# NeoTrellis Feather Case Assembly

## Overview

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/166/medium800/led_matrices_trellis-beauty-shot.jpg?1567006093)

Our Trellis Feather acrylic enclosures are such dense little packages that we put together this guide to help with assembly.

These are sold as both a case+hardware kit (bring your own Trellis, Feather and STEMMA cable), or a more complete kit with Feather M4 and additional parts.

- **[4x4 Enclosure + Hardware Kit](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4339)** (bring-your-own Feather)
- [**4x4 Feather M4 Kit Pack**](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4352)
- [**8x8 Enclosure + Hardware Kit**](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4372) (bring-your-own Feather)
- **[8x8 Feather M4 Kit Pack](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1929)**

**Other tools and skills required:**

- Cutting and stripping wires
- [Soldering](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-guide-excellent-soldering)
- Small Phillips head screwdriver

## Two Ways to Build

One way to build this Trellis kit is as a “ **tethered** ” device — it operates **only when a USB cable is plugged in**. This is how the Feather M4 Kit Pack is sold.

Another option is as a **wireless, battery-operated device**. This requires the addition of a **[panel-mount switch](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3220)** and a **lithium-polymer battery** , not included in the standard kit. This also implies using a **wireless-capable** [Feather](https://www.adafruit.com/category/835) board…most likely one with **Bluetooth** support (such as [nRF52](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4062) or [ESP32](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3405)) to create a wireless keypad for a desktop or laptop computer. But, as an open-source device, there’s nothing _discouraging_ you from creating unique wireless projects, if you want to make some kind of WiFi or [LoRa](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3178) [remote trigger](https://learn.adafruit.com/remote-effects-trigger).

**Tips when using the case-only kit (building your own project):**

1. For Feathers without a STEMMA QT port:

- This **[4-pin STEMMA cable](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3955)** simplifies soldering, and provides just enough extra wire to complete the project. (Included with M4 kit packs.) Use a Feather board without headers installed.

2. For Feathers with a STEMMA QT port (becoming more common on newer Feathers):

- Use a [STEMMA QT to STEMMA QT](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4401) cable of the length you need.

## Parts
For **4x4** NeoTrellis projects:

### Adafruit 4x4 NeoTrellis Feather M4 Kit Pack

[Adafruit 4x4 NeoTrellis Feather M4 Kit Pack](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4352)
We've upgraded our popular 4x4 Trellis Keypad kit with a&nbsp;super-specifically-laser-cut enclosure that&nbsp;turns your 4x4 'Trellis into a handheld Feather M4 Express-powered light/music maker!&nbsp;Perfect for your next cool interface, MIDI instrument, control panel... whatever...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4352)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4352/guides)
![Hand pressing buttons on assembled Trellis Feather Kit](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/product-videos/640x480/4352-08.jpg)

### Adafruit 4x4 Trellis Feather Acrylic Enclosure + Hardware Kit

[Adafruit 4x4 Trellis Feather Acrylic Enclosure + Hardware Kit](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4339)
A&nbsp;super-specifically-laser-cut enclosure that&nbsp;turns your 4x4 'Trellis into a handheld light/music maker!&nbsp;Perfect for your next cool interface, MIDI instrument, control panel... whatever could benefit from a glow-up with an elegant&nbsp;black and white enclosure _and_...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4339)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4339/guides)
![Acrylic enclosure pieces and black, plastic hardware for a 4x4 keypad. ](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/4339-00.jpg)

For **8x8** NeoTrellis projects:

### Adafruit 8x8 NeoTrellis Feather M4 Kit Pack

[Adafruit 8x8 NeoTrellis Feather M4 Kit Pack](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1929)
We've upgraded our popular UNTZtrument with a total make-over, and it's been reborn as the NeoTrellis 8x8 Kit pack. This open-source 8x8 Grid Controller Kit with a&nbsp;super-specifically-laser-cut enclosure turns four panels of 4x4 NeoTrellis's into a handheld Feather M4...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1929)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/1929/guides)
![Hand pressing buttons that light up on a Adafruit 8x8 NeoTrellis Feather M4 Kit Pack.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/product-videos/640x480/1929-08.jpg)

### Adafruit 8x8 Trellis Feather M4 Acrylic Enclosure + Hardware Kit

[Adafruit 8x8 Trellis Feather M4 Acrylic Enclosure + Hardware Kit](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4372)
A&nbsp;super-specifically-laser-cut enclosure that&nbsp;turns your 8x8 'Trellis into a handheld light/music maker!&nbsp;Perfect for your next cool interface, MIDI instrument, control panel... whatever could benefit from a glow-up with an elegant&nbsp;black and white enclosure _and_...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4372)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4372/guides)
![Adafruit 8x8 Trellis Feather M4 Acrylic Enclosure + Hardware Kit showing contents](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/4372-00.jpg)

For **all** NeoTrellis projects:

### JST PH 2mm 4-Pin to Male Header Cable - I2C STEMMA Cable - 200mm

[JST PH 2mm 4-Pin to Male Header Cable - I2C STEMMA Cable - 200mm](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3955)
This cable will let you turn a JST PH 4-pin cable port into 4 individual wires with high-quality 0.1" male header plugs on the end. We're carrying these to match up with any of our boards with 'STEMMA' connectors on them such as the&nbsp;<a...></a...>

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3955)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3955/guides)
![Angled shot of STEMMA JST PH 4-Pin to Male Header Cable - 200mm.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/3955-02.jpg)

or if you happen to use a Feather with a built-on STEMMA QT connector like the [Adafruit Feather RP2040 Adalogger - 8MB Flash with microSD Card - STEMMA QT / Qwiic](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5980), [Adafruit ESP32 Feather V2 - 8MB Flash + 2 MB PSRAM - STEMMA QT](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5400), or several others, you can use a STEMMA QT to STEMMA QT cable:

### STEMMA QT / Qwiic JST SH 4-Pin Cable - 200mm Long

[STEMMA QT / Qwiic JST SH 4-Pin Cable - 200mm Long](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4401)
This 4-wire cable is a little over 200mm / 7.8" long and fitted with JST-SH female 4-pin connectors on both ends. Compared with the chunkier JST-PH these are 1mm pitch instead of 2mm, but still have a nice latching feel, while being easy to insert and remove.

<a...></a...>

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4401)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4401/guides)
![Angled shot of JST SH 4-Pin Cable - 200mm Long.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/4401-04.jpg)

For **wireless** NeoTrellis projects (use **500mAh** battery for **4x4** NeoTrellis, **2500mAh** for **8x8** NeoTrellis):

### Lithium Ion Polymer Battery - 3.7v 500mAh

[Lithium Ion Polymer Battery - 3.7v 500mAh](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1578)
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 500mAh for a total of about 1.9 Wh. If you need a larger (or smaller!) battery, <a...></a...>

Out of Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1578)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/1578/guides)
![Angled shot of a Lithium Ion Polymer Battery 3.7V 500mAh with JST-PH connector.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/1578-03.jpg)

### Lithium Ion Polymer Battery - 3.7v 2500mAh

[Lithium Ion Polymer Battery - 3.7v 2500mAh](https://www.adafruit.com/product/328)
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 **2500mAh** for a total of about 10 Wh. If you need a smaller battery, <a...></a...>

Out of Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/328)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/328/guides)
![Lithium Ion Polymer Battery 3.7v 2500mAh with JST 2-PH connector](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/328-06.jpg)

### Mini Panel Mount DPDT Toggle Switch

[Mini Panel Mount DPDT Toggle Switch](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3220)
This or that, one or the other, perhaps or perhaps not! So hard to make decisions these days without feeling like you're just going back and forth constantly. Deciding whether or not to use this mini toggle switch? That's the easiest decision you'll make all day!

This...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3220)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3220/guides)
![Angled shot of blue, mini, SPDT toggle switch.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/3220-01.jpg)

### 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)

### Adafruit HUZZAH32 – ESP32 Feather Board

[Adafruit HUZZAH32 – ESP32 Feather Board](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3405)
Aww yeah, it's the Feather you have been waiting for! The **HUZZAH32** is our ESP32-based Feather, made with the official WROOM32 module. We packed everything you love about Feathers: built in USB-to-Serial converter, automatic bootloader reset, Lithium Ion/Polymer charger,...

Out of Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3405)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3405/guides)
![Angled shot of black, rectangular microcontroller.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/3405-08.jpg)

# NeoTrellis Feather Case Assembly

## Prep Work

## Prep Work
Peel the backing paper off both sides of all the laser-cut parts (11 in the 4x4 kit, 15 in the 8x8 kit). It’s easiest to start at a corner, catching the edge of the paper with a fingernail.

The laser-cutting process can leave some paper soot at the edges. If you like, wash these parts off with soap and water, just be **absolutely certain** that all the parts are **completely dry** before assembling!

**Use only soap and water when cleaning these parts.** Some chemicals, including rubbing alcohol and alcohol wipes, will damage the plastic!

![leds_prep1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/126/medium640/leds_prep1.jpg?1566952239)

![leds_prep2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/127/medium640/leds_prep2.jpg?1566952244)

If using the **[STEMMA cable](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3955)**, cut it **in half** along its length, strip and tin the ends of the wires.

For a **tethered device** , you only need the half with the plug.

For a **wireless device** , save the other half. Clip off the header pins, strip and tin _both ends_ of these wires.

You can still build the kit if you don’t have the STEMMA cable but have other wire around…you’ll be soldering directly to the pads on the edges of the Trellis board in that case, it’s not quite as plug-in simple.

![leds_wires1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/144/medium640/leds_wires1.jpg?1566952511)

![leds_wires2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/145/medium640/leds_wires2.jpg?1566952516)

# NeoTrellis Feather Case Assembly

## Soldering

## Soldering the Components

Only a few connections are required. Notice however, this project has wires connected from the _opposite side_ than you might normally expect: they approach from _under_ the board and are _soldered on top_.

# Tethered (USB Only) Connections

These are the connections for a **tethered** project (no battery or power switch):

STEMMA Wire Color (or Trellis Edge Pad) -&nbsp;Feather Pin

- **Black** ( **GND** ) - **GND**
- **Red (VIN) - USB**
- **White (SDA) - SDA**
- **Green (SCL) - SCL**

Here’s how the wiring looks with a STEMMA cable on a Feather M4 board to be used in a “tethered” configuration.

**Wires approach from the _bottom_ and are soldered _on top._ This is important later.**

![leds_solder-unswitched-bottom.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/129/medium640/leds_solder-unswitched-bottom.jpg?1566952277)

![leds_solder-unswitched-top.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/130/medium640/leds_solder-unswitched-top.jpg?1566952283)

# Standalone Connections

A **wireless** &nbsp;or standalone configuration requires adding a battery and&nbsp; **DPDT** panel-mount switch. The latter has six pins, but we’ll only be using **four**. The pinout is symmetrical, doesn’t matter if you have it turned 180°.

Three extra wires are required. If using the STEMMA cable, the trimmed-off bits are just long enough for this.

_A wireless Trellis can still operate over USB if desired, but still must use the power switch regardless._

Notice there are **two GND connections** &nbsp;that must be made to the Feather board. More on that in a moment…

Here’s a back-side view of the switch, showing where wires will connect.

![leds_switch-diagram.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/146/medium640/leds_switch-diagram.jpg?1566953666)

Here’s how the wiring looks with a STEMMA cable on a board to be used in a wireless configuration.

**Wires approach from the _bottom_ and are soldered _on top._ This is important later.**

![leds_solder-switched-bottom.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/132/medium640/leds_solder-switched-bottom.jpg?1566952328)

![leds_solder-switched-top.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/134/medium640/leds_solder-switched-top.jpg?1566952338)

Some Feather boards have a **single GND pin** , others have more than one.

A **switched** project requires **two** GND connections. If your Feather only has one GND pin, the STEMMA wires are thin enough that you can twist two together before tinning the ends, and still have it fit through the single GND connection.

![leds_solder-two-grounds.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/135/medium640/leds_solder-two-grounds.jpg?1566952362)

# NeoTrellis 8x8 Kit Only

If building an **8x8** setup, some extra soldering steps are required…

An 8x8 setup is comprised of four 4x4 NeoTrellis…es? NeoTrelli?

Use blobs of solder across the A0–A4 pads to assign each 4x4 NeoTrellis a unique I2C address. Usually this involves leaving one untouched, bridging “A0” on the second, “A1” on the third, and both A0+A1 on the fourth (though you can use whatever combination you want, as long as each is **unique** …it’s configurable in software).

The four sub-Trelloids then need to be soldered together by joining the five pads along their common edges (SDA, SCL, etc.). Although it’s _possible_ to do this with just solder alone, you’ll likely find it both easier and more durable to solder small pieces of bare wire across these pads.

![led_matrices_8x8-pads-1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/084/061/medium640/led_matrices_8x8-pads-1.jpg?1573532445)

![led_matrices_8x8-pads-2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/084/062/medium640/led_matrices_8x8-pads-2.jpg?1573532455)

That’s it for the soldering! You can switch off your iron now.

Trim away any excess wire protruding from the top of the board.

For wireless projects, plug in the LiPoly battery and confirm that the Feather board’s power LED turns on with the switch in one position, and that the yellow charge LED is on when connected to USB.

# NeoTrellis Feather Case Assembly

## Case Build

The photographs here mostly depict the 4x4 case being assembled. 8x8 is similar enough (just a few extra pieces) that we’ll just highlight the differences where necessary.

For a **wireless** project, the switch _must_ be installed though this piece in a particular back-to-front direction. It’s a bit too much to describe in words, so have a look at the photographs, making sure your parts are oriented the same way.

The locking washer and nut go “on top.”&nbsp;Also, the switch has a small protrusion which fits through a corresponding hole on this piece. This keeps the switch from spinning around when you tighten the nut.

Tethered projects do not require the switch, you may ignore this step.

![leds_switch-align-1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/136/medium640/leds_switch-align-1.jpg?1566952400)

![leds_switch-align-2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/137/medium640/leds_switch-align-2.jpg?1566952405)

## All Your Base

## We’ll start from the bottom and work up…
Collect all the **M2.5** hardware…this includes the **four** smaller **screws** and **nuts** , plus **four standoffs**.

![leds_m-2-5.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/110/medium640/leds_m-2-5.jpg?1566951971)

What’s peculiar about this case is that the Feather board sits **face down** …it’s _behind_ the acrylic here. Turn this bottom piece over and around until you find the orientation that fits the battery socket, reset button and all four mounting holes, like in the picture.

The board installs upside-down like this so the reset button is still accessible with a pen or screwdriver!

![leds_base1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/148/medium640/leds_base1.jpg?1566954536)

Insert **four M2.5 screws** , turn the base piece over and lay it on your work surface (temporarily tape over the screw heads if you have difficulty with this step).

Add **four spacers** , lay the Feather board **face-down** over the screws, then add **four nuts**.

![leds_base2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/112/medium640/leds_base2.jpg?1566952042)

![leds_base3.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/113/medium640/leds_base3.jpg?1566952047)

![leds_base4.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/114/medium640/leds_base4.jpg?1566952051)

![leds_base5.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/115/medium640/leds_base5.jpg?1566952058)

On some Feather boards, two mounting holes are partially obscured by the wireless module.

In this situation, it’s okay to use only the **two mounting holes** near the USB port.

![leds_base-2hole-1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/094/medium640/leds_base-2hole-1.jpg?1566951607)

![leds_base-2hole-2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/095/medium640/leds_base-2hole-2.jpg?1566951613)

Next you’ll need these **four threaded standoffs** , and four of the eight **M3 screws**.

The screws come up from below the case, with the standoffs on top. It’s the same for a tethered or a wireless project.

![leds_posts1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/123/medium640/leds_posts1.jpg?1566952198)

![leds_posts2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/124/medium640/leds_posts2.jpg?1566952203)

![leds_posts3.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/125/medium640/leds_posts3.jpg?1566952208)

## Sides

These case pieces don’t have labels or specific names…but they do have distinct shapes that fit a certain way.

Pay attention to the slots and tabs on each piece, and refer to the photos to get each item in its correct position.

The case is double-walled in order to hold the Trellis board in place. We’ll do the “inner” walls first…

Look for these two side pieces and slot them into the base. Then the front and back inner walls will slot into these. If it’s a wireless project, one of these inner walls will have the switch attached. It fits into a cutout in the base.

![leds_inner1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/106/medium640/leds_inner1.jpg?1566951880)

![leds_inner2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/107/medium640/leds_inner2.jpg?1566951886)

![leds_inner3.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/108/medium640/leds_inner3.jpg?1566951892)

![leds_inner4.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/109/medium640/leds_inner4.jpg?1566951898)

The **8x8** case is similar, but has **four extra pieces** providing some support down the middle.

These smaller horizontal and vertical supports are keyed in such a way to only fit in their corresponding holes. You’ll want to do the vertical supports and sides first, then add the horizontal supports. Then continue just like a 4x4 case.

It will all seem a little wobbly at this stage. That’s normal. Once the NeoTrellis and top case are installed, everything becomes much more solid.

![led_matrices_8x8-sides-1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/084/063/medium640/led_matrices_8x8-sides-1.jpg?1573532999)

![led_matrices_8x8-sides-2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/084/064/medium640/led_matrices_8x8-sides-2.jpg?1573533009)

![led_matrices_8x8-sides-3.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/084/065/medium640/led_matrices_8x8-sides-3.jpg?1573533020)

For a wireless project, there’s just enough space for a 500 mAh LiPoly battery in the corner away from the Feather and switch. (Up to 2500 mAh on the 8x8 NeoTrellis, positioned at center.)

Double-stick tape — either the foam or cellophane type — can help keep this in place during assembly. Not absolutely vital, just handy if it’s something you have.

![leds_batt1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/102/medium640/leds_batt1.jpg?1566951787)

![leds_batt2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/103/medium640/leds_batt2.jpg?1566951793)

The outer walls install in a similar order. But, with the inner walls in place, these outer pieces won’t just drop into place…you’ll need to tilt them up into place, or lift the inner pieces slightly to get all the tabs and slots to lock.

![leds_outer1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/117/medium640/leds_outer1.jpg?1566952119)

![leds_outer2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/118/medium640/leds_outer2.jpg?1566952124)

![leds_outer3.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/119/medium640/leds_outer3.jpg?1566952128)

![leds_outer4.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/120/medium640/leds_outer4.jpg?1566952133)

Plug the STEMMA connector into the NeoTrellis socket.

(If you built without the STEMMA cable, the NeoTrellis board will already be attached to the Feather and/or switch directly, using the edge solder pads.)

![leds_plug1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/121/medium640/leds_plug1.jpg?1566952162)

![leds_plug2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/122/medium640/leds_plug2.jpg?1566952167)

Before closing it up, this is a good opportunity to connect a USB cable and confirm once more (now with the Trellis connected) that the Feather board powers on and (if building a wireless project) that the switch works and the battery charge LED comes on.

## Top Layers
Orient the enclosure so the **USB port** is at the **top** , then carefully work the Trellis PCB into position, minding any pinched wires as you go.

**The numbers on the Trellis PCB should appear upside-down with respect to the case, i.e. “16” will be at the top-left.** You may need to adjust for this in software. This provides clearances for the parts inside with the slimmest possible case.

![leds_orient.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/116/medium640/leds_orient.jpg?1566952080)

### Compensating for NeoTrellis Orientation

The orientation of the NeoTrellis PCB inside the case requires adopting one of two strategies…EITHER:

- Operate the NeoTrellis case with the **USB port at the bottom/front** (no big deal for wireless, but might be strange for a USB-tethered project). **OR…**
- Keep the USB port at the top/back and **compensate for the rotation in software**. Pixel/button 0 is at the bottom-right now. To remap button #_n_ from old to new orientation, use 15-_n_ instead.

Carefully now…lower the Trellis PCB until it **sits flush** against the inner walls. You’ll probably need to stuff some wires back in using the tip of a screwdriver. If anything is pinching or binding…stop, lift up the Trellis board, find what’s tangled and give it another go. **Don’t force anything.**

![leds_fight1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/104/medium640/leds_fight1.jpg?1566951837)

![leds_fight2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/105/medium640/leds_fight2.jpg?1566951843)

Install the elastomer button pad over the Trellis PCB. This pad has little “nurnies” that lock into corresponding holes on the PCB, so it has to be turned a certain way before it will sit flush.

Then add the top clear piece. This will probably require a little wiggling to get all the tabs and slots to lock together.

Finally, add the topmost black layer.

![leds_top1.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/139/medium640/leds_top1.jpg?1566952450)

![leds_top2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/140/medium640/leds_top2.jpg?1566952465)

![leds_top3.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/141/medium640/leds_top3.jpg?1566952471)

The top is held in place with the remaining **four M3 screws**. It’s easier once the first screw is in place…you won’t need to keep holding it together like a sandwich.

![leds_top4.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/142/medium640/leds_top4.jpg?1566952487)

![leds_top5.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/155/medium640/leds_top5.jpg?1566966095)

Add four self-stick rubber “toe beans” to the bottom so it stays in place on your desk.

**You’re done!**

![leds_toebeans.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/138/medium640/leds_toebeans.jpg?1566952423)

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/080/147/medium800/leds_trellis-beauty-shot.jpg?1566953858)

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/084/066/medium800/led_matrices_4372-02.jpg?1573533469)

# NeoTrellis Feather Case Assembly

## Downloads

You can laser cut your own enclosure — or make modifications with the following vector files — from acrylic (or other laser-compatible materials) in any colors you wish!

 **This ZIP file contains .SVG files for both the 4x4 and 8x8 NeoTrellis Feather Cases:**

[Feather-Trellis-Cases.zip](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/084/502/original/Feather-Trellis-Cases.zip?1574052468)
“Feather Trellis 4x4 Clear.svg” and “Feather Trellis 4x4 Black.svg” are the two files we use when producing a 4x4 NeoTrellis Feather case in 1/8" (3mm) clear and 1/16" (1.5mm) black acrylic, respectively…of course you can use whatever colors you choose (fluorescent acrylic is pretty rad).

“Feather Trellis 8x8 Clear.svg” and “Feather Trellis 8x8 Black.svg” are the same for an 8x8 NeoTrellis Feather case.

The following Github repositories include files relevant in the production of NeoTrellis PCBs and elastomers:

- [NeoTrellis PCBs (Eagle format)](https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit-NeoTrellis-4x4-PCB)
- [CAD files for Trellis elastomers](https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_Trellis "Link: https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit\_Trellis")


## Featured Products

### Adafruit 4x4 NeoTrellis Feather M4 Kit Pack

[Adafruit 4x4 NeoTrellis Feather M4 Kit Pack](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4352)
We've upgraded our popular 4x4 Trellis Keypad kit with a&nbsp;super-specifically-laser-cut enclosure that&nbsp;turns your 4x4 'Trellis into a handheld Feather M4 Express-powered light/music maker!&nbsp;Perfect for your next cool interface, MIDI instrument, control panel... whatever...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4352)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4352/guides)
### Adafruit 8x8 NeoTrellis Feather M4 Kit Pack

[Adafruit 8x8 NeoTrellis Feather M4 Kit Pack](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1929)
We've upgraded our popular UNTZtrument with a total make-over, and it's been reborn as the NeoTrellis 8x8 Kit pack. This open-source 8x8 Grid Controller Kit with a&nbsp;super-specifically-laser-cut enclosure turns four panels of 4x4 NeoTrellis's into a handheld Feather M4...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1929)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/1929/guides)
### Adafruit 4x4 Trellis Feather Acrylic Enclosure + Hardware Kit

[Adafruit 4x4 Trellis Feather Acrylic Enclosure + Hardware Kit](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4339)
A&nbsp;super-specifically-laser-cut enclosure that&nbsp;turns your 4x4 'Trellis into a handheld light/music maker!&nbsp;Perfect for your next cool interface, MIDI instrument, control panel... whatever could benefit from a glow-up with an elegant&nbsp;black and white enclosure _and_...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4339)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4339/guides)
### Adafruit 8x8 Trellis Feather M4 Acrylic Enclosure + Hardware Kit

[Adafruit 8x8 Trellis Feather M4 Acrylic Enclosure + Hardware Kit](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4372)
A&nbsp;super-specifically-laser-cut enclosure that&nbsp;turns your 8x8 'Trellis into a handheld light/music maker!&nbsp;Perfect for your next cool interface, MIDI instrument, control panel... whatever could benefit from a glow-up with an elegant&nbsp;black and white enclosure _and_...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4372)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4372/guides)
### Mini Panel Mount DPDT Toggle Switch

[Mini Panel Mount DPDT Toggle Switch](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3220)
This or that, one or the other, perhaps or perhaps not! So hard to make decisions these days without feeling like you're just going back and forth constantly. Deciding whether or not to use this mini toggle switch? That's the easiest decision you'll make all day!

This...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3220)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3220/guides)
### JST PH 2mm 4-Pin to Male Header Cable - I2C STEMMA Cable - 200mm

[JST PH 2mm 4-Pin to Male Header Cable - I2C STEMMA Cable - 200mm](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3955)
This cable will let you turn a JST PH 4-pin cable port into 4 individual wires with high-quality 0.1" male header plugs on the end. We're carrying these to match up with any of our boards with 'STEMMA' connectors on them such as the&nbsp;<a...></a...>

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3955)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3955/guides)
### Lithium Ion Polymer Battery - 3.7v 500mAh

[Lithium Ion Polymer Battery - 3.7v 500mAh](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1578)
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 500mAh for a total of about 1.9 Wh. If you need a larger (or smaller!) battery, <a...></a...>

Out of Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1578)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/1578/guides)
### 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)

## Related Guides

- [Adafruit HUZZAH32 - ESP32 Feather](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-huzzah32-esp32-feather.md)
- [Introducing the Adafruit nRF52840 Feather](https://learn.adafruit.com/introducing-the-adafruit-nrf52840-feather.md)
- [Pulse Oximeter Wireless Data Logger](https://learn.adafruit.com/pulse-oximeter-wireless-data-logger.md)
- [Wirelessly Code your Bluetooth Device with CircuitPython](https://learn.adafruit.com/wirelessly-code-your-bluetooth-device-with-circuitpython.md)
- [What is Web MIDI & BLE MIDI?](https://learn.adafruit.com/web-ble-midi.md)
- [Adafruit NeoTrellis](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-neotrellis.md)
- [Touch Deck: DIY Customizable TFT Control Pad](https://learn.adafruit.com/touch-deck-diy-tft-customized-control-pad.md)
- [Mouse and Keyboard Control Using TinyUSB and BLE](https://learn.adafruit.com/mouse-and-keyboard-control-using-tinyusb-and-ble.md)
- [BLE HID Keyboard Buttons with CircuitPython](https://learn.adafruit.com/ble-hid-keyboard-buttons-with-circuitpython.md)
- [No-Code IoT Door Alarm with WipperSnapper](https://learn.adafruit.com/no-code-iot-door-alarm-with-wippersnapper.md)
- [BLE Sniffer with nRF52840](https://learn.adafruit.com/ble-sniffer-with-nrf52840.md)
- [BLE Light Switch with Feather nRF52840 and Crickit](https://learn.adafruit.com/bluetooth-light-switch-with-crickit-and-nrf52840.md)
- [Multi-tasking with CircuitPython](https://learn.adafruit.com/multi-tasking-with-circuitpython.md)
- [Getting Started with CircuitPython and Bluetooth Low Energy](https://learn.adafruit.com/circuitpython-nrf52840.md)
- [All the Internet of Things - Episode Three: Services](https://learn.adafruit.com/all-the-internet-of-things-episode-three-services.md)
- [Busy Box Interruption Sign](https://learn.adafruit.com/busy-box-interruption-sign.md)
- [TIMESQUARE Watch Kit](https://learn.adafruit.com/timesquare-watch-kit.md)
