The Adafruit 8 x 8 NeoPixel matrix lets you address every single one of the 64 LEDs and set its 24-bit RGB value. Make subtly shaded displays or light up the room at full power, the choice and the responsibility is yours. The matrix has 3 x solder pads, 2 x for power (5V DC) and 1 x for the data input. A matching set of pads has a data out line allowing you to daisy chain the panels for even larger displays. Since the data protocol has strict timing requirements, the panel is best controlled by a real-time microcontroller (MCU) such as the Arduino rather than a Linux board like the Raspberry Pi. Use an MCU with a clock speed of 8MHz or greater (Arduino is 16MHz). Adafruit have published a driver library to save you the trouble and let you get on with designing eye catching displays.Adafruit have a reputation for the quality of their supporting documentation. You will find their Uberguide to NeoPixels and their Best Practices guide invaluable. In particular the Best Practices guide will help you prolong the life of your NeoPixels and help you avoid common mistakes. |
