In this project, I will be constructing a Universal Reading Light. I call it "Universal" as it can be built with several options, including two different mounting options; flush and Shadow Box. For a comprehensive set of build instructions, please download them from the PDF icon to the right. The project documentation consists of the PDF file, this webpage, and associated videos.

I wanted to replace the light fixture over my recliner in the RV as it was a bit difficult to turn on and off (at least for my height-challenged wife). You had to lean over the recliner to reach the on-off switch, and the light was not pin-point like the typical reading light.

The RV uses a Facon "Pancake" style fixture (DDS01-008), and my goal was to replace that fixture with one with the same mounting hole location (or larger), so the holes would not show.

I had considered using the AP-Products 005-06001037 Europa Aircraft-style dual reading light that I used in my motorhome cab console project, but the size was too small to cover up the existing holes. And I did want to add a dimmer and RF remote control (On-Off), and there was no convenient location in the fixture for these items.

I then ran across several tiny LED light fixtures that would work for a spotlight, and decided custom designing a base to mount them on was the way to go... and thus, this project was conceived.

For the ECONOMY version, do not use the Bill of Materials shown here. Since the Economy version is so different, there is a Bill of Materials in the document for that version only. This is done so that you do not unnecessarily order the incorrect items.

All of the above fixtures have been tested with the LED Supply dimmer/driver. The modifications are shown below:

The light plate, if ordered from the template LP-1 from my Templates Page, will have four 0.19Dia holes for using up to number 10 screws. If the shadowbox version is built, you will need to enlarge those holes to 19/64" Dia. for the standoffs to fit. This can either be done with a drill or reaming tool. Alternatively, you may modify the LP-1 plate template after downloading to the proper hole size for your mounting configuration.

Construction details are found in the documentation PDF you can download from the link above, or to the right. While the project itself is not complicated, the several available options might be a bit confusing at first - so I recommended reading everything, including the PDF, the webpages for this project and the videos prior to ordering or building anything.

Then read everything again!

Since the Halo is intended to be a night-light, it should be dimmed. The chart below provides optional values for the current limiting resistor required for different brightness. Select the resistor desired (12 are required). If in doubt, use 4.7K Ohm resistors that I used.

After a few months of use, the light just did not look asthetic. So we decided to ditch the Halo option and to add a "wood " base, actually 3D printed from PLA Filament having 20% wood fibers. The wood filament does indeed look like wood, and can be sanded and stained. However, only sand by hand as machine sanders can melt the plastic. And the material will only accept about one coat of stain per 24hr period. The good news though is the result is a shiny wood look without having to apply any varnish (which you will want to do if you want a semi-gloss look).

This option is not compatible with the Halo option so it must be removed. Also, no need to enlarge the mounting holes in the aluminum panel. The .STL file template to 3D print the base can be found HERE.