RGB Tri-Color LED 4-Pin (5mm)

Product Overview

The RGB Tri-Color LED 4-Pin (5mm) combines three primary light channels – red, green, and blue – inside a single 5mm through-hole package. By adjusting the intensity of each channel you can blend colors to produce a wide spectrum for both functional indicators and decorative lighting effects.

Key Features

• Compact 5mm through-hole form factor for easy breadboard and PCB use
• Four-pin arrangement: one common terminal (available as common anode or common cathode) and three independent pins for R, G, and B
• Clear epoxy lens for efficient light output and high brightness
• Smooth color mixing and fading using PWM control
• Durable and versatile for hobby, educational, and professional projects

Package and Pinout

This LED uses a standard 5mm round package with four leads. Pin functions include:

• Common terminal: either common anode or common cathode depending on the version
• Red channel pin: controls red LED inside the package
• Green channel pin: controls green LED inside the package
• Blue channel pin: controls blue LED inside the package

Specifications and Notes

• Type: RGB tri-color LED, 4-pin
• Package: 5mm through-hole with clear epoxy lens
• Drive method: use appropriate current-limiting resistors or constant-current drivers; PWM recommended for brightness and color mixing
• Versions: available in common anode or common cathode configurations

Applications

• DIY hobby electronics and prototyping
• Arduino, ESP32, and Raspberry Pi projects
• Robotics and sensor status LEDs
• Decorative and ambient lighting systems
• Multi-color indicator panels and experimentations in color mixing

Using with Microcontrollers

Control each color channel independently using PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) from microcontrollers like Arduino, ESP32, and Raspberry Pi. PWM lets you adjust brightness per channel to produce smooth fades, transitions, and complex lighting animations.

Wiring and Driving Tips

• Identify the common pin and channel pins before wiring. The longest lead is often the common terminal but verify with a datasheet or tester.
• Always use current-limiting resistors or a constant-current driver for each color channel to prevent overcurrent and extend LED life.
• For 5V systems, resistors in the 220 to 330 ohm range are common starting points, but choose values based on supply voltage and desired brightness.
• Use transistors or MOSFETs to switch channels when driving multiple LEDs or higher currents from microcontroller pins.

Installation and Safety

• Observe polarity when soldering or inserting into a breadboard to avoid damage.
• Limit continuous current to each channel to the LED’s rated value; excessive current will shorten lifespan.
• Allow adequate ventilation and avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures during soldering.

Why Choose this RGB Tri-Color LED 4-Pin (5mm)

Compact, reliable, and easy to integrate, this RGB 5mm LED is a go-to component for students, makers, and professionals who need precise color control in small-scale projects. Its through-hole form factor and clear lens make it suitable for rapid prototyping and final products alike.

Note: Images are for illustration purposes only.