Morse "S" flasher?

[KevinMC]

Hi Mike,

Both Caswell and SubTech

Hi Mike,

Both Caswell and SubTech have electronic switch products that can handle that sort of thing. Conveniently, there's also an article at the back of the most recent SCR which describes how to connect a servo to a leaf switche that will also do exacly what you're looking for.

As for how to modify an LED, here are the photos:

Shorten the leads as needed and if necessary chuck up the LED in a drill to grind off the lip around the base.


Here's how I chuck up LEDs for "lens modification" using a cordless drill and a Dremel tool. Make sure that the drill is turning the "right" way so that the surface you're grinding is moving in the opposite direction to the wheel on the Dremel too.


And here's the modified LED, pre- and post- polishing. Be aware that polishing will direct more light out the top of the lens where unpolished will "leak" light out from the sides, so depending on your application you may choose to skip the last step.

[tabledancer]

Thanks Kevin,
I might have to

Thanks Kevin,
I might have to cut down the rear running lite if I can`t find a smaller LED and I will need to do both the lites on the sail,but for now I don`t plan on touching the beacon "maybe".


TD

[hakkikt]

Kevin,
that's interesting stuff you do

Kevin,
that's interesting stuff you do with that LED! How far back can you cut the body? Meaning, what distance from the metal inside? And will it not affect brightness?

-Harald

[pirate]

Kevin,

Did you see Warren's article

Kevin,

Did you see Warren's article in the March issue of The SubCommittee Report? It's all there on how to make one.

Pete

[KevinMC]

Harald- Although it's very tough

Harald- Although it's very tough to see, there's a little (bond) wire inside the LED which connects the two metallic parts- When you trim back the lens of an LED, you must ensure you don't cut through this bond wire. As a very rough guide I'd suggest not going any closer than 1/32" to the internal metallic structure.

Total brightness of the LED is not affected, but apparent brightness is. In its "as sold" configuration most of the light from the LED is funneled out the top. When you modify the lens some of that light will "escape" out the sides, reducing what you see coming out the top...

If you're interested in seeing the whole presentation Kerry A has it included as a part of the 2007 Sub Regatta DVD.


Pete- Yes, I'm glad to that Warren's article has gone to print. (I can't remember when I reviewed it now!) I think it's great that there's an alternative for the modeler who wishes to do it for himself. (Although if you're cramped for space, my circuit is significantly smaller.)