Anyone know where I can source some fiber optics cable? along with some sort of adapter to secure to a LED bulb that is about 1/8" or 1/4"?

So here's what I'm trying to accomplish; I have a couple of small LED lights that I want to light up in a tight space. I can't put the entire unit of the LED light source to where I want the lights to appear. I would rather not take apart the unit to solder long wires to the LEDs and extend it to the final location; I figured I could use fiber optics strands to accomplish what I want to do.

Something simliar with the mini-maglite fiber optic attachment (link) (link)

...use the fiber to somehow attach to the LED bulb, run the fiber to the location where I want the light to appear, then somehow spread (reflect) the light to about 1" in length (I can't rely on the fiber tip to spread the light, as there's not enough room behind the panel, and would need to bend 90 deg) .

thanks

 

fiber optic technology involves a laser firing tons of 1s and 0s in digital words across long expanses (capable) .... the cable can be tied in a knot and still work.... this cable for the mag-lite.... do they consider that fiber-optics?

 

Fiber is not only for digital applications. You are looking for plastic fiber, the glass is very small and dangerous to work with.
Try the project kits at
http://www.fiberopticproducts.com/Kits.htm
Otherwise an electronics store will carry plastics.

 

I used to sell Fiber optic transmitters and recievers...hubs etc..... I still sell products that interface with fiber.....I did not realize that even though I know that material is fiber and yes it has optical properties.... I guess I think of fiber optics in a slightly different way...... that being said the site pins on my compound bow are considered fiber optic.... so there you go.... I'll stay out of this thread.....I'll just sound ignorant

 

Just buy one of these and cut off the fibers?

eBay: UFO Fiber Optic Light - Novelty Alien U.F.O. Lamp - NEW $3.99 ea.

 

Those are just plastic monofiliment - that might be a better option for you, if you only need the light to travel a very short distance (a few inches). I used to imbed lengths of clear plastic monofiliment in wood and concrete, trim off the excess, and backlight it m- the light only shone through the filiment plastic - it was a neat effect. I'd go with a thicker monofiliment than these lamps though... that or bundle several strands together with silicone.

PS- Monafiliment is used for fishing and I bet if you ask them, they'd send you samples of their lines in various strengths - then just light it (I'd use an LED taped to one end of a strand or a bundle of strands with black electrical tape) and see what thickness will work best. Since the LEDs make almost no heat, you shouldn;t have any issues with the tape or the monafiliment melting, like you probably would with a traditional light, plus you can get VERY high-intensity LEDs in almost any color now... I'd install the line in the hole you want to use and skip off the excess with angle snippers - you should be able ot cut it flush with the dash or whatever surface you're putting the strands into.