# Busy Box Interruption Sign

## Overview

https://youtu.be/JvqsdFKqftU

## DIY Interruption Sign

In this project we’re making a NeoPixel LED sign using CircuitPython. This was inspired by [BusyBox interruption sign](https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/busybox-smart-sign-for-interruption-free-work#/) so we designed and 3D printed our own enclosure.

![led_strips_hero-onair-hold.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/539/medium640/led_strips_hero-onair-hold.jpg?1598993011)

## Swappable Faceplates

We designed it to have swappable faceplates so the front cover can easily come off. Black LED acrylic is used for the faceplates and evenly diffuses the NeoPixels. Use vinyl cut decals to make high-quality faceplate designs.

![led_strips_hero-hack-door.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/540/medium640/led_strips_hero-hack-door.jpg?1598993022)

## Portable & Customizable

The slide switch is built into the side of the enclosure so we can easily turn it on and off.

It runs off a lipo battery so it can be mounted to our door without any dangling cables.

![led_strips_hero-onair-table.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/541/medium640/led_strips_hero-onair-table.jpg?1598993104)

## Parts
Info: 

### Adafruit Feather nRF52840 Express

[Adafruit Feather nRF52840 Express](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4062)
The **Adafruit Feather nRF52840 Express** is the new Feather family member with Bluetooth® Low Energy and _native USB support_ featuring the nRF52840!&nbsp; It's our take on an 'all-in-one' Arduino-compatible + Bluetooth® Low Energy with built-in USB...

Out of Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4062)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4062/guides)
![Angled shot of a Adafruit Feather nRF52840 Express. ](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/4062-02.jpg)

### Black LED Diffusion Acrylic Panel 12" x 12" - 0.1" / 2.6mm thick

[Black LED Diffusion Acrylic Panel 12" x 12" - 0.1" / 2.6mm thick](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4594)
A nice whoppin' slab of some lovely black acrylic to add some extra diffusion to your LED Matrix project. This material is 2.6mm (0.1") thick and is made of special cast acrylic that makes it perfect for glowy projects, especially matricies or NeoPixels.

Unlike smoke or...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4594)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4594/guides)
![LED RGB matrix 12" x 12" with "Adafruit Industries LED Matrix" text showing, and LED acrylic slowly covering to make it nicely diffused](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/product-videos/640x480/4594-04.jpg)

### Adafruit NeoPixel Digital RGB LED Strip - White 30 LED

[Adafruit NeoPixel Digital RGB LED Strip - White 30 LED](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1376)
You thought it couldn't get better than [our world-famous 32-LED-per-meter Digital LED strip](http://adafruit.com/products/306) but we will prove you wrong! These NeoPixel strips have 30 digitally-addressable pixel LEDs per meter and are very affordable and are only 12.5 mm...

Out of Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1376)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/1376/guides)
![Adafruit NeoPixel Digital RGB LED Strip reel wired to a microcontroller, with all the LEDs in a rainbow](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/1376-00.jpg)

### Breadboard-friendly SPDT Slide Switch

[Breadboard-friendly SPDT Slide Switch](https://www.adafruit.com/product/805)
These nice switches are perfect for use with breadboard and perfboard projects. They have 0.1" spacing and snap in nicely into a solderless breadboard. They're easy to switch no matter what size fingers you have, but not so easy that they'll get flipped by accident. Work great as...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/805)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/805/guides)
![Small, black, SPDT slide switch.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/805-03.jpg)

### Lithium Ion Polymer Battery - 3.7v 1200mAh

[Lithium Ion Polymer Battery - 3.7v 1200mAh](https://www.adafruit.com/product/258)
Lithium-ion polymer (also known as 'lipo' or 'lipoly') batteries are thin, light, and powerful. The output ranges from 4.2V when completely charged to 3.7V. This battery has a capacity of 1200mAh for a total of about 4.5 Wh. If you need a larger battery, <a...></a...>

Out of Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/258)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/258/guides)
![Lithium Ion Polymer Battery 3.7v 1200mAh with JST 2-PH connector](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/258-02.jpg)

### Silicone Cover Stranded-Core Ribbon Cable - 10 Wire 1 Meter Long

[Silicone Cover Stranded-Core Ribbon Cable - 10 Wire 1 Meter Long](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3890)
For those who are fans of our silicone-covered wires, but are always looking to _up their wiring game_. We now have **Silicone Cover Ribbon cables!** These may look _a lot_ like <a...></a...>

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3890)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3890/guides)
![10 wire Silicone Cover Stranded-Core Ribbon Cable](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/3890-01.jpg)

### Fully Reversible Pink/Purple USB A to micro B Cable - 1m long

[Fully Reversible Pink/Purple USB A to micro B Cable - 1m long](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4111)
This cable is not only super-fashionable, with a woven pink and purple Blinka-like pattern, it's also fully reversible! That's right, you will save _seconds_ a day by not having to flip the cable around.

First let's talk about the cover and over-molding. We got these...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4111)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4111/guides)
![Fully Reversible Pink/Purple USB A to micro B Cable](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/4111-02.jpg)

### Part: M2.5 Hardware Kit
quantity: 1
M2.5 Black Nylon Standoffs and Screws
[M2.5 Hardware Kit](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3299)

### Part: Acrylic Cutter
quantity: 1
10 Pcs Blade Set, Multi-Use Cutter with Cutting Blade
[Acrylic Cutter](https://amzn.to/2YS9Zg4)

### Part: Velcro Strips
quantity: 1
Command Picture Hanging Strips, Medium, White, 3-Pairs (17201-ES)
[Velcro Strips](https://amzn.to/2YYoMpH)

### Part: Clear Vinyl Transfer Paper Tape
quantity: 1
12 x 50 FT
[Clear Vinyl Transfer Paper Tape](https://amzn.to/2YXrzPU)

### Part: Matte Black Vinyl
quantity: 1
12in x 10ft Roll of Oracal 651 Matte Black Craft Vinyl
[Matte Black Vinyl](https://amzn.to/2GlFA3t)

### Part: Engineering Scissors
quantity: 1
Super Scissors - PH-57
[Engineering Scissors](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1599)

# Busy Box Interruption Sign

## Circuit Diagram

The diagram below provides a visual reference for wiring of the components. This diagram was created using the software package [Fritzing](http://fritzing.org/download/).

## Adafruit Library for Fritzing

Use Adafruit's Fritzing parts library to create circuit diagrams for your projects. Download the library or just grab individual parts. Get the library and parts from [GitHub - Adafruit Fritzing Parts](https://github.com/adafruit/Fritzing-Library/tree/master/parts).

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/480/medium800/led_strips_circuit-diagram.jpg?1598883918)

## Wired Connections

Two NeoPixel strips are daisy chained together. Each strip has eight NeoPixel LEDs making a total of 16 NeoPixel LEDs.

**NeoPixel Strip**

- DIN to Pin #6 on Feather
- GND to GND on Feather
- 5V to 3V on Feather
- DOU from strip #1 to DIN on strip #2
- GND from strip #1 to GND on strip 2
- 5V from strip #1 to 5V on strip #2

**Switch**

- Enable and Ground on Feather

## Powering

The Adafruit board can be powered via USB or JST using a 3.7v lipo battery. In this project, a 1200mAh lipo battery is used. The battery is rechargeable with a USB lipo charger. The switch is wired to the EN and GND pins on the Feather.

# Busy Box Interruption Sign

## 3D Printing

## Parts List

STL files for 3D printing are oriented to print "as-is" on FDM style machines. Parts are designed to 3D print without any support material. Original design source may be downloaded using the links below.

**File names**

- front-cover.stl
- frame.stl
- back-cover.stl
- pcb-mount.stl
- plate-holder.stl
- hanger-bracket-horiz.stl
- hanger-bracket-vert.stl

![led_strips_3d-parts.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/542/medium640/led_strips_3d-parts.jpg?1598994352)

[Fusion 360 Share Link](https://a360.co/31MO63x)
[Download CAD files from PrusaPrinters](https://www.prusaprinters.org/prints/39859-diy-on-air-sign)
[Download CAD files from Thingiverse](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4585839)
## CAD Assembly

The Feather is mounted to standoffs secured to the PCB mount. The switch is press fitted into the built-in holder on the PCB mount. The faceplate holder is secured to the mounting tabs inside the frame. The PCB mount is secured to the mounting tabs inside the frame behind the faceplate holder. The front and back cover snap fit onto the frame. Additional mounting brackets can be secured to the back cover.

![led_strips_cad-explode.gif](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/546/medium640thumb/led_strips_cad-explode.jpg?1598997109)

## Slicing Parts

No supports are required. Slice with setting for PLA material.&nbsp;

The parts were sliced using CURA using the slice settings below.

- PLA filament 220c extruder
- 0.2 layer height
- 10% gyroid infill
- 60mm/s print speed
- 60c heated bed

![led_strips_cura-slice.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/543/medium640/led_strips_cura-slice.jpg?1598994993)

## Design Source Files

The project assembly was designed in Fusion 360. This can be downloaded in different formats like STEP, STL and more. Electronic components like Adafruit's board, displays, connectors and more can be downloaded from the [Adafruit CAD parts GitHub Repo](https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_CAD_Parts).

![led_strips_4062-nRF52830-Feather.gif](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/544/medium640thumb/led_strips_4062-nRF52830-Feather.jpg?1598995026)

# Busy Box Interruption Sign

## CircuitPython for Feather nRF52840

[CircuitPython](https://github.com/adafruit/circuitpython) is a derivative of [MicroPython](https://micropython.org) designed to simplify experimentation and education on low-cost microcontrollers. It makes it easier than ever to get prototyping by requiring no upfront desktop software downloads. Simply copy and edit files on the **CIRCUITPY** drive to iterate.

The following instructions will show you how to install CircuitPython. If you've already installed CircuitPython but are looking to update it or reinstall it, the same steps work for that as well!

## Set up CircuitPython Quick Start!

Follow this quick step-by-step for super-fast Python power :)

[Download the latest version of CircuitPython for this board via CircuitPython.org](https://circuitpython.org/board/feather_nrf52840_express/)
 **Click the link above to download the latest UF2 file.**

&nbsp;

Download and save it to your desktop (or wherever is handy).

![circuitpython_nRF52840_UF2.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/070/318/medium640/circuitpython_nRF52840_UF2.png?1548963877)

Plug your Feather nRF52840 into your computer using a known-good USB cable.

**A lot of people end up using charge-only USB cables and it is very frustrating! So make sure you have a USB cable you know is good for data sync.**

Double-click the **Reset** button next to the USB connector on your board, and you will see the NeoPixel RGB LED turn green (identified by the arrow in the image). If it turns red, check the USB cable, try another USB port, etc. **Note:** The little red LED next to the USB connector will pulse red. That's ok!

If double-clicking doesn't work the first time, try again. Sometimes it can take a few tries to get the rhythm right!

![circuitpython_FeathernRF52840_Top_Product_Image.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/070/319/medium640/circuitpython_FeathernRF52840_Top_Product_Image.jpg?1548963972)

You will see a new disk drive appear called **FTHR840BOOT**.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Drag the **adafruit\_circuitpython\_etc.uf2** file to **FTHR840BOOT****.**

![circuitpython_FTHR840BOOT.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/070/320/medium640/circuitpython_FTHR840BOOT.png?1548964488)

![circuitpython_Drag_nRF52840_UF2.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/070/321/medium640/circuitpython_Drag_nRF52840_UF2.png?1548964497)

The LED will flash. Then, the&nbsp; **FTHR840BOOT** drive will disappear and a new disk drive called **CIRCUITPY** will appear.

&nbsp;

That's it, you're done! :)

![circuitpython_nRF52840_CIRCUITPY.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/070/322/medium640/circuitpython_nRF52840_CIRCUITPY.png?1548964511)

# Busy Box Interruption Sign

## Code

## Coding

This project uses the neopixel library from the CircuitPython. For more information on NeoPixel animations, check out the [LED animation guide](https://learn.adafruit.com/circuitpython-led-animations) and the [NeoPixel Uber Guide](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-neopixel-uberguide/python-circuitpython).

## Installing or Upgrading CircuitPython

You should ensure you have CircuitPython 5.0 or greater on your board. Plug your board in with a known good data + power cable (not the cheesy USB cable that comes with USB power packs, they are power only). You should see a new flash drive pop up.

If the drive is **CIRCUITPY** , then open the **boot\_out.txt** file to ensure the version number is 5.0 or greater.&nbsp;

```python
Adafruit CircuitPython 5.3.0 on 2020-04-29; Adafruit Feather nRF52840 Express with nRF52840
```

## Installing Project Code

To use with CircuitPython, you need to first install a few libraries, into the lib folder on your **CIRCUITPY** drive. Then you need to update **code.py** with the example script.

Thankfully, we can do this in one go. In the example below, click the **Download Project Bundle** button below to download the necessary libraries and the **code.py** file in a zip file. Extract the contents of the zip file, open the directory **BusyBox\_Sign/** and then click on the directory that matches the version of CircuitPython you're using and copy the contents of that directory to your **CIRCUITPY** drive.

Your **CIRCUITPY** drive should now look similar to the following image:

![CIRCUITPY](https://adafruit.github.io/Adafruit_Learning_System_Guides/BusyBox_Sign.png )

https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_Learning_System_Guides/blob/main/BusyBox_Sign/code.py

# Busy Box Interruption Sign

## Acrylic Cutting

## Acrylic Template

Print out the faceplate template onto paper and cut out the shape using scissors or a hobby knife. This paper template cutout is used to reference the correct size of the faceplates.

![led_strips_acrylic-tools.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/530/medium640/led_strips_acrylic-tools.jpg?1598984326)

[acrylic-template.svg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/548/original/acrylic-template.svg?1599062168)
[hacking-vinyl.svg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/549/original/hacking-vinyl.svg?1599062176)
[onair-vinyl.svg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/550/original/onair-vinyl.svg?1599062185)
[busy-vinyl.svg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/551/original/busy-vinyl.svg?1599062195)
## Scoring Paper Backing on Acrylic

I started by scoring the paper backing using an xacto knife. I used a metal ruler on a cutting mat and made sure to be extra careful.

![led_strips_cut-score-paper.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/531/medium640/led_strips_cut-score-paper.jpg?1598992441)

## Scoring Acrylic

To cut the acrylic I used a scoring tool that’s specifically made cutting acrylic. I made sure to score several times before snapping off the pieces.&nbsp;

![led_strips_cut-score-acrylic.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/532/medium640/led_strips_cut-score-acrylic.jpg?1598992461)

## Snap Acrylic Piece

Once I was about half-way through, I put it near the edge of the table and snapped off the piece. I repeated this process for a so I could make a few different designs.

![led_strips_snap-acrylic.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/533/medium640/led_strips_snap-acrylic.jpg?1598992530)

## Vinyl Decals

I used a vinyl cutter with some matte black vinyl to create the signs. I found the matte black vinyl works the best for masking out the LEDs. Use our SVG file for creating similar decals or create your own.

## Vinyl Transfer Tape

I cut pieces of transfer tape to size and carefully placed them over the vinyl. Use a standard grip tape meant for vinyl.&nbsp;

![led_strips_vinyl-decals.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/534/medium640/led_strips_vinyl-decals.jpg?1598992545)

## Apply Transfer Tape

Using a squeegee, I started from the center and worked my way outwards so I could knock out any air bubbles.

![led_strips_apply-tape-vinyl.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/535/medium640/led_strips_apply-tape-vinyl.jpg?1598992568)

## Remove Transfer Tape

Start from the corners and begin to peel the tape off. I tend to peel slowly especially for intricate designs with small pieces.

![led_strips_tape-peel.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/536/medium640/led_strips_tape-peel.jpg?1598992592)

## Apply Vinyl to Faceplate

I made sure to wipe the acrylic clean with a bit of alcohol before sticking it to the faceplate. Place the vinyl onto the faceplate starting with the center and working your way outwards. Using the squeegee once again to knock out those pesky air bubbles.

![led_strips_apply-vinyl-acrylic.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/537/medium640/led_strips_apply-vinyl-acrylic.jpg?1598992689)

## Remove Tape from Faceplate

Then I proceeded to peel off the transfer tape and lastly removed the protective paper backing.

![led_strips_acrylic-peel-paper.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/538/medium640/led_strips_acrylic-peel-paper.jpg?1598992705)

# Busy Box Interruption Sign

## Wiring

## Wiring Switch

Use a 2-wire ribbon cable 86mm in length. Using wire stripper, remove a bit of insulation from the tips of each wire. Tin the wires by adding a bit of solder. This will prevent the strands of wire from fraying.

![led_strips_switch-wire.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/488/medium640/led_strips_switch-wire.jpg?1598972359)

## Soldering Switch

Solder the 2-wire ribbon cable to the middle pin and a pin on either side. Third helping hands can help assist soldering by holding components and wires steady.

![led_strips_switch-wiring.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/489/medium640/led_strips_switch-wiring.jpg?1598972395)

## Wired Switch

The slide switch is wired to the EN and GND pins on the Feather.

![led_strips_switch-wired.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/490/medium640/led_strips_switch-wired.jpg?1598972438)

## Wiring Strips

Cut two pieces of strips off the reel of NeoPixels. Each strip includes 8x NeoPixels, making a total of 16. Use two 3-wire ribbon cables. The cable for the first strip is 76mm in length. The second strip will require a cable 96mm in length.

![led_strips_strips-wires.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/491/medium640/led_strips_strips-wires.jpg?1598972494)

## Wiring First Strip (DIN)

Solder the 76mm long wire to the first NeoPixel strip. Use the arrow labeled on the flexible PCB to indicate the DIN pin. Solder the cable to the 5V, GND and DIN pads.

![led_strips_strip-wire-DIN-A.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/492/medium640/led_strips_strip-wire-DIN-A.jpg?1598972535)

## Wiring First Strip (DOUT)

Solder the 96mm long cable to the pads on the end the first strip. Solder the cable to 5V, DOUT and GND pads.

![led_strips_strip-wire-DOUT.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/493/medium640/led_strips_strip-wire-DOUT.jpg?1598973742)

## Wiring Second Strip

Solder the other end of the 96mm long cable to the pads on the second strip. Solder the cable to 5V, DIN and GND pads.

![led_strips_strip-wire-DIN-B.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/494/medium640/led_strips_strip-wire-DIN-B.jpg?1598973761)

## Wired Strips

Double check the labels on the flexible PCBs to ensure the polarity is correct.

![led_strips_strips-wired.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/498/medium640/led_strips_strips-wired.jpg?1598973295)

## Wiring Feather

The slide switch and NeoPixel strips are now ready to solder to the Feather. The slide switch and NeoPixel strip will share common ground.

![led_strips_feather-wires.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/496/medium640/led_strips_feather-wires.jpg?1598973150)

## Wiring Switch to Feather

Solder the cable from the switch&nbsp; to the EN and GND pins on the Feather. Solder the wires from the bottom of the Feather PCB.

![led_strips_feather-switch-wiring.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/497/medium640/led_strips_feather-switch-wiring.jpg?1598973801)

## Test Switch

Quickly test out the slide switch by plugging in the battery. Use the switch to power the Feather on and off.

![led_strips_feather-switch-test.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/499/medium640/led_strips_feather-switch-test.jpg?1598973829)

## Wiring Strips to Feather

Solder the three wires from the NeoPixel strips to pin #6, GND and 3V on Feather. The ground pin is shared across the switch and NeoPixel strip.

![led_strips_feather-strip-wired.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/500/medium640/led_strips_feather-strip-wired.jpg?1598973941)

## Test Circuit

Plug in the battery again and use the switch to power the Feather on. With CircuitPython installed and code uploaded, the NeoPixel LEDs will power on and cycle through animations.

![led_strips_circuit-test-crop.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/502/medium640/led_strips_circuit-test-crop.jpg?1598973645)

# Busy Box Interruption Sign

## Assembly

## PCB Hardware

Use the following hardware to secure the Feather to the PCB mounting plate.

- 4x M2.5 x 6mm (female-female) Standoffs
- 8x M2.5 x 4mm screws

![led_strips_pcb-screws.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/507/medium640/led_strips_pcb-screws.jpg?1598982573)

## Installed Hardware

Insert the screws through the four mounting holes and install the standoffs. Reference the photo for correct placement.

![led_strips_pcb-standoffs-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/508/medium640/led_strips_pcb-standoffs-installed.jpg?1598982617)

## Install Switch

Place the switch into the built-in holder. Insert the body of the switch at an angle and press down to secure in place.

![led_strips_switch-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/509/medium640/led_strips_switch-installed.jpg?1598982666)

## Install Feather

Place the Feather over the four standoffs and line up the mounting holes. Adjust the wiring so they're neatly fitted under the Feather. Insert and fasten 4x M2.5 x 4mm long screws through the mounting holes to secure the Feather.

![led_strips_feather-secured.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/510/medium640/led_strips_feather-secured.jpg?1598982705)

## Faceplate Holder Hardware

Use the following hardware to secure the faceplate holder to the enclosure framing.

- 6x M2.5 x 6mm (female-female) standoffs
- 6x M2.5 x 4mm screws

![led_strips_plate-holder-screws.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/511/medium640/led_strips_plate-holder-screws.jpg?1598982836)

## Install Hardware for Faceplate Holder

Insert the screws through the six mounting tabs and install the standoffs. Reference the photo for correct placement.

![led_strips_plate-screws-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/512/medium640/led_strips_plate-screws-installed.jpg?1598982898)

## Test Fit PCB

I suggest test fitting the PCB mounting plate before securing it to the framing. That helps determine the orientation of the enclosure.&nbsp;

![led_strips_frame-pcb-test.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/513/medium640/led_strips_frame-pcb-test.jpg?1598982919)

## Holes in Frame

The hole cutout on the side of the enclosure framing is used to expose the microUSB port on the Feather and the slide switch.

![led_strips_frame-switch-fit.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/514/medium640/led_strips_frame-switch-fit.jpg?1598982944)

## Installing Strips

The two NeoPixel strips are secured to the inner walls of the framing using nito double-sided tape. Hot glue or other adhesives can also be used as a substitute.

![led_strips_frame-scripts-installing.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/515/medium640/led_strips_frame-scripts-installing.jpg?1598982969)

## Cut Tape Pieces

I cut out four strips of double-sided nito tape. That was enough to secure the NeoPixel strips.

![led_strips_strips-tape.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/516/medium640/led_strips_strips-tape.jpg?1598982990)

## Install Strip A

The PCB mounting plate is removed in order to have more space for the NeoPixel strip to be attached. Check the wiring and ensure there's enough slack for the strip. Reference the photo for best placement. Attach the strip to the inner wall of the framing.

![led_strips_frame-strip-a-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/517/medium640/led_strips_frame-strip-a-installed.jpg?1598983078)

## Install Strip B

Attach the second strip the other side of the framing. Check the wiring and ensure there's enough slack for the strip. Do not cover up the snaps. Try to place the strips in line with the inner wall.

![led_strips_frame-strip-b-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/518/medium640/led_strips_frame-strip-b-installed.jpg?1598984149)

## Test Strips

Plug in the battery to the Feather and use the slide switch to power on the circuit. This lets you know if everything is still working and if the placement of the strips are good.

![led_strips_frame-strip-test.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/519/medium640/led_strips_frame-strip-test.jpg?1598983130)

## Install Faceplate Holder & PCB mount

Place the faceplate holder down with the standoffs facing up. Place the framing over the faceplate holder and line up the mounting holes. Place the PCB mount over the three mounting tabs onto the inside of the framing. Use the following hardware to secure the parts together. Use the longer screws to secure the PCB mounting plate.

- 3x M2.5 x 6mm long screws
- 3x M2.5 x 4mm long screws

![led_strips_frame-mounts-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/520/medium640/led_strips_frame-mounts-installed.jpg?1598984343)

## Secured Plate Holder

Reference the photo for correct placement of the faceplate holder, PCB mounting plate and framing.

![led_strips_frame-mounts-secured.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/521/medium640/led_strips_frame-mounts-secured.jpg?1598984456)

## Connect Battery

Plug in the 1200mAh battery into the JST power port on the Feather.

![led_strips_battery-plug.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/522/medium640/led_strips_battery-plug.jpg?1598983564)

## Tack Battery

The battery is secured to the back cover using mounting tack.

![led_strips_battery-tack.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/523/medium640/led_strips_battery-tack.jpg?1598983620)

## Secured Battery

The battery can be fit onto the bar in the middle of the back cover.

![led_strips_battery-tacked.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/524/medium640/led_strips_battery-tacked.jpg?1598983693)

## Install Back Cover

The back cover snap fits onto the back of the framing.

![led_strips_backcover-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/525/medium640/led_strips_backcover-installed.jpg?1598984470)

## Back Cover Mounting Brackets

The back cover mounting brackets are used for attaching 3M velcro strips. This allows the sign to be easily taken off the door or wall. Use the holes built-into the back cover to secure onto screws or nails.

![led_strips_backcover-brackets.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/529/medium640/led_strips_backcover-brackets.jpg?1598984792)

## Install Acrylic Plate

Insert the acrylic plate into the faceplate holder by sliding into the rails.

![led_strips_acrylic-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/526/medium640/led_strips_acrylic-installed.jpg?1598984539)

## Install Front Cover

Place the front cover over the framing with the side tabs properly oriented. Firmly press together to snap fit shut.

![led_strips_face-plate-cover-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/527/medium640/led_strips_face-plate-cover-install.jpg?1598984607)

## Final Build

And there you have it! You sign is ready to mount onto the wall or door. I plan to use this a whole lot and hope this inspires you to check out CircuitPython!

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/528/medium800/led_strips_final-build.jpg?1598984081)


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