Advertisement

Flashing Lamps

Not rated 21,248

#flashing lamps #Christmas tree lights #SCR #transistor #timing circuit #capacitor #resistors #trigger circuit
Flashing Lamps
Flashing Lamps

Description: This circuit is intended as a reliable replacement to thermally-activated switches used for Christmas tree lamp-flashing. The device formed by Q1, Q2 and related resistors triggers the SCR. Timing is provided by R1, R2 & C1. To change flashing frequency do not modify R1 and R2 values: set C1 value from 100 to 2200µF instead. More: Best performances are obtained with C1= 470 or 1000µF and R4= 12K or 10K. Due to low consumption of normal 10 or 20 lamp series-loops intended for Christmas trees (60mA @ 230V typical for a 20 lamp series-loop), very small and cheap SCR devices can be used.

The circuit operates as a lamp-flashing controller designed specifically for use with Christmas tree lighting systems. It utilizes a silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR) to manage the on-off switching of the lights. The primary components involved in the operation include two transistors (Q1, Q2), resistors (R1, R2, R4), and a capacitor (C1).

The timing mechanism of the circuit is crucial for determining the flash frequency of the lamps. R1 and R2 act as biasing resistors for the transistors, while C1 serves as a timing capacitor. The value of C1 can be adjusted between 100µF and 2200µF to change the flash rate without altering R1 and R2, which allows for flexibility in operation. It is recommended to use C1 at values of either 470µF or 1000µF to achieve optimal performance, along with R4 set to either 10K or 12K ohms.

The circuit is designed to work efficiently with low power consumption typical of Christmas tree light setups, which generally draw around 60mA at 230V for a series loop of 20 lamps. This low current requirement allows for the use of compact and cost-effective SCR devices, making the circuit both an economical and space-saving solution for decorative lighting applications. The overall design ensures reliable operation while providing the desired aesthetic effect of flashing lights during the holiday season.This circuit is intended as a reliable replacement to thermally-activated switches used for Christmas tree lamp-flashing. The device formed by Q1, Q2 and related resistors triggers the SCR. Timing is provided by R1, R2 & C1. To change flashing frequency do not modify R1 and R2 values: set C1 value from 100 to 2200µF instead.

Best performances are obtained with C1= 470 or 1000µF and R4= 12K or 10K. Due to low consumption of normal 10 or 20 lamp series-loops intended for Christmas trees (60mA @ 230V typical for a 20 lamp series-loop), very small and cheap SCR devices can be

Related Circuits