Which end is which?

I know one end has the white stripe, but which is it?

Thanks,

Pat...

don't know how to describe it properly, but thats the end goes AWAY from your switch etc

the stripe doesn't let current through it

(I believe!!!!!)

Steve

The end with the stripe is the cathode. In terms of conventional current flow (i.e. positive to negative), current will flow from the non-striped end to the striped end, but not the other way.

Another way to think about it is the cathode (striped end) must be at a lower voltage than the anode in order for the diode to conduct.

Assuming there are no other electronics involved in your particular application, try it both ways.One will work the other wont!

Cheers all.

Now see here for the problem:

http://locostbuilders.co.uk/viewthread.php?tid=67037

Pat...