We have a model train layout with numerous automated animations. We want to add a “lightning strike” from the ceiling to the tabletop, using EL wire. I watched some your videos, but want to be sure I order all of the components we will need to complete this project. I think the bendable white EL wire will work nicely for this application. Just a little confused about the sequencer boards and power connections. Appreciate your help.
Hi Kathy, and thanks for posting.
If all you’re looking to do is light up the EL wire, the easiest way to do that would be to connect it directly to an inverter and apply power. Our [12 volt inverter would work and it even has a flashing feature built in that would make the EL wire blink. You just need a [12 volt power pack (or another 12 volt source) to power the inverter and that will power the EL wire.
We don’t have an adapter to connect the EL wire to the inverter, but two [JST sockets soldered back to back on a bit of proto board or a breadboard would work. You could skip the connectors and solder the EL wire directly to the inverter output as well.
If you wanted to use a sequencer board, that’s possible too, but you’d need to write a bit of software to make that function.](https://www.sparkfun.com/products/9749)](Wall Adapter Power Supply - 12VDC, 600mA (Barrel Jack) - TOL-15313 - SparkFun Electronics)](EL Inverter - 12v - COM-10469 - SparkFun Electronics)
So, if I want to power 2 or more pieces of EL wire (to make multiple branches of the lightning bolt), can I just strip and solder the EL wire to the inverter output? Or do I need jumper wires and connectors, and a breadboard?
Either would work, if you use connectors, a breadboard and some jumper wires, you have the option of easily changing things later. Soldering wires is less easy to alter later if you need too, but it’s doable too.
You could even cut the connectors off the the red and black wires on the EL wire and inverter and just use wire nuts to connect everything together if you wanted too. That’s a little less flexible than a breadboard, but more flexible than soldering, plus it’s pretty durable and shouldn’t come undone accidentally as easy as a breadboard would.
Thanks. Just going to order some stuff and give it a try!!