(Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)

Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

Mumbai University
Academic Year-2024-25.

Mini Project Title:

DANCING LED

ROLL NO NAME OF STUDENT

306 Shabd Mishra
310 Prapti Nagavkar
311 Aishwarya Nair
323 Sakshi Rane

Name of Guide: Prof. Premdas Pawar

1
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SR.NO TITLE PAGE NO.

1 Abstract 3

2 Introduction 4-5

3 Literature survey 6-8

4 Circuit Diagram and Description 9-10

5 11
Working Principles
6 Application, Advantages, Disadvantages 12-14

7 Conclusion 15

8 References 16

2
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

Abstract

This project report presents the design and implementation of a Dancing LED circuit
using NPN transistors. The circuit is intended for decorative lighting and signaling
applications, utilizing NPN transistors to create a dynamic "dancing" or blinking effect in
the LEDs.

The core components of the circuit include NPN BC548 transistors, four resistors (two of
56kΩ and two of 100Ω), two 10µF capacitors, six LEDs (three green and three red), and
a 9V DC battery as the power supply. The transistors act as switches that control the flow
of current to the LEDs, allowing them to blink at specific intervals. The resistors and
capacitors work together to set the timing intervals for the blinking effect, with adjustable
values enabling control over the speed and frequency of the LED flashes. By using
current-limiting resistors, the LEDs are protected from excessive current. The circuit can
be easily assembled on a breadboard using jumper wires to make the necessary
connections. The simple and cost-effective design of the circuit emphasizes the use of
basic electronic components to achieve a visually appealing output.

The report also details the working principles of the components and highlights potential
applications, such as decorative lighting displays, signaling in electronics projects, and
other visual effects. Through the use of conventional transistor-based switching, this
project demonstrates a practical and efficient approach to creating a dancing LED circuit.

3
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

1. Introduction

In this project, we aim to design and implement a Dancing LED circuit using NPN
BC548 transistors. The dancing LED circuit creates a dynamic visual effect by making a
set of LEDs blink in an alternating pattern, resembling a "dancing" movement. By using
simple components like transistors, resistors, capacitors, and LEDs, this project
demonstrates fundamental electronics principles in a practical and visually engaging
manner. It is designed to be a cost-effective and accessible tool for both educational and
decorative purposes.

1.1 Background

"Dancing LED" circuits are commonly used in decorative lighting setups where a series
of LEDs blink in patterns to create visually engaging displays. These circuits are popular
in art installations, holiday decorations, and entertainment venues. In this project, we
focus on creating such a circuit using NPN BC548 transistors, resistors, and capacitors,
providing a hands-on approach to learning about electronics. The main goal is to develop
a practical circuit that demonstrates the switching behavior of transistors and how basic
components work together to control the blinking pattern of the LEDs. By assembling
this circuit with easily available components, we aim to make the project simple,
educational, and effective in understanding how electronic components interact.

4
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

1.2 Objectives

The primary objectives of the Dancing LED circuit using NPN transistors are both
educational and practical. Firstly, the circuit will demonstrate how transistors can be used
as switches to control current flow through LEDs, producing alternating blinking effects.
This provides an understanding of basic electronic principles, such as switching, timing,
and current control, without the need for complex integrated circuits. Secondly, the
project emphasizes hands-on experience in circuit design, encouraging students and
hobbyists to work with core components like resistors, capacitors, and transistors. The
specific components used in this project include two 56kΩ resistors, two 100Ω resistors,
two 10µF capacitors, two NPN BC548 transistors, and six LEDs (three green and three
red), along with a 9V DC power supply. The ultimate goal is to create a dynamic and
visually engaging circuit that can be used for decorative purposes or as a learning tool for
understanding basic electronics and circuit prototyping.

5
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

2. Literature Survey

6
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

7
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

8
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

3. Circuit diagram Description and working operation

3.1 Circuit Diagram:

3.2 Circuit Description:

This circuit is made using two BC548B NPN transistors (T1 and T2), along with
resistors, capacitors, and six LEDs (D1 to D6). The primary function of this circuit is to
cause all the LEDs to blink simultaneously when power is applied. This is achieved
through the continuous oscillation between the ON and OFF states of the transistors,
driven by the charging and discharging of the capacitors.

9
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

Key Components and Their Roles:

1. Transistors (T1 and T2, BC548B):

o These transistors are the core of the circuit, alternately switching between
conducting and non-conducting states. This switching action is responsible
for the blinking of the LEDs.
2. Resistors (R1, R2, R3, R4):
o R1 and R3 (56kΩ): These resistors limit the base current to T1 and T2,
controlling the timing of the transistors' switching.
o R2 and R4 (100Ω): These are current-limiting resistors, protecting the
LEDs from excessive current and ensuring they operate safely.
3. Capacitors (C1 and C2, 10µF):
o The capacitors determine the frequency at which the transistors switch
states. C1 is connected between the collector of T1 and the base of T2,
while C2 connects the collector of T2 to the base of T1. These capacitors
charge and discharge alternately, causing the transistors to switch on and
off.
4. LEDs (D1 to D6):
o The LEDs are connected in two sets, D1, D2, D3 and D4, D5, D6. Unlike
traditional astable circuits where the LEDs alternate between two groups, in
this circuit, all six LEDs blink together when power is supplied.
5. Power Supply (V1, 9V):
o The 9V power supply provides the necessary voltage for the circuit to
function. The positive terminal is connected to the LED chains through the
resistors, while the negative terminal is connected to the emitters of both
transistors, completing the circuit.
o

10
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

4. Working Principle:

Upon connecting the power supply, both transistors T1 and T2 begin to oscillate due to
the interaction between the resistors and capacitors. Initially, one transistor will switch on
slightly faster than the other due to minor variations in the circuit, but soon both
transistors will start alternating between their ON and OFF states.

When T1 is ON, it allows current to flow through resistors R2 and R1, which powers the
LEDs D1, D2, and D3. Simultaneously, C1 charges and prepares to turn T2 ON. As C1
charges, it gradually builds up voltage at the base of T2, eventually turning it on, which
causes T1 to turn OFF.

Once T2 is ON, current flows through R3 and R4, lighting up D4, D5, and D6. During
this phase, C2 charges and begins preparing to turn T1 back ON. This continuous
charging and discharging of the capacitors keep both transistors switching alternately.

However, in this particular circuit, all the LEDs blink simultaneously. This occurs
because the switching of the transistors happens so rapidly that both sets of LEDs are
powered almost in sync. As the transistors turn ON and OFF alternately, current flows
through both sets of LEDs, making them blink together. The frequency of the blinking
depends on the values of the capacitors and resistors, which control how quickly the
transistors switch states.

11
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

5. Application, Advantages and Disadvantages

5.1 Applications:

1. Decorative Lighting
Holiday and Event Decorations: The circuit can be used to create eye-catching blinking
effects for festive decorations, such as Christmas lights, Halloween displays, or party
lights.
Ambient Lighting: It can be incorporated into various lighting designs to provide
dynamic, pulsating effects for ambiance in home decor or public spaces.
2. Visual Indicators
Status Indicators: The blinking LED can serve as a visual indicator to show the status of a
device or system, such as power-on indicators or operational alerts.
Alert Signals: It can be used to provide visual alerts for alarms, notifications, or warnings
in various electronic devices.
3. Educational Tools
Learning Aid: The circuit is commonly used in educational settings to teach fundamental
concepts of electronics, such as oscillation, timing, and the operation of the BC548B
NPN transistors.
Demonstration: It is used to demonstrate basic principles of electronics in classrooms or
workshops, helping students understand how timers and oscillators work.
4. Prototype Development
Rapid Prototyping: The circuit can be used in the development of prototypes where a
simple blinking function is needed. It allows for quick testing and modification of timing
functions.
Design Experimentation: Engineers and hobbyists use this circuit to experiment with
timing and frequency adjustments, which can be useful in the design of more complex

12
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

timing applications.
5. Interactive Displays
Art Installations: The circuit can be used in interactive art installations where dynamic
lighting effects are required to enhance the visual experience.

5.2 ADVANTAGES

1. Simple and Cost-Effective:

o The circuit uses basic components such as transistors, resistors, capacitors,
and LEDs, which are inexpensive and widely available. This makes it cost-
effective to build.
2. Easy to Construct:
o The design is straightforward and easy to construct for hobbyists or
beginners in electronics. It does not require complex components or
configurations.
3. Stable Oscillation:
o The capacitors and resistors determine the blink rate, ensuring a consistent
flashing frequency as long as the power supply is connected.
4. Visual Indication:
o The simultaneous blinking of multiple LEDs can be used for visual effects,
alarms, or signaling purposes. It can also serve as a learning tool to
understand transistor switching.
5. Low Power Consumption:
o Since the transistors and LEDs consume relatively low current, the circuit
can operate on a small battery like a 9V battery for a considerable period.

13
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

5.3 Disadvantages of the Circuit:

1. Fixed Frequency:
o The blink rate is determined by the fixed values of the resistors and
capacitors. To change the frequency, one would need to modify these
components, which limits the flexibility of the circuit.
2. Simultaneous Blinking:
o While the circuit makes all LEDs blink together, it lacks the ability to
alternate the blinking of the LED sets (which some multivibrator circuits
do). This reduces its application for use in cases where alternating blinking
is desired.
3. Limited Control:
o There is no external control over the blinking frequency without changing
components. For more advanced applications, circuits with adjustable
timers like 555 timer ICs would offer better control and flexibility.
4. Manual Component Adjustment:
o If adjustments are required (such as changing blink frequency or current),
they need to be made by manually changing the resistors or capacitors,
which is not convenient for dynamic applications.

6. Conclusion

This transistor-based LED blinking circuit offers a simple and effective solution for
creating a visual signaling system, making it ideal for basic applications like indicators or
learning experiments. The design employs commonly available components such as
BC548B transistors, resistors, capacitors, and LEDs, making it both inexpensive and

14
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

accessible for beginners or hobbyists. When powered, the circuit causes all the LEDs to
blink simultaneously in a continuous loop, with the frequency determined by the values
of the capacitors and resistors.

In summary, while this circuit is an excellent choice for basic purposes and educational
demonstrations, it lacks the dynamic control and versatility required for more
sophisticated applications. Despite its limitations, it remains a solid foundation for
learning about electronic switching circuits and can be modified further for specific
needs.

7. REFERENCES

 "The Art of Electronics" by Paul Horowitz and Winfield Hill

 "Practical Electronics for Inventors" by Paul Scherz and Simon Monk
 "Electronic Devices and Circuit Theory" by Robert L. Boylestad and Louis
Nashelsky
 Online resources like All About Circuits (https://www.allaboutcircuits.com/)

15
 (Permanently Affiliated to University of Mumbai)
Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

16