If you're using a 64x64 RGB matrix and either a Bonnet or a Rev C HAT, use your soldering iron to melt a blob of solder on the bottom solder jumper so the middle pad is 'shorted' to 8. (This is compatible with 64x64 matrices in the Adafruit store. For 64x64 matrices from other sources, you might need to use 16 instead, check the datasheet.)
Configure for Quality/Convenience
This an option picked when running the script to install the software. No additional work is needed if the "convenience" option is chosen. For the "quality" option, a connection is needed between GPIO4 and GPIO18.
The “quality” option comes at a cost. First, you need to solder a jumper wire between GPIO4 and GPIO18 on the Bonnet or HAT board.
Additionally, normal audio output needs to be disabled if "quality" is chosen. Specifically, it is the snd_bcm2835 kernel module that needs to be disabled. The installer script will take care of that if the "quality" option is chosen. USB audio adapters should still work. But audio over HDMI or from the 1/8" audio jack will not be present.
Shut down your Pi and remove power. Plug the HAT or Bonnet on so all the 2x20 pins go into the GPIO header.
Step 2. Connect Matrix Power cable to terminal block
Your RGB matrix came with a red & black power cable. One end has a 4-pin MOLEX connector that goes into the matrix. The other end probably has a spade connector. If you didn't get a spade connector, you may have to cut off the connector and tin the wires to plug them into the terminal block
The RGB matrix also came with a 2x8 data cable. Connect one end to the matrix's INPUT side and the other end to the IDC socket on the HAT/bonnet.
It wont damage the matrix if you accidentally get the cable connected to the output end of the matrix but it wont work so you might as well get it right first time!
Step 4. Power up your Pi via MicroUSB (optional but suggested)
Connect your Raspberry Pi to power via the microUSB cable, just like you normally would to power it up.
You can power the Pi via the 5V wall plug that is also used for the Matrix but its best to have it powered seperately
OK now you can plug in your 5V 2A or 4A or larger wall adapter into the HAT/bonnet. This will turn the green LED on but nothing will display on your matrix yet because no software is running!
IDC goes into the INPUT side (look for any arrows, arrows point from INPUT side to OUTPUT)
Power plug installed, red wires go to VCC, black wires to GND
Step 6. Log into your Pi to install and run software
OK now you are ready to install the RGB matrix driver software. You will need to get into a command line via the HDMI monitor, ssh or console cable. You will also need to make sure your Pi is on the Internet via a WiFi or Ethernet connection.
At this time, the LED Matrix library does not work on the Pi 5, nor the Pi 400.
For Raspberry Pi 5s see the following guide for software setup:
For Raspberry Pi 4s and older models, continue with this guide to install software. There is an automated script that can be run. For people more comfortable with cloning repos and running make files, a manual install process is also shown. Pick whichever one seems best suited for your setup.
Page last edited July 14, 2025
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