NeoPixel matrices are two-dimensional grids of NeoPixels, all controlled from a single microcontroller pin.
Rigid 8x8 NeoPixel Matrices
Like NeoPixel rings, these 64-pixel matrices are assembled on a rigid printed circuit board and are available in both RGB and RGBW varieties.
NeoPixel Matrix Product Selector
All measure 71 millimeters (2.8 inches) square and about 3.6 mm thick. There are several mounting holes, and the DOUT pin allows multiple matrices to be linked in series.
RGB NeoPixels are the most affordable and can produce millions of color combinations.
RGBW NeoPixels offer an eye-pleasing “true” white in addition to RGB. These are available in three different color temperaures:
- Cool white: approximately 6000 Kelvin (K).
- Neutral: approx 4500K.
- Warm white: approx. 3000K.
RGBW pixels incorporate a translucent diffuser layer to help mix and soften the light output. This makes them appear less intense than RGB pixels (which are “water clear”), but it’s really the same LEDs inside.
Flexible NeoPixel matrices are available in three different sizes:
Size |
Dimensions |
Total # of LEDs |
Max Power Draw (approx) |
8x8 |
80 mm / 3.15" square |
64 |
19 Watts (3.8 Amps at 5 Volts) |
16x16 |
160 mm / 6.3" square |
256 |
77 Watts (15 Amps at 5 Volts) |
8x32 |
320 mm x 80 mm / 12.6" x 3" |
256 |
77 Watts (15 Amps at 5 Volts) |
Flex matrices are about 2 millimeters (0.08 inches) thick.
Though called “flexible,” these matrices do not tolerate continuous and repeated bending. “Formable” might be a better word — they can be bent around a rigid or semi-rigid shape, like a hat. Repeated flexing (as on costumes) will soon crack the solder connections. (The videos on the product pages are to highlight just how flexible these matrices are, but this really is a “don’t try this at home” thing.)
Flex matrices are available with RGB pixels only; RGBW is not offered.
As mentioned on the NeoPixel Strips page, keep power consumption in mind when working with NeoPixel matrices. With so many pixels at your disposal, it’s easy to get carried away.
If you need a size or shape of NeoPixel matrix that’s not offered here, it’s possible to create your own using sections of NeoPixel strip!
NeoPixel matrices don’t enforce any particular “topology” — some may have rows of pixels arranged left-to-right, others may alternate left-to-right and right-to-left rows, or they could be installed in vertical columns instead. This will require some planning in your code. Our NeoMatrix library supports most matrix topologies.
Page last edited February 23, 2016
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