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someonebaggy • last Saturday at 4:31 PM • 2 replies • view on HN

Have you tried replacing the LEDs or have you just assumed it's impossible because it's not a bulb?


Replies

ssl-3 • yesterday at 10:05 PM

I know how to solder tiny parts and big parts, and I'm actually pretty good at it. I can generally take complex things apart non-destructively and reassemble them without damage. I can use a meter. I understand how electronic components work, and I even find pleasure in using them. I can safely troubleshoot and repair or replace a power supply.

Fixing an LED fixture is within my wheelhouse. I can repair them.

I just don't want to.

It seems like a much better use of my time and money to just screw in a different light bulb and forget about it.

jerf • last Saturday at 11:44 PM

It depends on the specific fixture.

But then, the problem is, it depends on the specific fixture. They aren't exactly putting "EASY TO REPLACE LEDS" on the box. I can't climb up to the store display model and start hacking away at it to see if I can get to the LEDs, replace them, and reassemble it correctly.

What I saw last time I was in a store where the fixtures were on eye level looked like a lot of glue, one-way tabs, and LED strips of unknown and custom provenance were being used. I'm not really looking for this sort of experience in a lighting fixture. YMMV and more power to you.