Experiment 5 - LEDs in a Series Circuit

What do you need to consider in a series circuit of several diodes? What are its benefits over the parallel circuit?

In the circuit shown you have three LEDs arranged in a series circuit. This has consequences for the current-limiting resistor, which you need to recalculate ...

R_v = ( U₀ - 3 × U_LED ) ÷ I

     = ( 9 V - 3 × 2.0 V ) ÷ 0.015 A

     = 200 Ω

The next highest resistor standard value is 220 Ω.

Three LEDs in a series circuit. (Enlarge)

Circuit diagram of three LEDs in a series circuit.

All three LEDs are lit, the power consumed is the same as for a single LED! 

However also a series circuit of LEDs has restrictions...