Adding lights

From TheBestCaseScenario

Adding Lights to your Mod

There are several options for adding light effects to a mod. From CCFL's to LEDs, each method has its own pros and cons.

CCFL's (cold cathode lights) and EL-Wire (electro-luminescent wire)require external transformers to get the proper voltage requirements. LEDs use resistors to ensure that the power needs are met. Since resistors are incredibly small (as are LEDs), they can be used successfully in very small areas.

LED's are typically designed to project light in a beam, much like a spotlight. There are methods to diffuse this light however, and they are actually very easy and affordable.

The first method is to use sandpaper (fine grit) to flatten the head of the LED. Once it has been flattened a bit, it will diffuse the light quite a lot. If you sand the entire LED, the effect can be very nice. The second method is to use a piece of frosted/sanded acrylic plastic. If you shine an LED into it, the acrylic will light fairly evenly, giving a nice even glow to the piece.

[edit] Powering Your Lights

As mentioned above, EL-Wire and CCFL's need a transformer to work. They are usually included with the light itself, so don't worry about that. Also, they typically use a molex connection to tap into the PSU in the computer. Placement of the transformer can be done at your discretion, but most people tend to mount them out of sight.

Since LEDs draw very little current, there are a few more options here. You can tap into a USB connector, draw from a status light or fan plug on a motherboard, or tie into a molex connector. Always remember to use the appropriate resistor for your LEDs, since they'll "pop" if you overpower them. By pop, i mean burn out, or in extreme cases explode.

[edit] Tips

Try to conceal your lights in such a way that they are not directly visible, as the light can really be distracting or overpowering. Lights are best used as accents rather than focal points. Edge lit pieces within a case can be much more attractive if the light source itself isnt visible.

A few carefully placed lights will look way better than just stuffing in as many light as possible. Try to backlight pieces and create ambiance rather than flooding the case with light.

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