Using the SPI port option of an FT232H, we can drive NeoPixels from any PC with a USB port. See here for details about getting the FT232H installed and setup for your specific operating system:
And of course, also install the NeoPixel library:
sudo pip3 install adafruit-circuitpython-neopixel-spi
FT232H Wiring
The wiring is pretty simple.
- FT232H 5V to NeoPixel VIN
- FT232H GND to NeoPixel GND
- FT232H D1 to NeoPixel DIN
Note how only the MOSI (D1) pin of the SPI port is used. The other SPI pins, including SCLK, are not used at all.
Once you are wired up, try running the program in the Example Code section.
python3 neo_ring.py