# LED Noodle Lantern ## Overview https://youtu.be/9Mak8Uz3F8c ## Scifi Inspired You can build a sci-fi inspired lantern using an Adafruit QT Py and LED Noodles. 3D print parts to build a container that showcases these flexible LED filaments. Powered by the QT Py RP2040, six individual LED noodles are wired up to the GPIO pins and controlled with PWM. ![leds_hero-upright.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/667/medium640/leds_hero-upright.jpg?1664906190) ## On/Off It features a latching push button with a built-in LED ring for turning the lantern on and off. There’s also a print-in-place handle with a built-in hinge that allows it to swing back and forth. ![leds_hero-button.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/668/medium640/leds_hero-button.jpg?1664906286) ## USB Charging  It’s running off a cylindrical lipo battery so it’s portable and will last for several hours. The USB port is accessible and can charge the battery with a Lipo Charger BFF add-on. ![leds_hero-usb.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/669/medium640/leds_hero-usb.jpg?1664906355) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/661/medium800/leds_hero-handle.jpg?1664901571) ## Parts ### Adafruit QT Py RP2040 [Adafruit QT Py RP2040](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4900) What a cutie pie! Or is it... a QT Py? This diminutive dev board comes with one of our new favorite chip, the RP2040. It's been made famous in the new [Raspberry Pi Pico](https://www.adafruit.com/pico) _and_ our [Feather...](http://www.adafruit.com/product/4884) Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4900) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4900/guides) ![Video of hand holding a QT Py PCB in their hand. An LED glows rainbow colors.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/product-videos/640x480/4900-06.jpg) ### Adafruit LiIon or LiPoly Charger BFF Add-On for QT Py [Adafruit LiIon or LiPoly Charger BFF Add-On for QT Py](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5397) [Is your QT Py all alone](https://www.adafruit.com/?q=qt+py&sort=BestMatch), lacking a friend to travel the wide world with? When you were a kid you may have learned about the "buddy" system, well this product is kinda like that! A board that will watch your QT... Out of Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5397) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5397/guides) ![Video of a person with white painted nails unplugging a USB cable from a small, black, square-shaped lipo battery breakout board soldered to a similarly shaped microcontroller, which is also connected to a monochrome OLED display breakout. The OLED breakout displays battery and power data.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/product-videos/640x480/5397-05.jpg) ### nOOds - Flexible LED Filament - 3V 300mm long - Lime Green [nOOds - Flexible LED Filament - 3V 300mm long - Lime Green](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5507) Our favorite food when hacking on code or electronics is a hot bowl of noodles - and around NYC these are often called 'noods'! What we've got here are flexible LED noodles, in different lengths and colors. All are not good for eatin' but they _are _good for... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5507) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5507/guides) ![Video of a pair of white hands coiling and playing with a 300mm long green LED filament.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/product-videos/640x480/5507-04.jpg) ### Lithium Ion Cylindrical Battery - 3.7v 2200mAh [Lithium Ion Cylindrical Battery - 3.7v 2200mAh](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1781) Need a big battery for your project? This lithium-ion battery contains a 2200mAh and a protection circuit that provides over-voltage, under-voltage, and over-current protection. Yet, it is slim and easy to fit into many project cases. This cell can provide 2 **C** of... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1781) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/1781/guides) ![Lithium Ion Cylindrical Battery - 3.7v 2200mAh with JST PH connector](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/1781-04.jpg) ### Adafruit Perma-Proto Small Mint Tin Size Breadboard PCB - 3 pack [Adafruit Perma-Proto Small Mint Tin Size Breadboard PCB - 3 pack](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1214) Making a project that will fit into an "Altoids Smalls" Mint Tin? Or maybe you just need a small amount of prototyping space and a larger breadboard size is too big? Put down that PCB shear and pick up a Perma-Proto in the new exciting shape! Customers have asked us to carry... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1214) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/1214/guides) ![Overhead shot of three perma-protos.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/1214-06.jpg) ### 36-pin Stacking header - pack of 5! [36-pin Stacking header - pack of 5!](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3366) Headers are like the duct tape of electronics. They're great for connecting things together, soldering to perf-boards, sockets for wires or break-away header, etc. We go through these guys real fast, and thought that given how handy they are, we'd offer them in a pack of... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3366) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3366/guides) ![Angled shot of 5 36-pin headers upright. ](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/3366-01.jpg) ### Rugged Metal On/Off Switch with Red LED Ring [Rugged Metal On/Off Switch with Red LED Ring](https://www.adafruit.com/product/916) These chrome-plated metal buttons are rugged and look real good while doing it! Simply drill a 16mm hole into any material up to 1/2" thick and you can fit these in place, there's even a rubber gasket to keep water out of the enclosure. On the front of the button is a flat metal... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/916) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/916/guides) ![Angled shot of Rugged Metal On/Off Switch with Red LED Ring - 16mm Red On/Off.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/916-00.jpg) ### Part: Resistor Pack quantity: 1 6x 10 Ohm resistor for LEDs [Resistor Pack](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FD1XVL6/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_XHKD2P5Y7S31DKS3614H?linkCode=ml1&tag=primepal-20&th=1) ### Part: M3 Hardware Kit quantity: 1 Black Nylon Machine Screw and Stand-off Set – M3 Thread [M3 Hardware Kit](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4685) ### Part: 3-pin Cables quantity: 1 1.25mm Pitch 3-pin Cable Matching Pair - 40cm long - Molex PicoBlade Compatible [3-pin Cables](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4721) ### Part: 10 Wire Silicon Cable quantity: 1 10 Wire 1 Meter Long - 28AWG Black [10 Wire Silicon Cable](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3890) # LED Noodle Lantern ## 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/000/115/585/medium800/leds_circuit-diagram-v3.jpg?1664816670) ## Wired Connections LED Noodles – connect each to 10ohm resistor - **Cathode** pin to **GND** pin on QT Py - **Anode** pin to **SCK** , **MI** , **MO** , **A1** , **A2** , **A3** pins on QT Py LED Button - **NC** (normally closed) pin to **A0** pin on QT Py - **COM** (common ground) pin to **GND** pin on QT Py - **LED+** pin to **TX** pin on QT Py - **LED–** pin to **COM** pin on button # LED Noodle Lantern ## CAD Files ## CAD 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: - coupler top.stl - coupler bot.stl - mount plate bot.stl - mount plate top.stl - bottom cover.stl - perma mount.stl - case.stl - battery clip.stl - top cover.stl - handle.stl - noodle holder.stl ![projects_STL-parts.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/689/medium640/projects_STL-parts.jpg?1664924228) [Download STLs V2 zip](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/734/original/Container_STLs.zip?1665010943) [Download CAD source](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/701/original/cad.zip?1664974401) ## Build Volume The parts require a 3D printer with a minimum build volume. - 90mm (X) x 90mm (Y) x 50mm (Z) ![leds_cura-slice.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/674/medium640/leds_cura-slice.jpg?1664909054) ## Plastic Film Sheet Use a sheet of transparent film or PET material to create the outer glass container. Use a hobby knife to cut a piece of film down to size. - 114mm (4.5in) x 200mm (7.8in) - Material Thicknes: 1mm or less ![leds_clear-sheet-thumb.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/678/medium640/leds_clear-sheet-thumb.jpg?1664910796) Warning: ## CAD Assembly Each LED Noodle is press fitted into a holder. The holders are secured together with two standoffs and mounting plates for top and bottom. The main case is secured to the bottom mounting plate. Top and bottom couplers are secured to the accompanying mounting plates. The Perma-Proto circuit is secured to the perma mount. The perma mount is secured to the bottom cover. The bottom cover is secured to the case. The top cover is secured to the top coupler. The handle is secured to the the top cover. ![leds_cad-explode.gif](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/676/medium640thumb/leds_cad-explode.jpg?1664909792) ## 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 boards, displays, connectors and more can be downloaded from the [Adafruit CAD parts GitHub Repo](https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_CAD_Parts). ![leds_4900_QTPY-RP2040.gif](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/675/medium640thumb/leds_4900_QTPY-RP2040.jpg?1664909148) # LED Noodle Lantern ## CircuitPython [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. ## CircuitPython Quickstart Follow this step-by-step to quickly get CircuitPython running on your board. [Download the latest version of CircuitPython for this board via circuitpython.org](https://circuitpython.org/board/adafruit_qtpy_rp2040/) **Click the link above to download the latest CircuitPython UF2 file.** Save it wherever is convenient for you. ![install_circuitpython_on_rp2040_RP2040_UF2_downloaded.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/101/655/medium640/install_circuitpython_on_rp2040_RP2040_UF2_downloaded.jpg?1618943202) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/101/680/medium800/adafruit_products_QTRP_buttons.jpg?1618956837) To enter the bootloader, hold down the **BOOT/**** BOOTSEL button**(highlighted in red above), and while continuing to hold it (don't let go!), press and release the**reset button**(highlighted in red or blue above). **Continue to hold the BOOT/BOOTSEL button until the RPI-RP2 drive appears!** If the drive does not appear, release all the buttons, and then repeat the process above. You can also start with your board unplugged from USB, press and hold the BOOTSEL button (highlighted in red above), continue to hold it while plugging it into USB, and wait for the drive to appear before releasing the button. A lot of people end up using charge-only USB cables and it is very frustrating! **Make sure you have a USB cable you know is good for data sync.** You will see a new disk drive appear called **RPI-RP2**.   Drag the **adafruit\_circuitpython\_etc.uf2** file to **RPI-RP2.** ![install_circuitpython_on_rp2040_RP2040_bootloader_drive.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/101/656/medium640/install_circuitpython_on_rp2040_RP2040_bootloader_drive.jpg?1618943666) ![install_circuitpython_on_rp2040_RP2040_drag_UF2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/101/657/medium640/install_circuitpython_on_rp2040_RP2040_drag_UF2.jpg?1618943674) The **RPI-RP2** drive will disappear and a new disk drive called **CIRCUITPY** will appear. That's it, you're done! :) ![install_circuitpython_on_rp2040_RP2040_CIRCUITPY.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/101/658/medium640/install_circuitpython_on_rp2040_RP2040_CIRCUITPY.jpg?1618943864) ## Safe Mode You want to edit your **code.py** or modify the files on your **CIRCUITPY** drive, but find that you can't. Perhaps your board has gotten into a state where **CIRCUITPY** is read-only. You may have turned off the **CIRCUITPY** drive altogether. Whatever the reason, safe mode can help. Safe mode in CircuitPython does not run any user code on startup, and disables auto-reload. This means a few things. First, safe mode _bypasses any code in_ **boot.py** (where you can set **CIRCUITPY** read-only or turn it off completely). Second, _it does not run the code in_ **code.py**. And finally, _it does not automatically soft-reload when data is written to the_ **CIRCUITPY** _drive_. Therefore, whatever you may have done to put your board in a non-interactive state, safe mode gives you the opportunity to correct it without losing all of the data on the **CIRCUITPY** drive. ### Entering Safe Mode To enter safe mode when using CircuitPython, plug in your board or hit reset (highlighted in red above). Immediately after the board starts up or resets, it waits 1000ms. On some boards, the onboard status LED (highlighted in green above) will blink yellow during that time. If you press reset during that 1000ms, the board will start up in safe mode. It can be difficult to react to the yellow LED, so you may want to think of it simply as a slow double click of the reset button. (Remember, a fast double click of reset enters the bootloader.) ### In Safe Mode If you successfully enter safe mode on CircuitPython, the LED will intermittently blink yellow three times. If you connect to the serial console, you'll find the following message. ```terminal Auto-reload is off. Running in safe mode! Not running saved code. CircuitPython is in safe mode because you pressed the reset button during boot. Press again to exit safe mode. Press any key to enter the REPL. Use CTRL-D to reload. ``` You can now edit the contents of the **CIRCUITPY** drive. Remember, _your code will not run until you press the reset button, or unplug and plug in your board, to get out of safe mode._ ## Flash Resetting UF2 If your board ever gets into a really _weird_ state and CIRCUITPY doesn't show up as a disk drive after installing CircuitPython, try loading this 'nuke' UF2 to RPI-RP2. which will do a 'deep clean' on your Flash Memory. **You will lose all the files on the board** , but at least you'll be able to revive it! After loading this UF2, follow the steps above to re-install CircuitPython. [Download flash erasing "nuke" UF2](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/101/659/original/flash_nuke.uf2?1618945856) # LED Noodle Lantern ## Code the LED Noodle Lantern ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/680/medium800/leds_code-laptop.jpg?1664911532) Once you've finished setting up your QT Py RP2040 with CircuitPython, you can access the code and necessary libraries by downloading the Project Bundle. To do this, click on the ** Download Project Bundle**  button in the window below. It will download as a zipped folder. https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_Learning_System_Guides/blob/main/LED_Noodle_Lantern/code.py ## Upload the Code and Libraries to the QT Py RP2040 After downloading the Project Bundle, plug your QT Py into the computer's USB port with a known good USB data+power cable. You should see a new flash drive appear in the computer's File Explorer or Finder (depending on your operating system) called  **CIRCUITPY**. Unzip the folder and copy the following items to the QT Py RP20402's  **CIRCUITPY**  drive.  - **code.py** Your QT Py RP2040  **CIRCUITPY ** drive should look like this after copying the **code.py ** file. ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/679/medium800/leds_circuitpy-drive.jpg?1664911289) # LED Noodle Lantern ## QT Py Assembly ## Headers for Perma Proto and QT Py Get the male and female stacking headers ready for soldering. Make the following adjustments to the strips of header by trimming them with flush snips. - 2x 1x7 female stacking headers - 2x 1x7 male headers ![leds_qtpy-perma-bff-pcbs.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/595/medium640/leds_qtpy-perma-bff-pcbs.jpg?1664887979) ## Install Headers to QT Py Solder the two 1x7 strips of male headers to the QT Py. Use a breadboard to help keep them sturdy while soldering.  ![leds_qtpy-headers-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/596/medium640/leds_qtpy-headers-install.jpg?1664888039) ## Installing Stacking Headers  To make assembly easier, install the two female stacking headers onto the male headers of the QT Py. ![leds_qtpy-stacking-headers-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/597/medium640/leds_qtpy-stacking-headers-install.jpg?1664888051) ## Install QT Py to Perma Proto Place the stacking headers onto the Perma-Proto board so it's at the edge of the PCB. Solder the stacking header pins to the Perma-Proto. ![leds_qtpy-perma-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/598/medium640/leds_qtpy-perma-install.jpg?1664888084) ## Install Lipo Charger BFF Add-on Place the Lipo Charger BFF onto the back side of the Perma-Proto PCB with the JST port facing the QT Py's USB. Solder the Lipo Charger BFF in place and trim the excess pins short when complete. ![leds_qtpy-bff-perma-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/599/medium640/leds_qtpy-bff-perma-install.jpg?1664888130) Warning: ## Solder Ground Wires Install six 10 ohm resistors to six of the available ground pins on the Perma-Proto. Create a set of six ground wires to be about 13cm (5.12in) in length. Solder each ground wire to the 10 ohm resistors. ![leds_perma-ground-wiring.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/603/medium640/leds_perma-ground-wiring.jpg?1664888442) ## Solder Anode Wires Flip the Perma-Proto PCB for soldering wires. Create a set of six wires (23cm (9in) long) for connecting to the LED noodles anode pin.  Solder each wire to the following pins on the BFF: SCK, MISO, MOSI, A1, A2, A3 Solder a wire to connect the ground pins to the ground pin on the BFF. Solder the three wires from the 3-pin molex cable to pin A0, TX and a ground pin on the BFF. ![perma-leds-wiring.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/602/medium640/perma-leds-wiring.jpg?1664888412) ## Soldered Perma-Proto Double check all of the wires and pins have been properly soldered. Add pieces of heat shrink tubing (or tape) to keep the wires bundled together. ![leds_perma-wired.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/604/medium640/leds_perma-wired.jpg?1664888633) # LED Noodle Lantern ## Noodle Assembly ## Install LED Noodle to Holders Begin inserting the end of the noodle through the opening in the holder and pull it through. Press the silicone filament into the channel of the holder being aware to follow the bend profile.  Fit the end of the noodle through the second opening and pull it taught.  ![leds_nood-holder-install-start.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/591/medium640/leds_nood-holder-install-start.jpg?1664887078) ![leds_nood-holder-install-press.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/592/medium640/leds_nood-holder-install-press.jpg?1664887118) ## Label Ground Ends Use a permanent marker to label the ground end of the LED noodle. The anode end of the LED features a hole and the cathode (ground) does not. ![leds_nood-holder-install-gnd.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/593/medium640/leds_nood-holder-install-gnd.jpg?1664887196) ## Install Noodle Holders Repeat the installation process for all six LED Noodles. Make sure to mark the ground ends of each holder. ![leds_nood-holder-set.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/594/medium640/leds_nood-holder-set.jpg?1664887459) ## Label Mounting Plates Use a permanent marker to label the top and bottom mounting plates. A simple letter like "T" and "B" will suffice. This will help assist in the installation process. ![leds_top-bot-plates-label.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/605/medium640/leds_top-bot-plates-label.jpg?1664888921) ## Install Stand Offs Use two M3 x 8mm long screws to secure the 3D printed standoffs to the top mounting plate. ![leds_plates-standoff-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/606/medium640/leds_plates-standoff-install.jpg?1664889011) ## Install Noodle Holder Begin installing the holders into the top mounting plate with the label facing away. Insert the end of the holder with no marking. Start by inserting the tip of the LED noodle through the square holes in the mounting plate. ![leds_plates-holder-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/607/medium640/leds_plates-holder-install.jpg?1664889050) ## Install All Holders Repeat the installation process and install all six holders to the top mounting plate. ![leds_plates-holder-top-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/608/medium640/leds_plates-holder-top-installed.jpg?1664889088) ## Install Bottom Mounting Plate Begin installing the other end of the holders to the bottom mounting plate. ![leds_plates-holder-bot-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/609/medium640/leds_plates-holder-bot-installed.jpg?1664889126) ## Secure Bottom Mounting Plate Use two M3 x 8mm long screws to secure the bottom mounting plate to the 3D printed stand offs. ![leds_plates-holder-bot-secure.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/610/medium640/leds_plates-holder-bot-secure.jpg?1664889191) ## Secured Holders Double check the holders have been properly installed with all ends matching. If using different colored noodles, take a moment to review the arrangement of the holders. ![leds_plates-holders-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/611/medium640/leds_plates-holders-installed.jpg?1664889275) # LED Noodle Lantern ## Noodle Wiring ## Install Anode Wires Begin inserting the anode wires from the Perma-Proto through the center opening of the bottom mounting plate. ![leds_noodle-bot-wires-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/612/medium640/leds_noodle-bot-wires-install.jpg?1664892030) ## Install Anode Wires Continued Pull the anode wires through the top mounting plate. ![leds_noodle-top-wires-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/613/medium640/leds_noodle-top-wires-install.jpg?1664891808) ## Solder Anode Wires to Noodles Begin soldering each anode wire to the pins on the LED noodles. ![leds_noodle-top-wires-solder.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/614/medium640/leds_noodle-top-wires-solder.jpg?1664892181) ## Soldered Anode Wires Double check all of the anode wires have been properly soldered to the LED noodles. ![leds_noodle-top-wires-soldered.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/615/medium640/leds_noodle-top-wires-soldered.jpg?1664891858) ## Solder Ground Wires Begin soldering each ground wire to the cathode pins on the LED noodles. ![leds_noodle-bot-wires-solder.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/616/medium640/leds_noodle-bot-wires-solder.jpg?1664891875) ## Circuit Test Connect the 3-pin molex cable from the button to the matching cable on Perma-Proto. Then connect the battery to the Lipo Charger BFF.  Use the on/off switch to power the circuit on. All of the LED noodles should slowly fade on and off. Double check the built-in switch on the BFF is in the "on" position. ![leds_noodle-circuit-test.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/617/medium640/leds_noodle-circuit-test.jpg?1664891902) # LED Noodle Lantern ## Handle Assembly ## Hardware for Handle Use the following hardware to secure the handle to the top cover. - 2x M3 x 10mm long screws - 2x M3 hex nuts ![leds_top-handle-screws.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/618/medium640/leds_top-handle-screws.jpg?1664892255) ## Secure Handle Place the handle over the top cover and line up the mounting holes. Insert and fasten M3 screws through the top of the handle. Install M3 hex nuts to secure the handle to the top cover. ![leds_top-handle-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/619/medium640/leds_top-handle-install.jpg?1664892468) ![leds_top-handle-secured.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/623/medium640/leds_top-handle-secured.jpg?1664892458) ## Wiring Button Measure and cut a piece of 3-wire ribbon cable to about 30cm (11.8in) in length. Measure and cut a short wire about 3cm in length. Solder the 3-wire ribbon cable to the pins labeled, COM, NC, LED +. Solder the short wire to connect pins COM and LED–. ![leds_button-cable-solder.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/682/medium640/leds_button-cable-solder.jpg?1664913157) ## Button Cable The 3-wire ribbon cable is spliced to the 3-pin molex cable to make a cable with a length of 33cm (13in).  ![leds_button-cable.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/683/medium640/leds_button-cable.jpg?1664913330) ## Install Button Insert the cable from the button through the center hole in the top cover. Push the button all the way through until it is flush with the top surface. Secure the button to the cover using the included hex nut. Tighten the hex nut to secure the button in place.  The length of the button cable is about 33cm (13in ) long. ![leds_top-button-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/621/medium640/leds_top-button-install.jpg?1664892018) ![leds_top-button-secure.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/622/medium640/leds_top-button-secure.jpg?1664892528) # LED Noodle Lantern ## Assembly ## Hardware for Perma-Proto Mounting Plate Use the following hardware for the Perma-Proto Mounting Plate. - 4x M3 x 10mm standoffs - 4x M3 x 6mm standoffs - 8x M3 x 6mm screws - 4x M3 x 4mm screws ![leds_perma-mount-hardware.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/624/medium640/leds_perma-mount-hardware.jpg?1664893622) ## Install Hardware Secure the M3 x 6mm long standoffs to the outer mounting holes. Then, secure the longer M3 x 10mm standoffs to the inner mounting holes on the other side of the plate. ![leds_perma-mount-short.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/625/medium640/leds_perma-mount-short.jpg?1664893673) ![leds_perma-mount-long.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/626/medium640/leds_perma-mount-long.jpg?1664893708) ## Install Top Coupler Install the top coupler to the top mount and line up the mounting holes. Do not secure the top coupler just yet, it will be removed later in the assembly and reinstalled. ![leds_nood-top-mount-installing.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/627/medium640/leds_nood-top-mount-installing.jpg?1664894259) ![leds_nood-top-mount-holes.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/628/medium640/leds_nood-top-mount-holes.jpg?1664893970) ## Install Cable from Button Begin installing the cable from the button through the center hole of the top mounting plate. Thread the cable through the center and pull it out through the center hole of the bottom mounting plate. Ensure the cable is going through the top coupler and the top mounting plate. ![leds_button-cable-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/629/medium640/leds_button-cable-install.jpg?1664893982) ## Connect Button to Perma-Proto Plug in the cable from the button to the matching cable on the Perma-Proto. ![leds_button-cable-connect.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/630/medium640/leds_button-cable-connect.jpg?1664894009) ## Install Bottom Coupler Begin installing the bottom coupler by inserting the circuit through the center of the part. The bottom coupler should be oriented like shown in the photo. Place the bottom coupler over the bottom mounting plate and line up the mounting holes. The top coupler can be remove at this point to help with the assembly. ![leds_nood-bot-mount-installing.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/631/medium640/leds_nood-bot-mount-installing.jpg?1664895146) ![leds_nood-bot-mount-holes.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/639/medium640/leds_nood-bot-mount-holes.jpg?1664895128) ## Install Casing Begin installing the case by inserting the circuit through the center of the part. The case should be oriented like shown in the photo. The mounting tabs should line up with the mounting holes.  ![leds_case-installing.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/633/medium640/leds_case-installing.jpg?1664895254) ## Secure Case Insert and fasten M3 x 10mm long screws through the top of the bottom mounting plate. The screws should fasten through the bottom mounting plate, bottom couple and the case. Repeat process for the remaining mounting holes. ![leds_case-secure.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/634/medium640/leds_case-secure.jpg?1664894297) ## Install Film Plastic Sheet Begin wrapping the plastic film around the groove in the bottom mounting plate. ![leds_plastic-sheet-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/635/medium640/leds_plastic-sheet-install.jpg?1664894506) ## Wrap Sheet Closed The sheet of plastic film should wrap around the inset wall of the top mounting plate. Use a piece of transparent tape to keep the film from unwrapping.  ![leds_plastic-sheet-wrap.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/636/medium640/leds_plastic-sheet-wrap.jpg?1664894662) ## Install Battery Clip Remove the two screws from the bottom mounting plate. Reinstall the cable from the button along with the top coupler and top cover. Insert the battery clip through the center of the bottom mounting plate. Adjust the anode and button wires so they're fitted through the openings on the side of the clip. Reinstall the two screws to secure the clip to the bottom mounting plate and the two 3D printed stand offs. Slide the cylindrical battery through the center of the battery clip.  ![leds_battery-clip-wires-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/637/medium640/leds_battery-clip-wires-install.jpg?1664895952) ![leds_battery-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/638/medium640/leds_battery-install.jpg?1664895107) ## Install Top Coupler Fit the top coupler through the top mounting plate and the sheet of plastic film. ![leds_top-plastic-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/640/medium640/leds_top-plastic-install.jpg?1664895157) ## Secure Top Coupler Insert and fasten M3 x 8mm long screws through the mounting tabs to secure the top coupler to the top mounting plate.   ![leds_top-plastic-cover-secure.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/641/medium640/leds_top-plastic-cover-secure.jpg?1664895186) ## Install Top Cover Begin placing the top cover over the top coupler and pull the cable from the button from the bottom to avoid pinching. Twist the top cover clockwise secure it to the top coupler.  Hold onto the top coupler while screwing on the top cover. ![leds_top-handle-preinstall.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/642/medium640/leds_top-handle-preinstall.jpg?1664895215) ![leds_top-handle-cover-secured.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/643/medium640/leds_top-handle-cover-secured.jpg?1664895235) ## Final Circuit Test Run through a last circuit test to ensure all of the connections are still working properly. ![leds_noodle-circuit-test-final.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/644/medium640/leds_noodle-circuit-test-final.jpg?1664895382) ## Secure Perma-Proto Place the Perma-Proto PCB over the standoffs on the mounting plate with the mounting holes lined up. Use M3x 6mm long screws to screw the Perma-Proto to the mounting plate. ![leds_perma-mount-secured.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/645/medium640/leds_perma-mount-secured.jpg?1664895529) ## Cable Adjust Take a moment to adjust any of the wires or cables to better fit with the Perma-Proto mounting plate. ![leds_perma-final-check.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/646/medium640/leds_perma-final-check.jpg?1664895678) ## Secure Mount to Bottom Place the Perma-Proto mounting plate into the bottom cover with the mounting holes lined up.  Use four M3x 4mm long screws to secure the perma-Proto mounting plate to the bottom cover. ![leds_perma-bottom-secure.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/647/medium640/leds_perma-bottom-secure.jpg?1664895679) ![leds_perma-bottom-topview.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/648/medium640/leds_perma-bottom-topview.jpg?1664895784) ## Install Bottom Cover Fit the bottom cover into the case and line up the QT PY's USB port with the opening on the side.   ![leds_case-bottom-installing.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/649/medium640/leds_case-bottom-installing.jpg?1664895797) ## Secure Bottom Cover Use 4x M3x4mm long screws to secure the bottom cover to the case. ![leds_case-bottom-secure.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/115/650/medium640/leds_case-bottom-secure.jpg?1664895825) ## Final Build Take a moment check all of the screws have been fully tightened. 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