Blue Charm Beacons BCP-FA20-N

User Manual

Blue Charm Beacons 1.5V LED Flashing Circuit Board

Model: BCP-FA20-N

Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the Blue Charm Beacons 1.5V LED Flashing Circuit Board, Model BCP-FA20-N. This low-voltage astable multivibrator circuit board is designed to flash a red LED using a single 1.5V AA battery, overcoming the typical limitation of flashing LEDs at such low voltage. It is suitable for various hobby projects, signaling, or as a simulated alarm light.

Contents of Package:

  • 1 x Circuit board with components assembled and soldered.
  • 1 x 5mm red LED bulb (not attached to circuit board).

Items Not Included (Required for Operation):

  • 1 x AA battery (1.5V alkaline recommended).
  • Battery holder.
  • Wires for connection.
Blue Charm Beacons 1.5V LED Flashing Circuit Board and detached red LED

Image: The Blue Charm Beacons 1.5V LED Flashing Circuit Board shown with the separate 5mm red LED bulb. The circuit board is blue with various electronic components, and the red LED has two metal leads.

Setup

Follow these steps to set up your LED Flashing Circuit Board:

  1. Attach the LED: The included 5mm red LED bulb is not pre-attached. You can temporarily push its leads into the designated through-holes on the circuit board for a friction fit, or solder them permanently. Alternatively, you can use thin wires to connect the LED to the board, allowing for remote placement of the LED. Ensure the longer lead of the LED (anode) connects to the positive (+) terminal on the board (LED+) and the shorter lead (cathode) connects to the negative (-) terminal (LED-).
  2. Prepare Power Source: Obtain a single 1.5V AA alkaline battery. A battery holder is recommended for secure connection.
  3. Connect Power: Connect the positive (+) terminal of your AA battery (via a battery holder and wires) to the "1.5V" input on the circuit board. Connect the negative (-) terminal of the battery to the "GND" (Ground) input on the circuit board.
Blue Charm Beacons 1.5V LED Flashing Circuit Board connected to an AA battery

Image: The circuit board with the red LED attached and wires connecting it to a Duracell AA battery. This illustrates a typical setup for operation.

Operating Instructions

Once the LED and battery are correctly connected, the red LED will begin to flash automatically. The circuit is designed for continuous operation.

  • Flashing Rate: The red LED will flash approximately 60 times in 27 seconds.
  • Battery Life: A single fresh alkaline AA battery can power the continuous blinking of the red LED for approximately 10 months.
  • Applications: This circuit board can be integrated into various projects, including model displays, dioramas, or as a simulated alarm light for security purposes in vehicles or windows.

Video: A short demonstration of the BCP-FA20-N circuit board with the red LED blinking while connected to an AA battery. This video illustrates the operational blinking pattern.

Maintenance

The Blue Charm Beacons LED Flashing Circuit Board requires minimal maintenance.

  • Battery Replacement: When the LED's brightness diminishes or it stops flashing, replace the AA battery with a new 1.5V alkaline AA battery. Ensure correct polarity when inserting the new battery.
  • Cleaning: Keep the circuit board clean and free from dust and moisture. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning if necessary. Avoid using liquids or abrasive cleaners.
  • Storage: If storing the device for an extended period, remove the AA battery to prevent potential leakage and damage to the circuit.

Troubleshooting

If the LED Flashing Circuit Board is not functioning as expected, consider the following:

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
LED does not flash.
  • Battery is dead or low.
  • Incorrect battery polarity.
  • LED connected incorrectly (polarity).
  • Loose wire connections.
  • Replace with a fresh AA battery.
  • Ensure battery is inserted with correct positive (+) and negative (-) orientation.
  • Verify the longer LED lead (anode) is connected to LED+ and shorter (cathode) to LED-.
  • Check all wire connections for secure contact.
LED flashes dimly or inconsistently.
  • Battery is low.
  • Poor electrical contact.
  • Replace with a fresh AA battery.
  • Ensure all connections are clean and tight.

Specifications

FeatureDetail
Model NumberBCP-FA20-N
Power Requirement1 x 1.5V AA Battery (not included)
Board Dimensions (L x W x H)1.77 x 0.55 x 0.53 inches (45mm x 14mm x 13.5mm)
LED Type5mm Red LED (included, not attached)
Approximate Flashing Rate60 times in 27 seconds
Approximate Battery Life10 months (with fresh alkaline AA battery)
Contents1 x Circuit Board, 1 x 5mm Red LED

Warranty Information

Specific warranty details are not provided with this product. For information regarding warranty or returns, please refer to the retailer's policy where the product was purchased or contact the manufacturer directly.

Support

For technical assistance or further inquiries, please contact Blue Charm LLC, the manufacturer of this product. Contact information may be available through your purchase platform or the official Blue Charm Beacons website.

Manufacturer: Blue Charm LLC

© 2024 Blue Charm Beacons. All rights reserved.

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