

If so, which ones and types and where should I order them in from?

THanks!

 

There's not much difference between LEDs other than color.
You'll probably want to use button cell batteries since they take up less space.
You can also diffuse the light by sanding the surface of a translucent surface you're illuminating from behind. I'm not sure exactly how it works, like what side is best to sand and whether it helps to sand the LED surface as well. It's basically how the bars on a LED clock work.

 

You'd want to sand the front part, where you want the light to come out. Breaking up the surface area lets more light escape.

 

of the LED or the translucent object it's shining onto?
I think what it does is basically change the direction of the light so that it's not going straight out where it tends of focus in the center. Sanding it randomizes the angles.
It might be useful to sand both surfaces though, since sanding the translucent object would also make it so you don't see through it, though I guess it depends on the context. I'd guess the underside would be better so that the outward surface remains glossy and smooth.
Also it would probably help to paint the inside sides with reflective paint so that the random beams of light are bounced back to the translucent surface.

All this talk and we're not even sure if OP or anyone else is specifically looking to do this. :}

 

lol thanks Ravage!

I was looking at LEDs to buy online but none of them are a kit.

I guess my real question is, what kind of power source should I be ordering? Do i just need to solder the LED to a battery switch or something?

 

I'm not exactly sure, but that kind of information should be basic enough that you can find it by searching.
Like a 9V is supposed to be too much for a single LED, but I've hooked one straight up before. I'm not sure if a single button cell battery is enough for a LED though.

 

First, I'm no expert - but I've messed with some LED stuff before. Typically, white LEDs run about 3 - 3.6V, I believe. Button batteries are 1.5v each, so you always need at least 2. Putting it all together depends on your plans.

I kinda hate momentary switches - the ones that only turn on when you hold the button down (like MP08, or keychain flashlights). I like it to stay on. For that, you can use either a push button switch or a slide switch. Again, depends on the figure or placement of everything. In my custom, I used a micro push button switch: http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/radicons-customs/715960-wfc-foc-galvatron-led-cannon-post8606981.html Instead of using the little black cap that came with the switches, I glued on the trigger from the original piece.

For holding the batteries and wires, it's all up to you. You don't need a kit... you could just glue or tape crap together and it would still work. It depends on if it's for you, or for someone else, and how easy you want to make the batteries replaceable. For me, I tried looking for some junker or dollar store toy or little flashlight that had batteries and an LED. That way, you can hack it up and hopefully use the bits that are holding the batteries instead of trying to make your own.

 

Not sure where you live but here in NZ i found these for like $2.50 in one of those cheap import places that they have in most malls

I havent had a chance to play with them in a TF yet get your batteries and LED for cheap