Prepare the header strip:

Cut the strip to length if necessary. It will be easier to solder if you insert it into a breadboard - long pins down

Add the breakout board:

Place the breakout board over the pins so that the short pins poke through the breakout pads

And Solder!

Be sure to solder all pins for reliable electrical contact.

(For tips on soldering, be sure to check out our Guide to Excellent Soldering).

OK the control port header is done.

Check your solder joints visually and continue onto the next steps

Prepare the header strip:

Cut the strip to length if necessary. It will be easier to solder if you insert it into a breadboard - long pins down

Add the breakout board face up:

Place the breakout board over the pins so that the short pins poke through the breakout pads

And Solder!

Be sure to solder all pins for reliable electrical contact.

(For tips on soldering, be sure to check out our Guide to Excellent Soldering).

OK now you have the control and LED pads with headers.

Check your solder joints visually and continue onto the next steps

The LEDs face out and connect to the two side header strips.

The panel is symmetric - you can flip it around either way and it will work fine

Solder in the two long header strips. Not all are connected on the LED matrix but it makes the connections mechanically stable.

Check your solder joints visually and continue onto the next steps

Now you can trim the long header with diagonal cutters. Cut one or two pins at a time

Watch out for flying header bits. Wear eye protection and be careful!

Cut both sides down for the best look

You're done! Check your solder joints visually and continue onto the next steps