Each dot is digitally controlled, with an internal 8-bit PWM LED driver (24-bit

color for 16 million different shades). The pixels must be clocked by a

microcontroller, we have an example code linked below that works on an

Arduino, it should be simple to adapt it to any other microcontroller.

The pixels use 4 x 5050 RGB LEDs, with a 120 degree beam width. All of the

LEDs are controlled at once so you cannot have one pixel with the four LEDs

different colors. (Color control is per single square 4-LED pixel only) The total

max brightness of all LEDs is about 6000mcd. (Please note: mcd ratings of LEDs

are notoriously inflated by most LED sellers, so be extra-skeptical when

reviewing LED ratings!)

Sold by the strand, each strand has 20 pixels in series! Each strand has two JST

SM 3-pin connectors so you can connect multiple strands in a row, as many as

you wish, just watch for how much current they want. The two power wires are

brought out separately to make wiring easier, a 2.1mm terminal block adapter is

handy here to attach a DC power supply. We have a 12V/5A supply that should

be able to drive 2 or more strands (depending on current use). The LEDs are

constant-current driven so you'll have even colors through-out the strand as

long as you have a stable 12V supply

You can drive these with an Arduino using any two microcontroller digital

pins, check this library which also has example code to demonstrate the strands

and be sure to read our very detailed tutorial on usage!

TECHNICAL DETAILS



36mmx36mm squares (1.4") 5mm deep (0.2")



75mm / 3" apart on the strand



20 pieces per strand



These pixels use a WS2801 chip for full 24 bit color, constant-current

drive



12VDC power, 120mA maximum per pixel (LED on full white)



2-pin SPI-like protocol



WS2801 Datasheet for the chip inside each pixel