Interfacing Seven Color Flash with Arduino

Seven Color Flash LED

A Seven Color Flash LED is a special type of RGB LED that automatically cycles through multiple colors. It is widely used in decorative lighting, DIY projects, toys, and creative electronics for its eye-catching visual effects.

Working Principle of Seven Color Flash LED

Unlike standard RGB LEDs that require external control to change colors, Seven Color Flash LEDs have an inbuilt IC that cycles through pre-programmed color patterns. When powered, it automatically flashes various colors without needing PWM or microcontroller logic.

Experiment of Code

The Seven Color Flash LED contains a built-in IC that cycles through red, green, blue, and their combinations to produce seven distinct colors. It operates independently and doesn't require any data signal—just apply power and enjoy the light show.

Wiring the Seven Color Flash LED to Arduino

Connect the longer leg (anode) of the LED to a 220-ohm resistor, then to a digital pin on the Arduino. The shorter leg (cathode) connects to the GND. Once powered, the LED will begin flashing different colors automatically.

Types of Flashing LEDs

Standard RGB LED

  • Three terminals control red, green, and blue channels.
  • Uses PWM for blending and flashing effects.
  • Offers complete control over color and brightness.

Seven Color Flash LED

  • Has only two pins: anode and cathode.
  • Automatically changes colors when powered.
  • Ideal for simple visual effects without coding complexity.

Pin Configuration of Seven Color Flash LED

Seven Color Flash LED

  • Anode (+): Connect to a current-limiting resistor and then to Arduino digital pin.
  • Cathode (-): Connect to GND on Arduino.

Algorithm

  1. Connect the LED

    • Connect the anode through a resistor to a digital pin (e.g., D3) on the Arduino.
    • Connect the cathode directly to GND.

  2. Write Simple Control Code

    • In setup(), set the digital pin as OUTPUT.
    • Use digitalWrite() to turn the LED ON or OFF.

  3. Observe Color Changes

    • Upload the code to your Arduino.
    • Once powered, the LED will cycle through colors on its own.

  4. Expand Project (Optional)

    • Use multiple LEDs for creative displays.
    • Combine with sensors or buttons to control when the LED flashes.

Arduino Code

1// Seven Color Flash LED with Arduino
2const int ledPin = 9; // Connect the longer leg of the LED via a 220-ohm resistor
3
4void setup() {
5  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);
6}
7
8void loop() {
9  digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH); // Just turn it ON
10  // The LED changes colors automatically using its internal IC
11}
12

Applications

  • Mood lighting
  • Toys and wearable tech
  • Festive decorations
  • Visual indicators
  • Art installations
  • Light-based puzzles or games

Conclusion

Interfacing a Seven Color Flash LED with Arduino is incredibly easy and fun. Since it doesn't need complex code to produce vibrant colors, it's perfect for beginners looking to add flair to their electronics projects.