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Last updated: September 22, 2025

Multiple LED Series and Parallel Connection Circuit Guide

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850-ohm Fixed Resistor 1/4W

850R Fixed Resistor 1/4W

A 850-ohm resistor rated for 0.25 watts

3V LED 5mm

3V LED 5mm

3V, 5mm round light-emitting diode

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Parallel LED Circuit

Learn how to connect multiple LEDs in series and parallel. Ensure correct voltage, current limiting, and safe operation for hobby electronics projects.

mixer grinder wiring diagram

An LED series and parallel connection contributes to making LEDs almost equal in brightness and voltage control. Voltage summing using series and current sharing using parallel is a safe and efficient way of operating.

single-phase grinder connection

The Multiple LED Series and Parallel Connection project shows how to safely combine a series of LEDs, in parallel, or a combination of LEDs. The series connections add voltages along the LEDs, whereas the parallel connections are the same voltage but divided by the current. A series connection is where all the LEDs receive the same current; however, the supply voltage has to be the sum of the forward voltages of all the LEDs, plus a current-limiting resistor. In parallel connection, a resistor is needed for each LED to avoid non-uniform brightness or excess current. In series-parallel combinations, a series of LEDs is wired in parallel to have the balance done with a series of resistors. The guide is perfect for students, hobbyists, and DIY electronics lovers in order to create fosplays, decorative lights, or indicator arrays. Checking polarity and proper resistors, calculations of voltages are important to prevent damage to LEDs. This type of connection is used to maintain the same brightness and a safe operation in any form of LED circuit.

Work / Installation (Inputs → Outputs)

  • Power Supply → DC source matching total LED voltage for series or individual voltage for parallel groups.
  • Series Connection → LEDs connected end-to-end; add a current-limiting resistor.
  • Parallel Connection → Each LED or series group has its own resistor.
  • Polarity Check → Ensure anode (+) and cathode (-) of LEDs are correct.
  • Output → LEDs light up uniformly; brightness controlled by resistor values.
  • Installation → Assemble LEDs on breadboard, PCB, or strip; verify series and parallel connections; test operation with DC supply.

Testing & Final Adjustments

Once the LEDs have been assembled, power them on with DC. Verify that there is even light; if any LEDs are dim or not working, it could be a sign of improper polarity or a wrong resistor. Potentiometers can be used to adjust the values of resistors to balance the light and power of the entire circuit. In series and parallel arrays, apply voltage across individual series strings and make sure that they are equal to the LED forward voltages. Always close all the connections to avoid short-circuiting. This guarantees long-term, dependable operation of LEDs appropriate for displays, indicators, and decorative lighting works.

Frequently Asked Questions - Parallel LED Circuit:

What is series LED connection?

LEDs connected end-to-end so the same current flows through all.

What is parallel LED connection?

LEDs connected side-by-side, sharing the same voltage but dividing current.

Do I need resistors?

Yes, to limit current and prevent LED damage.

Can series LEDs run on low voltage?

No, supply voltage must equal sum of LED forward voltages.

Can parallel LEDs have one resistor?

No, each LED or series group should have its own resistor.

What happens if polarity is wrong?

LED will not light up or may get damaged.

Can I mix series and parallel?

Yes, series-parallel combination is common for LED arrays.

How to calculate resistor?

Resistor = (Supply Voltage - Total LED Voltage)/Desired Current.

Is this beginner-friendly?

Yes, with basic electronics knowledge and careful assembly.

Applications?

LED displays, indicators, decorative lighting, and hobby electronics.

Rojony Khatun

Rojony Khatun

CalculatorToolsProject

Rojony Khatun is the creator of a free online tools website designed to simplify everyday and engineering-related calculations for students, professionals, and hobbyists. The platform offers a wide variety of basic and advanced calculators across key categories, including Electrical Calculators, Electronic Calculators, and Time & Date Calculators, helping users solve problems quickly and accurately.