RGB LED Array accessory for Eval type header
Rayman
Posts: 16,037
Found these lower current version of WS2812 RGB LEDs in 2020 size:
https://www.smart-prototyping.com/WS2812-2020-Addressable-Fullcolor-RGB-LED?search=WS2812-2020
Seems some places are calling the low current version WS2812C.
WS2812C is 5 mA per led whereas WS2812B is 12 mA per led.
This is still a ton of current for an 8x8 array if all turned on.
It would likely exceed the 500 mA limit from the regular single USB to FT231X 5V power.
However, seems most board have a second USB source for power or one main high current supply. This should probably be enough.
Or, could dial down max brightness to 33% on all LEDs and that should be good.
Still, added a couple places to provide extra 5V power on the board...
Just ordered via OSHPARK. Can't do China right now due to lunar new year...
OSHPARK was actually very reasonable cost and time to get some prototypes...
Comments
Cool. I did one of those, too. I have the boards and the parts, I've just been too busy to populate and pop into the toaster over. Josh and I use a couple of 8x8 WS2812b arrays in one of our products and I thought this would give us something to use for experimenting with animation "cells." Again, not finished yet because it's a "nice to have" not a "must have" at the moment.
Your board has more features than mine; I stuck to one pin and the pixels are powered from the 5v pin on the accessory header so I know I have to manage current. I wouldn't have considered trying the 2020 pixels in the past, but my friend Rick used them in the robot called "4" in the last Superman movie, so I decided to give it a try.
Great find! WS2812C’s lower current helps, but power budgeting still matters. Extra 5V inputs and brightness limiting are smart choices. OSHPARK is a solid call for quick prototypes.
@Rayman Since I know you have the hardware, I bet my Blitzen24 firmware will drive that board quite nicely
I am working on a similar project, though I am looking for a wireless solution, probably an ESP32 to drive it. It is a singling bulb Christmas ornament that can do lip-syncing with Xlights and Vixen.
I may reach out and PM you about your OSHPARK experience.
Your animated LED ornament looks great, good luck with it!