Why build an RGB-LED tester?

To identify defective LEDs early and avoid the difficulty of desoldering four-lead components later.

How long does it take to build this project?

You can build this on a breadboard in less than 15 minutes.

What microcontrollers are compatible with this circuit?

The circuit works with PIC16F627, 628A, or 648A microcontrollers.

Can I use batteries instead of a power supply?

Yes, you can use 4x NiMH batteries in a holder as an alternative to a 5V regulated power supply.

How many resistors are required for the project?

The project requires one 20k ohm resistor, three 220 ohm resistors, three 470 ohm resistors, and three 120 ohm resistors.

Quick & Easy RGB-LED Tester using PIC16F627 microcontroller

Quick & Easy RGB-LED Tester Have you ever built a project with a lot of LEDs, and found out that one of the LEDs was defective?

By Ibrar Ayyub

PublishedMarch 31, 2017

Summary of Quick & Easy RGB-LED Tester using PIC16F627 microcontroller

This article describes a quick, 15-minute RGB-LED tester built on a breadboard using a PIC microcontroller. It helps identify defective LEDs before soldering, avoiding the difficulty of desoldering four-lead components. The project requires basic electronic parts and a programmer to load firmware onto the chip.

Parts used in the Quick & Easy RGB-LED Tester:

1x Breadboard (small one is fine)
1x PIC16F627, 628A or 648A
1x 0.1 uF capacitor
1x 20 k ohm resistor
3x 220 ohm resistors
3x 470 ohm resistors
3x 120 ohm resistors
Some jumper wires
1x 5V regulated power supply or 4x NiMH batteries in a holder

Quick & Easy RGB-LED Tester

Have you ever built a project with a lot of LEDs, and found out that one of the LEDs was defective? Although it's somewhat rare, there are some defective LEDs when you go through hundreds of them. I found that RGB-LED have high defect rate, most likely due to the fact that each of them has three LEDs (R,G,B) in them.

I have had a few situations where one of the RGB LEDs was not working fully, and having to desolder to remove it. Here because RGB LEDs have four leads instead of two, desoldering is difficult.

So here's the quick & easy RGB-LED test that I build on a breadboard. You can build this in less than 15 minutes and save a big hassle later!

Putting it together

Here's the part list:

1x Breadboard (small one is fine)
1x PIC16F627, 628A or 648A
1x 0.1 uF capacitor
1x 20 k ohm resistor
3x 220 ohm resistors
3x 470 ohm resistors
3x 120 ohm resistors
some jumper wires
1x 5V regulated power supply or 4x NiMH batteries in a holder

You'll also need a programmer capable of programming PIC microcontrollers, such as MPLAB ICD or PICKit.

As you can see, the circuit & construction is very simple. Once you have the parts, just put them on a breadboard in 5 minutes! Use the picture as the reference.

Then fire up your programmer and you are ready to go.

For more detail: Quick & Easy RGB-LED Tester using PIC16F627 microcontroller

Why build an RGB-LED tester?
To identify defective LEDs early and avoid the difficulty of desoldering four-lead components later.
How long does it take to build this project?
You can build this on a breadboard in less than 15 minutes.
What microcontrollers are compatible with this circuit?
The circuit works with PIC16F627, 628A, or 648A microcontrollers.
Can I use batteries instead of a power supply?
Yes, you can use 4x NiMH batteries in a holder as an alternative to a 5V regulated power supply.
What tools are needed to program the microcontroller?
You need a programmer capable of programming PIC microcontrollers, such as MPLAB ICD or PICKit.
How many resistors are required for the project?
The project requires one 20k ohm resistor, three 220 ohm resistors, three 470 ohm resistors, and three 120 ohm resistors.

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Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough...