Construction of the 3-LED Beacon assembly is quite straightforward. Be sure to review proper LED wiring procedures here, here and here before starting, if you need to brush up on your soldering technique. The following construction procedure is also included with each N8042 type Simulator.

When wiring LEDs, proper polarity must be observed. LEDs are “polarity sensitive” and will not function if connected backwards. The N8042 Rotating Beacon Simulator is configured to connect three (3) 20 ma LEDs with device voltages of 2.0 VDC. This covers all of Ngineering’s Micro and Nano yellow LEDs, as well as many yellow LEDs available. The N8042A Simulator is configured to connect three (3) 20 ma LEDs with device voltages of 3.3-3.6 VDC. This covers all of Ngineering’s 2x3, Micro, and Nano white LEDs, as well as many white LEDs available.

Using wire appropriate for the size of the LEDs and its placement in the locomotive, connect a wire to the cathode (C) solder pad on the back of each of 3 LEDs (see Fig. 1).

For N and Z scale, we recommend our Nano LEDs and N5038 #38 magnet wire.

For HO and O scale, we recommend our  Micro LEDs and our N5038 #38 magnet wire

When soldering these wires, make sure they lay flat against the solder pad on each LED as shown and the solder joint is smooth and low (not lumpy). Observe the recommended LED soldering temperature precautions. Remember, a small amount of liquid flux will assist soldering.

The 3 LEDs with wires connected to their cathode solder pads will be positioned standing on end (cathode ends with wires facing downward) in a triangle configuration (120 degrees apart). To facilitate this use a flat piece of styrene or similar plastic with a small hole drilled large enough in diameter to allow the 3 cathode wires to protrude through the hole (a 4th wire will be pushed through the hole for anode connection also). See Fig. 2 below.

When positioning the 3 LEDs, it may be helpful to brace them in position so they will stay aligned properly. When aligned as shown it is very important that the sides of the LEDs DO NOT touch each other. The gold-plated solder pads on these LEDs extend completely to the edges of the LEDs and will short with each other if contact is made. If necessary, a small shim such as a tiny piece of .005” thick styrene can be positioned between adjacent LEDs to prevent contact. Made sure, if a shim is used, that it does not extend up above the top (anode end) of the LEDs. See Fig 3 for correct LED positioning.

Once the 3 LEDs are securely positioned, slide a pre-tinned wire down through the middle of the LEDs and into the hole below. Position the wire so that the tinned portion does not extend below the anode (upper) solder pads. This will ensure that once soldered in place it cannot short to the 3 cathode connections below.

Place a blob of solder on the tip of the soldering iron and let the blob contact the 3 LED anode ends and the inserted wire at the same time. A very small amount of liquid soldering flux applied sparingly to the LED anode solder pad ends and the tinned wire may facilitate a good (and quick) solder bond. Do not overheat the LEDs in this process. See Fig. 4 below.

An alternate method of performing this solder connection would be to “tack” the anode solder pads of the 3 LEDs together individually at the 3 corners with small solder blobs and then join the tinned wire to one of these blobs. This may be an easier approach for some hobbyists.

                                   Figure 4