I was wondering if anyone has even used the fiber optic wire

[Blackwolf]

Hi all the other day I was on ebay looking for models and so on and I found this one ad for the fiber optic light wire for doing the lights on models and I thought I would ask if anyone here has tried it out or not. I thought that it was a good deal for 100' roll and he does sell it in a bigger rolls as well if any one want the seller's name let me know cause I add him onto my seller list.

[Chief Joseph]

I've built a lot of science fiction models over the years and I've used fiber optics many times. I haven't used any in an auto model yet, but I have some ideas. It's very easy to use.

[MikeyB08]

What would one use to power the fiber optics? Just a battery placed in the trunk area?

[Custom Hearse]

I bought a friends model collection, and it included 9 volt battery plugs, LED lights in different colors, fiber optic filliments, and some other odds and ends. I've been wondering how myself to use them to add working lights to models, and wouldn't mind seeing how it's done.

[Kaleb]

Looks like I need to get back on my chargum. I had worked with fiber optic on a ride with a mix of LEDs. You have many options with fiber optic down to side marker lights.

[Ace-Garageguy]

Once again, much info is already here if you look for it.

http://www.modelcarsmag.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=43625

...and here: http://www.modelcarsmag.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=36223

There are also many fine how-tos on the interweb... http://www.starshipmodeler.net/talk/viewtopic.php?t=82731&sid=8db7716e6cd412e6236cb48d03582973

..and here...http://www.starwarsmodels.com/techelec.html

Edited April 29, 2013 by Ace-Garageguy

[Ben]

Fibre Optics are just a "pathway" for transfering light. An actual light source such as an incandecent bulb or LED must be placed in an area where it can't be seen when lit. From there, you place one end of the Fibre Optic strand next to the light and run the strand to it's final location. The light will only shine at the end or "tip" of the Fibre Optic. You can even "mushroom" the end of a Fibre Optic strand to create a larger circle of light by heating a flat piece of metal and using the "Swage" technique. The ends can be painted as well to simulate green backlit guages, red warning lights etc.

[Custom Hearse]

Thanks Bill!!! Those links will definitely come in handy! I completely appreciate you posting those!!!

[Edsel-Dan]

I built the Fiber-Optic version of AMT/MPC's Star Wars Star Destroyer.

Punched so many holes in the hull, I needed more optics.

Started drilling the 1701D for them too, and the Mid-scale 3 ship TOS Trek set for it too.

It is Not Wire. it is more like Monofiloment.

(Think Clear Fishing line.)

And, Yes, You still need a Light source.

I have an unbuilt DS9 to get to someday!

Edited April 30, 2013 by Edsel-Dan