So, you want lots and lots of NeoPixels? And you want them for less? Not a problem! Here's a sheet of Flora NeoPixels fresh from the (reflow) oven. Cut them off as you need 'em and save a pretty penny while you're at it.
What's a wearable project without LEDs? Our favorite part of the Flora platform is these tiny smart pixels. Designed specifically for wearables, these updated Flora NeoPixels have ultra-cool technology: these ultra-bright LEDs have a constant-current driver cooked right into the LED package! The pixels are chainable - so you only need 1 pin/wire to control as many LEDs as you like. They're easy to sew, and the chainable design means no crossed threads.
These pixels have full 24-bit color ability with PWM taken care of by the controller chip. Since the LED is so bright, you need less current/power to get the effects you want. The driver is constant current so it's OK if your battery power changes or fluctuates a little.
Each pixel draws as much as ~60mA (all three RGB LEDs on for full brightness white). In theory, the Flora can drive up to 500 pixels at 30 FPS (it will run out of RAM after that). However, after about 10 pixels (or if the distance between pixels is more than an inch or two) the resistance of the thread can affect the power supply. For large quantities of pixels over 10, you may want to consider using stranded core wire or copper braid to provide a "power bus" for the pixels - the current draw will add up fast!
Check out NeoPixel Uberguide for everything you could ever want to know (and more)!
Revision History:
As of 20 February, 2024- These Flora NeoPixels no longer use the discontinued WS2811S, we have updated them to use the more-reliable SK6812. The shape, size, protocol, color and brightness is the same. The highest voltage you can use has dropped from 9V to 5.5V so they cannot be used with 6V+ power packs.
Specifications
Dimensions: 0.5" (12.5mm) diameter circle PCB, 0.1" (2.5mm) total thickness
800 KHz speed protocol
Chainable design
3.5~5.5VDC power (we found they can run at 3.3V but color will be dimmed), constant current 18.5mA per LED (~55mA max total per pixel)
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