Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cut the USB cable to a suitable length, exposing the red (+5V) and black (ground) wires.
2. Strip about 1 cm of insulation from the red and black wires.
3. Prepare your LED strip or individual LEDs: if using individual LEDs, connect them in series with the resistor at the positive lead.
4. Solder the resistor to the red wire of the USB cable.
5. Connect the other end of the resistor to the positive (+) lead of the LED(s).
6. Connect the black USB wire to the negative (-) lead of the LED(s).
7. Secure all connections with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to prevent short circuits.
8. Test the LED light by plugging the USB into a computer or USB power source; the LEDs should light up.
9. Mount the LED strip or LEDs inside a small enclosure or craft a simple holder from cardboard to direct the light.
10. Use hot glue or tape to fix the LEDs and cable neatly inside the enclosure.
11. Your USB LED desk light is ready to use; plug it into any USB port for instant lighting.