Joule Thief

[xee2]

@ timmy1729

Measuring the output is hard because it is pulsed high voltage. But you can easily measure the input power by putting an ammeter in series with battery. Then you can adjust resistor value to get best brightness with lowest current. Keep resistor value over 1000 ohms to start just to be safe and not risk damaging meter.

[jeanna]

@Pirate88179

Can not tell what is in package by label. I bought a 2 pack with this label and one of cameras is an AA board with LED (haven't opened the other one yet). I think this is just the new package style and the cameras inside can still be anything.

Here is the visual difference from the outside of the camera. THE BOX IS THE SAME FOR BOTH!. I moved---sorry for the fuzz.

The AA has a push button and is a smooth rubberish button you hold for 1 flash or lift up the door for continuous flash.
The AAA has a green button with 4 bumps that you slide up into position for flash.

I hope this uploads.

jeanna

[xee2]

@ jeanna

Great info. The package shows the AA version. I recommend opening the package at the store and demanding your money back if the camera inside is not like the one shown on the package. That way only AA cameras will have to be paid for.

[jeanna]

@xee2

HA!

I am using the AA that I have since there was a real success with it.
I put a switch on it like Bill's.
Then I soldered the striped end of the diode (underneath).

My question to you is, why should the 2 switch ends be connected on the board?
and
Is there a way to test this without a bulb to know if the power is going where it is supposed to? I should think so, but I need to use my torroid joule thief to get any results. but I didn't short those switch places and I didn't connect the 2 that Bill jumpered together, because on my board, they are both on the same path. I think that means they are connected, doesn't it?

I guess the other thing I did was to check it for resistance and voltage. I never saw more than 1.55v, which is the battery. In many places on the board I get 1.55v.

I am doing this to learn, as much as to light a light, and I think you can answer these.

thanks,

jeanna

[nievesoliveras]

@timmy

To measure the voltage output place the meter red cable on the collector of the transistor and the black cable to ground.
That should give ac voltage without the LED with the LED could give 2.55v dc or more.

Jesus