I think it's just a general sort-of thing. If for whatever reason, a particular LED would have a breakdown voltage that is the same, or very close to the normal operating voltage (12V + resistor) of the LED, the LED would probably be thermally damaged. Not that this is a likely scenario, but I guess it's possible. To my knowledge, zener diodes are the only kind that aren't damaged by operating in the breakdown region. Matt #1604 --- In dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx, doctorDHD@xxxx wrote: > Can anyone explain why connecting an LED light in reverse would do anything > other than not light up the lamp? > > In my experience with plain LEDs they act as a Diode, in that they conduct > only in one direction. I have hooked up many an LED win reverse without ANY > problem. As a matter of fact, they make dual LEDs with each one connected > opposite the other so you can detect which way the current is flowing. > > Is there something else in an automotive LED replacement other than LED(s) > and a resistor? > > Dave & 6530 > > > > > > "Just Say NO, to the COUCH POTATO!"® > > To see how go to _www.tvpedaler.com_ (http://www.tvpedaler.com/) > > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] To address comments privately to the moderating team, please address: moderators@xxxxxxxxxxx For more info on the list, tech articles, cars for sale see www.dmcnews.com To search the archives or view files, log in at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dmcnews Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dmcnews/ <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: dmcnews-unsubscribe@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/