[sdiy] led driver from negative power rail

[David G. Dixon]

> Looks like the diode (as drawn) across the transistor's base-emitter is
> the culprit.
> The intent appears to be to protect the BE junction from reverse
> voltage, but it is drawn backwards. Reverse the direction and it should
> work.
> In your case, that diode is probably conducting just before the
> transistor has a chance to turn on.

I concur with Oren.  The LED is also drawn upsidedown.