RGB Pixels are digital lights that you can set to any color or create animations. Each plastic PVC 'pixel bar' has 3 RGB LEDs and a controller chip soldered on a PCB. It's then sealed with epoxy to be waterproof. These large pixels offer great mounting options, like two plastic flanges with 4mm holes at the ends and sticky foam tape on the back for easy attachment. They're perfect for outdoor signs. Compared to our other LED dots, they're bigger and brighter, ideal for large - scale installations. They can also be used to make large RGB 7 - segment displays, which is why they come in strands of 21.
The pixels are connected by a 4 - conductor cable for +12VDC, ground, data, and clock. Data passes from one pixel to the next, allowing you to cut the strand or add more. Each pixel is digitally controlled with an 8 - bit PWM LED driver for 16 million color shades. A microcontroller is needed to clock the pixels; we have Arduino example code that can be adapted to other microcontrollers.
These pixels use 3 x 5050 RGB LEDs with a 120 - degree beam width. All LEDs in a pixel are controlled together. The total max brightness of all LEDs is about 4000mcd (be skeptical of LED ratings as they're often inflated).
Sold in strands of 21, each strand has two JST SM 3 - pin connectors to connect multiple strands. The two power wires are separate for easier wiring. A 2.1mm terminal block adapter helps attach a DC power supply. Our 12V/5A supply can drive 3 or more strands. The LEDs are constant - current driven, ensuring even colors with a stable 12V supply.
You can drive these with an Arduino using two digital pins. Check our library with example code and read our detailed usage tutorial. Since they work similarly to 36mm pixels, the guide will help you get them blinking.
Using these 12V Digital RGB LED Pixels is easy. First, connect the strands using the JST SM 3 - pin connectors. Use a 2.1mm terminal block adapter to attach a DC power supply. Make sure to use a stable 12V supply, like our 12V/5A one, which can handle multiple strands.
If you're using an Arduino, connect it to the pixels using two digital pins. You can find example code in our library to get started. Just follow our detailed usage tutorial for a smooth setup.
When it comes to mounting, you can use the plastic flanges with 4mm holes at the ends or the sticky foam tape on the back. This makes it easy to attach the pixels to different surfaces.
Keep in mind that the LED ratings might be inflated, so don't rely too much on the 4000mcd max brightness value. Also, make sure not to overload the power supply when connecting multiple strands.
For maintenance, since these pixels are waterproof, they can withstand some exposure to the elements. But if they get dirty, you can gently wipe them with a soft, damp cloth. That's all there is to it, and you'll have beautiful, colorful LED displays up and running in no time!
