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SINDHI MODEL SENIOR

SECONDARY SCHOOL

PHYSICS
INVESTIGATORY PROJECT

TOPIC: LED SERIES AND PARALLEL

CONECTIONS DONE BY:
G.Nithin
J.Thanishkar
V Nitin Kumar
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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all those who
have helped me directly and indirectly I would like to express my
sincere thanks to my Principal Smt. Victoria Dhinakar B.Sc, MA,
B.Ed., my Vice Principal Smt.A Padma MA, B.Ed., and School
Management for providing me with Lab facilities in doing my
investigatory project.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to my Physics teacher

Smt.Malaty Vinayakumar,M.Sc,B.Ed, for accompanying and guiding
me in my project. Her guidance, ideas, suggestions and feedback
have played a great role.

I also thank my friends and fellow students for backing me with

their ideas. I would especially thank my family members for the
love, support and encouragement given.

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Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Objective
3. Theory and Background
3.1 Series and Parallel Circuits
o 3.2. LED Characteristics
4. Materials and Methods
o 4.1 Materials Required

o 4.2 Experimental Setup

5. Procedure
6. Results and Observations
o 6.1 Series Connection Results
o 6.2 Parallel Connection Results
7. Advantages and disadvantages
8. Applications
9. Conclusion

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INTRODUCTION
When dealing with LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes), understanding how
to connect them in series and parallel configurations is crucial for
designing efficient and functional circuits. Here's a brief introduction
to both:
Series Connections
Definition: In a series connection, LEDs are connected end-to-end, so
the current flows through each LED one after another.
How It Works:
• Current Flow: The same current flows through each LED in the
series. This is because in a series circuit, the current remains
constant.
• Voltage: The total voltage drop across the series connection is
the sum of the voltage drops across each LED. For example, if
each LED has a forward voltage of 2V and you have 3 LEDs in
series, the total voltage required is 6V.
Parallel Connections
Definition: In a parallel connection, LEDs are connected across the
same voltage source, so each LED has its own separate path to the
power supply.
How It Works:
• Current Flow: Each LED in a parallel circuit gets its own current
path. The total current supplied by the power source is the sum
of the currents through each LED.
• Voltage: Each LED experiences the same voltage across it as the
supply voltage. For example, if you have a 12V supply and each
LED has a forward voltage of 2V, you need to use currentlimiting
resistors for each LED to ensure they operate correctly.
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OBJECTIVE:
The objective of connecting LEDs in series or parallel
configurations depends on the specific requirements of the
circuit or application. Here's a breakdown of the goals and
considerations for each type of connection:
Series Connections Objective:
1. Uniform Current Flow: Ensure that the same current
flows through each LED. This is important for consistent
brightness and operation.
2. Simplified Power Supply: Use a single power supply that
provides a higher total voltage, simplifying the design
when the supply voltage matches the total forward
voltage of the LEDs.
3. Reduced Complexity: Fewer components are needed in
some cases, as one series resistor can be used to limit
current for all LEDs in the series, depending on the
power supply and LED characteristics.\

Parallel Connections Objective:

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 1. Uniform Voltage Across LEDs: Ensure that each LED
receives the same supply voltage, which is useful when
operating LEDs with varying forward voltages or when
using a constant voltage power supply.
2. Independent Operation: Each LED operates
independently, so if one LED fails, the others continue to
function.
3. Flexibility in Design: Allows for varying numbers of LEDs
and can be designed to handle different current
requirements for each LED.

THEORY AND BACKGROUND

3.1 Series and Parallel Circuits
Series Circuit: Components connected end-to-end. The
same current flows through each component, but the
voltage is divided.
Parallel Circuit: Components connected across common
points. Each component has the same voltage across it, but
the current is divided.
3.2 LED Characteristics Basic Operation of an LED
LED (Light Emitting Diode): An LED is a semiconductor
device that emits light when an electric current passes
through it. Here’s how it works:
1. Semiconductor Junction: LEDs are made from a
semiconductor material that has been doped to create a

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 p-n junction. This junction consists of a p-type (positive)
region and an n-type (negative) region. When these
regions are joined, an electric field is created.
2. Forward Bias: To make an LED emit light, it needs to be
forward-biased. This means a voltage is applied across
the LED in such a way that the positive terminal is
connected to the p-type side and the negative terminal
is connected to the n-type side.
3. Electron-Hole Recombination: When the LED is
forwardbiased, electrons from the n-type region and
holes from the p-type region move towards the junction.
As these charge carriers recombine in the junction, they
release energy in the form of photons. The energy (and
thus the color) of the emitted light depends on the
semiconductor material used and its bandgap.
Voltage Drop
Forward Voltage Drop: The voltage drop across an LED
when it is forward-biased is known as the forward voltage.
This is the minimum voltage required for the LED to start
conducting and emitting light.
• Typical Values: The forward voltage varies depending on
the LED color and material:
o Red LEDs: Approximately 1.8V to 2.2V o Green
LEDs: Approximately 2.0V to 3.0V o Blue and White
LEDs: Approximately 3.0V to 3.5V

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 • Consideration: The forward voltage is a key parameter
when designing LED circuits because it determines how
much voltage is dropped across the LED and how much
voltage is left for other components, such as
currentlimiting resistors.
Current Requirements
Operating Current: LEDs are designed to operate within a
specific range of current to ensure proper brightness and
longevity.
• Typical Operating Current: Commonly, LEDs are operated
at currents ranging from 5mA to 20mA for standard
LEDs. High-power LEDs might operate at currents of
350mA to several amps.
• Maximum Current: Each LED has a maximum rated
current beyond which it can be damaged or have its
lifespan significantly reduced. It’s essential to avoid
exceeding this maximum current to ensure reliable
operation.
Current Limiting: To protect the LED and ensure consistent
performance, a current-limiting resistor or a
currentregulated power supply is often used in conjunction
with the LED. The resistor or driver helps to limit the
current to the desired level, taking into account the supply
voltage and the LED's forward voltage.

4. MATERIALS AND METHODS:

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 For this project, you will need:
• 3xAA or 3xAAA battery holder
• 10 LEDs (same color/type)
• 10 resistors (220 ohms each)
• Power supply (5V DC)
• Breadboard
• Multimeter
• Connecting wires

Methods:

Series Circuit Setup:

• In a series circuit, components are connected end-toend in a
single path. This means the current flows through each
component sequentially, one after the other.

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Here’s what each part represents:
• + and - are the positive and negative terminals of the power
source (like a battery).
• [R1], [R2], and [R3] are resistors or other electrical components.
Characteristics:
1. Current: The same current flows through all
components.
2. Voltage: The total voltage across the series circuit is the
sum of the voltages across each component.
3. Resistance: The total resistance is the sum of the
individual resistances: Rtotal=R1+R2+R3R_{total} = R_1 +
R_2 + R_3Rtotal=R1+R2+R3.

Parallel Circuit
Setup:
• In a parallel circuit, components are connected across
common points or junctions, creating multiple paths for
current to flow.

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4.PROCEDURE:

Series Circuit Setup

1. Connect Components:
o Arrange your resistors (or other components) in a
single path. Connect the first resistor to the positive
terminal of the power source. o Connect the second
resistor to the first one, and so on, until all
components are connected in series. o Finally,
connect the last resistor to the negative terminal of
the power source.
2. Double-Check Connections:
o Ensure all connections are secure and correctly
configured to avoid short circuits or loose contacts.

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Parallel Circuit Setup
1. Connect Components:
o Connect one end of each resistor (or other
components) to the positive terminal of the power
source. o Connect the other end of each resistor to
the negative terminal of the power source. o Each
component should have its own path to the power
source.
2. Double-Check Connections:
o Verify that each component is correctly connected
in parallel and there are no accidental short
circuits.

6. Results and Observations:

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Series Circuit Measurements
1. Measure Voltage Across Each Component:
o Use the multimeter to measure the voltage drop
across each resistor. Connect the multimeter in
parallel with each resistor.
o Record these voltages in your data table.
2. Measure Total Current:
o Set the multimeter to measure current. Connect it
in series with the circuit. o Record the current
flowing through the circuit. The current should be
the same through each resistor
3. Brightness Observations

Parallel Circuit Measurements

1. Measure Voltage Across Each Component:
o Connect the multimeter in parallel with each
resistor to measure the voltage drop. It should be
the same for each resistor.
o Record these voltages.
2. Measure Current Through Each Component:
o Measure the current through each resistor by
placing the multimeter in series with each
component.
o Record these currents.
3. Measure Total Current:
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 o Measure the total current coming from the power
source by placing the multimeter in series with the
entire circuit.
o Record this total current.

For LEDs in series connection:

S.No Voltage Across Each Total Brightness
Component (V) Current Observations
(mA)

1 2V per Red LED (3 20 Bright and uniform.

LEDs, 12V Supply)

2 2V per Red LED (4 15 Slightly dim due to

LEDs, 12V Supply) lower current.

3 3.3V per White LED (3 20 Moderate

LEDs, 12V Supply) brightness.

4 3.3V per White LED (2 20 Bright and

LEDs, 9V Supply) balanced.

5 1.8V per Yellow LED 10 Dim due to

(5 LEDs, 12V Supply) insufficient voltage.

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 For LEDs in parallel connection:

S.No Voltage Current Total Brightness Observations

Across Each Through Current
Component Each (mA)
(V) Component
(mA)

1 2V per Red 20 60 Bright and uniform (3 LEDs).

LED (5V
Supply)
2 3.3V per 20 40 Bright and pure white (2
White LED LEDs).
(5V Supply)
3 2V per Red 20 80 Very bright (4 LEDs).
LED (12V
Supply)
4 3.3V per 15 45 Slightly dim due to lower
White LED current (3 LEDs).
(9V Supply)
5 1.8V per 15 45 Moderate brightness (3
Yellow LED LEDs).
(5V Supply)

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7. ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES:
ADVANTAGES:
1. Energy Efficiency:
• Low Power Consumption: LEDs use significantly less
power compared to incandescent and fluorescent bulbs,
which translates to lower electricity bills and reduced
energy consumption.
• High Efficiency: They convert a larger percentage of
energy into light rather than heat, making them more
efficient overall.
2. Long Lifespan:
• Extended Durability: LEDs typically have a lifespan of
25,000 to 50,000 hours or more, compared to 1,000
hours for incandescent bulbs and around 10,000 hours
for compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). This reduces the
frequency of replacements.
3. Durability:
• Robust Construction: LEDs are solid-state lighting
devices, which makes them more resistant to shocks,

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 vibrations, and external impacts compared to fragile
incandescent and fluorescent bulbs.
4. Instant Lighting:
• No Warm-Up Time: LEDs reach full brightness
immediately when turned on, unlike some other types of
bulbs that require time to warm up.
5. Low Heat Emission:
• Cool to the Touch: LEDs emit very little heat compared to
incandescent bulbs, making them safer to handle and
reducing the load on air conditioning systems.
6. Environmental Benefits:
• No Mercury: LEDs do not contain mercury, unlike CFLs,
which makes them safer to dispose of and better for the
environment.
7. Design Flexibility:
• Compact Size: LEDs are small and versatile, allowing for
innovative and compact lighting designs.
• Dimmability: Many LEDs can be dimmed, providing
flexibility in lighting control.
8. Improved Light Quality:
• Customizable Color Temperature: LEDs come in various
color temperatures, allowing users to choose the right
light quality for their needs, from warm to cool light.

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DISADVANTAGES:
1.Higher Initial Cost:
• Upfront Investment: The initial cost of LEDs is higher
compared to traditional incandescent and CFL bulbs.
However, this cost is offset over time by their energy
savings and longevity.
2.Heat Sensitivity:
• Performance Issues: While LEDs emit less heat than
incandescent bulbs, excessive heat can affect their
performance and lifespan. Proper heat dissipation is
crucial for maintaining LED efficiency.
3. Light Quality Issues:
• Color Rendering: Some LEDs may not render colors as
accurately as incandescent bulbs, although this issue has
been largely addressed with advancements in LED
technology.
4. Directional Lighting:
• Beam Angle: LEDs emit light in a specific direction, which
can be a limitation for applications requiring
omnidirectional light. However, this can be mitigated
with appropriate diffusers and reflectors.
1. Compatibility with Dimmers:
• Dimming Issues: Not all LEDs are compatible with
existing dimmer switches. Special dimmable LED models
and compatible dimmers may be required.
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6. Light Pollution:
• Over-illumination: The intensity and direction of LED
lighting can contribute to light pollution if not properly
managed, impacting night sky visibility and ecosystems.
7. Color Shifting:
• Performance Over Time: LEDs can experience color
shifting as they age, where the color of the light may
change over time, although high-quality LEDs minimize
this effect.
8. Electronic Interference:
• Interference Issues: Some LED drivers can produce
electromagnetic interference, potentially affecting other
electronic devices. This is generally less of a concern
with modern, well-designed LEDs.

8.APPLICATIONS:
• Series Circuits: Useful in low-power applications where
maintaining a constant current is essential and where
slight reductions in brightness are acceptable.
• Parallel Circuits: Ideal for high-power lighting systems,
decorative lighting, and situations where consistent
brightness is required. They are also preferred in circuits
where individual LED failures should not affect the
overall operation.

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9.CONCLUSION:

In this investigatory project, we explored the electrical

behavior of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) when connected in
series and parallel circuits. Our study aimed to understand
how these configurations affect voltage distribution, current
flow, and LED brightness.
Key Findings:
1. Series Connections:
o In a series circuit, LEDs share the total voltage
supplied by the power source. Consequently, the
voltage across each LED is lower than the supply
voltage, leading to reduced brightness. o The current
flowing through each LED in a series connection is the
same, which is determined by the total resistance of
the circuit. As a result, if one LED fails or is removed,
the entire circuit is interrupted, causing all LEDs to go
out.
2. Parallel Connections:
o In a parallel circuit, each LED receives the full
voltage of the power source. This allows each LED to
operate at its optimal brightness, as they are not
sharing the voltage. o The current through each LED in
a parallel connection is determined by its own
resistance and the total current supplied by the
power source is the sum of the currents through each
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 LED. This configuration is more resilient; if one LED
fails, the remaining LEDs continue to operate.
Further investigation could include exploring different types of LEDs
(e.g., color variations, high-power LEDs) and their performance in
various circuit configurations. Additionally, examining the impact of
different resistor values and power supplies on LED behavior could
provide deeper insights into optimizing LED circuits for specific
applications.

In conclusion, understanding the differences between series and parallel

LED connections allows for more effective design and implementation in
various electronic and lighting applications. The findings from this
project provide valuable insights into how circuit design impacts LED
performance and reliability.

Implications:
• Brightness and Efficiency: LEDs connected in parallel
generally exhibit brighter illumination compared to
those connected in series. This is because each LED in a
parallel circuit operates at its rated voltage, ensuring
optimal brightness and efficiency.
• Circuit Reliability: Parallel connections provide better
reliability for applications where continuous illumination
is crucial. In contrast, series connections can be suitable
for applications where lower brightness is acceptable
and simplicity is desired.

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