just built that kit

http://kitsrus.com/pdf/k89.pdf

How can I do a quick test on it? I am using a 9volt on it but nothing I would assume that at least 1 led would lid up

Also I screwed up I reversed the polarity of the battery and the chips go so hot I don't know if I damaged anything or not

 

Can you take clear photos of both sides of the circuit board? Problems are usually spotted quickly that way. Format them to about 1280x900-ish if that size shows enough detail.

 

With the power supply polarity backwards then the ICs are destroyed.

I made a similar one but used a 9V supply. The IC gets too hot with it connected as shown in the bar mode, with a 12V supply and all LEDs lighted. I added a series resistor to all the LEDs to share the heat.

 

What's the difference between the

LM3914
LM3915
LM3916

I might gonna go get a replacement tomorrow and see if what are the differences between those 3 models

 

Hello,

The difference between the three are:
LM1914 , linear
LM3915 , 3 dB steps
LM3916 , VU meter scale (3 , 2 , 1 , 0 , -1 , -3 , -5 , -7 , - 10 , -20 dB : 3 dB = 10 Volts)

Greetings,
Bertus