LEDs grounding out

Discussion in 'LED Aquarium Lighting' started by Kevin_E, Feb 28, 2014.

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  1. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

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    I know why. The steel screws I am using to mount the star plates are making contact with the current and grounding the LEDs out.

    Will aluminum screws prevent that from happening?
     
    Kevin_E, Feb 28, 2014
    Kevin_E, Feb 28, 2014
    #1

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  2. sailorguy

    sailorguy Torch Coral

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    Nope,aluminum is a conductor.Maybe you can find some plastic ones or plastic washers to insulate the steel ones.
     
    Last edited: Feb 28, 2014
    sailorguy, Feb 28, 2014
    sailorguy, Feb 28, 2014
    #2
  3. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

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    Well they are sitting on an aluminum heatsink, on an aluminum starboard. What am I missing here?

    How do people typically screw these things down? They're soled drilled and tapped.
     
    Last edited: Feb 28, 2014
    Kevin_E, Feb 28, 2014
    Kevin_E, Feb 28, 2014
    #3
  4. evolved

    evolved Wrasse Freak

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    You need plastic washer under the heads of the screws.

    The bottom side of the star doesn't matter because the electrical contacts are only printed on the top side.
     
    evolved, Feb 28, 2014
    evolved, Feb 28, 2014
    #4
  5. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

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    Sounds like a plan guys! I'll pick up some plastic washers on the way home.

    Thanks a bunch.
     
    Kevin_E, Feb 28, 2014
    Kevin_E, Feb 28, 2014
    #5