Cup Holder LED Wiring Question
 

Hey gang,

I've got my Mazda3 all set up to run two red LED lights into the bottom of the cupholders (looks pretty cool with a bottle of water in there). Trouble is, I am no electrician when it comes to cars. What do I need to do to power these things? Any help would be appreciated!!!

RE: Cup Holder LED Wiring Question
 

Much of it depends on the max voltage of the LEDs you have chosen. A good start would be to use a 7805 voltage regulator. this reduces and stabilizes the voltage to the LEDs to 5v. From there you may need other resisters.
Either way I would also strongly suggest that you install a potentiometer, or at least an off switch. Depending on what is in the cupholder (a clear water bottle for example,) the reflection and glare may be distracting... even annoying @ full strength.
Am I to understand that you've installed them in the bottom of the cupholders so that they will shine on the headliner? I would strongly suggest relocating them to the sides. This will give you less glare into the cockpit, but more reflection in the cupholder itself.
The first pic was taken in daylight so the LEDs do not look as bright as they really are, but it will give you an idea of where I mounted mine.

[IMG]local://upfiles/9133/4364A73C9D414CF5A4EB895AB8FF32FE.jpg[/IMG][IMG]local://upfiles/9133/0ABAF6D75EF544CE8F138E531F6C908E.jpg[/IMG]