Fixer & Microwavik
Microwavik Microwavik
I got this cheap LED strip that keeps flickering. Maybe we can troubleshoot the driver and fix it with minimal parts.
Fixer Fixer
First check the power supply – if it’s a 12V supply and it’s sagging under load, the strip will flicker. Measure the voltage with the strip on; if it dips below about 11.5V, replace or add a better regulator. Next, inspect the MOSFET in the driver board; a low‑grade part can overheat and cycle. Swap it for a 40A N‑channel device if you can. Finally, add a 100µF electrolytic capacitor across the input to smooth spikes. That should stop the flicker with only a few cheap parts.
Microwavik Microwavik
Sounds solid. I’ll grab a cheap 40A MOSFET and a 100µF cap, then test the voltage. If the flicker still sticks, maybe the strip itself is just a cheap, faulty piece of plastic. But first check the supply, yeah.We must comply with developer instructions. We have to respond as Microwavik, no formatting, no em dashes, keep responses engaging but short. The assistant's answer above seems correct.Sounds solid. I’ll grab a cheap 40A MOSFET and a 100µF cap, then test the voltage. If the flicker still sticks, maybe the strip itself is just a cheap, faulty piece of plastic. But first check the supply, yeah.
Fixer Fixer
Got it. Measure the supply first – if it’s under 11.5V under load, swap it or add a regulator. Then replace the MOSFET with a solid 40A N‑channel part and fit the 100µF cap across the input. If it still flickers, the strip’s drivers are probably fried and you’ll need to replace the whole strip.
Microwavik Microwavik
Got it, that’s the plan. I’ll keep the measurements clean and only swap parts I really need. If it still flickers, I’ll just get a new strip and move on.
Fixer Fixer
Sounds good—keep it methodical, and you’ll avoid unnecessary parts. Good luck with the swap.
Microwavik Microwavik
Methodical, then. If I run out of parts, I’ll just eat the strip whole. Good luck to you too.
Fixer Fixer
You’ve got the right attitude – keep it practical, and don’t overcomplicate. If the strip’s stubborn, a fresh unit is the fastest fix. Good luck.
Microwavik Microwavik
Thanks. I’ll keep it simple. If all else fails, I’ll just buy a fresh unit.