Lighting devices for Arduino and other MCUs – A complete overview

Lighting devices for Arduino and other microcontrollers (MCUs) offer a broad range of possibilities for both beginner and advanced developers. Devices like LEDs, LED strips, and even laser diodes can be easily controlled using Arduino boards. Whether you’re building a simple indicator light or a complex, interactive light installation, Arduino makes it remarkably straightforward to bring your project to life. In this blog post, we provide a comprehensive overview of the most common lighting devices used in Arduino projects.

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Lighting devices

LEDs

LEDs, or Light Emitting Diodes, are compact semiconductor devices renowned for their efficiency and longevity. When an electric current is applied, they emit light in a process called electroluminescence. This process is characterized by minimal heat production, making LEDs a cool and energy-saving alternative to traditional light sources. Available in a spectrum of colors, sizes, and intensities, LEDs are incredibly versatile. They are commonly used for a wide range of applications, from basic indicator lights on electronic devices to expansive architectural lighting displays and even in medical devices for therapeutic purposes.

Below an example of some LEDs in different colors. You can buy them very cheaply in assorted kits:

We have multiple tutorials on different LED types and how to control them. If you are beginner start with the simple blinking LED project.

Key considerations

When using LEDs, it’s crucial to remember they are polarized, meaning they have a positive and negative side. Connecting them in reverse can prevent them from working or possibly damage them. Moreover, always use an appropriate current-limiting resistor when interfacing with an Arduino or similar platforms. Overloading the LED can lead to premature failure or reduced lifespan.

RGB LEDs

RGB LEDs integrate red, green, and blue light-emitting diodes within a single unit. This allows for the creation of a broad palette of colors by varying the intensity of each individual color. Beyond the basic spectrum, RGB LEDs can be dimmed or brightened to produce shades ranging from pastels to intense hues. These versatile LEDs are widely used in projects that aim for dynamic mood lighting, color-changing effects, artistic installations, and even in stage lighting due to their ability to create diverse visual atmospheres.

Below you can see the picture of a 4-pin RGB LED. Also have a look at our tutorial on how to control an RGB LED from an Arduino.

Key considerations

Note that RGB LEDs require more control pins than mono-color LEDs, typically 3 or 4. Make sure that each color channel has a suitable current-limiting resistor. Providing improper power can lead to inconsistent color output or even damage.

IR LEDs

IR LEDs (Infrared Light Emitting Diodes) specialize in emitting light in the infrared spectrum, which remains invisible to the naked eye. However, many modern electronic sensors and cameras can detect this light, making it valuable for various applications. From television remote controls to motion-sensing alarms and infrared night vision systems, IR LEDs play a crucial role in modern electronics, providing communication and sensing capabilities.

The picture below shows an IR LED and the corresponding IR Sensor:

We have a tutorial on how to use an IR receiver and remote with an Arduino.

Key considerations

Since IR light is invisible, testing its functionality often requires the aid of cameras or specific IR sensors. Moreover, the material’s interactions with IR light—whether absorption or reflection—may differ from visible light, impacting sensor readings.

Laser LEDs

Laser LEDs stand out due to their coherent and focused light emission. Unlike standard LEDs, which disperse light in multiple directions, laser LEDs concentrate light, producing a narrow and intense beam. This characteristic is invaluable in precision applications. From rangefinders that measure distances accurately to high-speed optical communication systems, barcode readers or simple laser pointers.

The following picture shows a simple module with a Laser emitting diode that can be directly connected to an Arduino.

Key considerations

Direct exposure to laser LEDs can be hazardous, especially if it comes in contact with eyes. You should wear protective eyewear and ensure controlled power levels.

LED Strips

LED strips, as their name suggests, are long, flexible circuits dotted with numerous LEDs. Available in various colors, intensities, and configurations, these lighting devices can be trimmed to fit specific lengths. They’re a favorite for interior designers and hobbyists, since they offer customizable ambient lighting, intricate decorative setups, and even dynamic light displays synchronized with music or other triggers.

Below you can see the section of an LED strip. For more details see our tutorial on how to control an LED strip with an Arduino.

Key considerations

Powering LED strips, especially longer ones, demands a robust power supply that can handle the cumulative current requirement. For longer strips you also may need to inject power at periodic intervals to prevent dimming at the far end.

LED Rings

LED rings offer a unique visual appeal with their circular arrangement of LEDs. Especially popular with addressable LEDs, these lighting devices can create captivating patterns, color transitions, and visual effects. They’re commonly found in innovative clock designs, compass displays, artistic installations, and as accents in smart devices to show status or notifications.

The picture below shows an LED ring, which uses the same LED type (WS2812B) as the LED strip above. You can therefore follow the same tutorial on how to control an LED strip with an Arduino.

Key considerations

LED rings, especially when addressable, follow specific communication protocols. You will need to implement the protocol or preferably use a suitable library. Also note that the memory consumption might be high when implementing complex patterns.

UV LEDs

UV (ultraviolet) lights, while not visible to the human eye, play an important role in various scientific, health, and artistic applications. Emitting radiation in the ultraviolet spectrum, these lights are commonly utilized for purposes like sterilization, fluorescence detection, and even in creative UV art. In Arduino projects, UV LEDs can be incorporated for tasks like building UV exposure boxes, counterfeit currency detectors, or even DIY UV curing stations.

UV LEDs look just like regular clear LEDs (see below) and can be controlled like any other LED.

Key considerations

UV LEDs typically operate at low currents, similar to regular LEDs, making them relatively straightforward to interface with an Arduino. However, when working with UV lights, safety is important, since prolonged exposure can harm eyes and skin. Also, always ensure that the UV LED’s voltage requirement matches the Arduino or any external power supply to avoid potential damage.

Note that there are UV panels that are composed of many UV LEDs (see picture below). These typically run on mains voltage (110V or 220V) and cannot directly connected to an Arduino! You will need a relay for that.

EL Wire

EL Wire, or Electroluminescent Wire, is a thin, flexible wire that emits a uniform light across its length when an alternating current is applied. It’s popular for wearable tech, decorative installations, and situations where a flexible and cool light source is required, such as in costumes or vehicle interiors.

Below you see an EL wire kit with wires of different colors and a battery back with an integrated driver.

Key considerations

EL Wires require special drivers or inverters to provide the alternating current necessary for it to light up. For long wires you need sufficient power to avoid a reduction in brightness towards the end of the wire.

Incandescent Bulbs

Incandescent bulbs are lighting devices that produce light by heating a tungsten filament until it radiates a warm glow. While less energy-efficient than modern LEDs, they are loved for their nostalgic warmth and soft lighting. They’re often used in settings where ambiance is prioritized over efficiency, such as in themed restaurants, retro setups, or even in homes that desire a vintage aesthetic.

Below is a picture of a retro light bulb. You cannot directly control these lights from an Arduino but must use a relay!

Key considerations

Incandescent bulbs operate at much higher voltages than LEDs. This is potentially dangerous! Do not connect your Arduino to high voltages! Ensure electrical isolation of the Arduino and the power for the light bulb be using a relay. Also make sure that you are using the correct voltage for the light bulb (110V vs 220V).

Summary

In this article, we provided an overview of various lighting devices that are commonly used in Arduino projects. We specifically looked at LEDs, a widely popular choice due to their energy efficiency and versatility. Delving deeper, we explored RGB LEDs which offer a mix of red, green, and blue lights, allowing a multitude of color outputs based on intensity control. Infrared LEDs, another variant, emit an invisible light spectrum, making them invaluable for specialized uses like remote controls. We also covered Laser LEDs, a type that stands out for its highly directional and focused light, suitable for tasks like distance measurements.

We showed more flexible lighting devices such as LED strips and rings. Strips, which are adaptable circuits populated with multiple LEDs, can be customized in length, and the rings, often used with addressable LEDs, are renowned for their circular arrangements and individual LED control. Lastly, we touched upon the enduring appeal of incandescent bulbs. While they may be overshadowed by newer technologies in terms of efficiency, they are still sought after for applications needing a warm, vintage glow.