Hi there. I'm currently working on a project that is a charger for a USB device. One thing I'd like to include is an LED that lights when the connected device is drawing current. (the device is too small to include an ammeter, as much as I'd love to)
My first thought was to include a shunt resistor, and the potential difference across it would trigger a transistor. But that didn't work in the simulator. Wiring the LED in series with the load wouldn't work, this device should handle 500ma.
I've also been wondering about labels. How do you go about labeling projects that demand a more "pro" look? I'd usually just use embossed labels, but looks count on this device. In the past, I've tried clear shipping labels, printed and cut to shape, but even the clear ones are meant for paper and have a matte finish, and they look bad on metal.
My first thought was to include a shunt resistor, and the potential difference across it would trigger a transistor. But that didn't work in the simulator. Wiring the LED in series with the load wouldn't work, this device should handle 500ma.
I've also been wondering about labels. How do you go about labeling projects that demand a more "pro" look? I'd usually just use embossed labels, but looks count on this device. In the past, I've tried clear shipping labels, printed and cut to shape, but even the clear ones are meant for paper and have a matte finish, and they look bad on metal.