What exactly is a BuckPuck?

[Manroon]

My sentiments exactly, a little off topic here and there is fun and understandable, but I think we've reached the stopping point. Lets keep the posts about Buck Pucks from here on out.

[Jenny]

So, yes, getting back to buckpucks...

In my opinion, they're LED saviors.  If there's a voltage spike, or someone puts in the wrong batteries, or whatever, they save the LED from burning out.  You can buy them at most electronics suppliers, and pretty much anywhere you'd buy an LED.

[Master Rel]

Real close with Jenny's answer.

A Buckpuck is a variable power supply that accepts a range of voltages and provides a fixed current.  Some of the Buckpucks can be set for a series of amps (current) and allow a variety of outputs to be driven at different voltages that are required to flash, flicker, or other...as long as the function current draw falls within the set limit.

Most of these smart drivers can handle 4-6+ different loads from the same power source.

Voltage is the power needed to do something...like drive an LED, sound board, or a stepper diode (flash)

Amperage is the endurance needed to continue doing something.

As for the saber technology, the high power LEDs are sensitive to power fluctuations so a secondary power source like a Buckpuck driver provides a constant safe power point.

In LEDs low voltage can cause a loss of function (like a dim blade) but low amperage can cause damage (like burned out diode)...so in the LED market current constant drivers are quite common...and some are quite small.

A great device actually.

[Duff Man]

We've managed to get way far off the topic of buck pucks, and it's still the first page?! I've taught you well. I'M SO PROUD OF YOU GUYS!

But seriously, let's get back on topic before we get in trouble.

Did you have any doubt, it's me .      But Serious add on, when you have to choice between a Resistor or a Buck Puck are you saying go with the Buck Puck to be safe? Even for just straight stunts?       

[Jenny]

But Serious add on, when you have to choice between a Resistor or a Buck Puck are you saying go with the Buck Puck to be safe? Even for just straight stunts?       

I only do queer stunts.

But I'd say yes, stick a buckpuck even in your simple sabre.  It's only going to run you $10-20 over the price of all that stuff alone, and it will save your LED from current spikes.  Some people might say, eh, I'm not going to protect a six dollar LED with a fifteen dollar buckpuck, but think about the time it will take you to replace that LED, after the sabre is all put together.  It's not a straight monetary cost!

[ThreadJack]

[DarthCooper88]

@ threadjack I can relate