# Square NeoPixel Display with Black LED Acrylic

## Overview

https://youtu.be/4H8o8JusweA

## NeoMatrix Square Pixels

Build a square pixel display with Adafruit's 8x8 NeoMatrix and Feather M4. Use Black LED acrylic and 3D printed grid to create an evenly diffused LED effect. Electronics are housed in an elegant looking snap fit case with built-in on/off switch. LED animations are easily customizable with CircuitPython.

![led_matrices_hero-hand-holding.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/144/medium640/led_matrices_hero-hand-holding.jpg?1597671938)

## Parts
### Adafruit Feather M4 Express - Featuring ATSAMD51

[Adafruit Feather M4 Express - Featuring ATSAMD51](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3857)
It's what you've been waiting for, the Feather M4 Express featuring ATSAMD51. This Feather is fast like a swift, smart like an owl, strong like a ox-bird (it's half ox, half bird, OK?) This feather is powered by our new favorite chip, the **ATSAMD51J19** -&nbsp; with...

Out of Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3857)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3857/guides)
![Angled shot of a Adafruit Feather M4 Express. ](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/3857-10.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 NeoMatrix 8x8 - 64 RGB LED Pixel Matrix

[Adafruit NeoPixel NeoMatrix 8x8 - 64 RGB LED Pixel Matrix](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1487)
Put on your sunglasses before wiring up this LED matrix - 64 eye-blistering RGB LEDs adorn the NeoMatrix for a blast of configurable color. Arranged in an 8x8 matrix, each pixel is individually addressable. Only one microcontroller pin is required to control all the LEDs, and you get 24 bit...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1487)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/1487/guides)
![Adafruit NeoPixel NeoMatrix 8x8 - 64 RGB LED Pixel Matrix lit up rainbow](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/1487-00.jpg)

### FeatherWing Proto - Prototyping Add-on For All Feather Boards

[FeatherWing Proto - Prototyping Add-on For All Feather Boards](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2884)
A Feather board without ambition is a Feather board without FeatherWings!

This is the **FeatherWing Proto** - a prototyping add-on for all Feather boards. Using our [Feather Stacking Headers](https://www.adafruit.com/products/2830) or <a...></a...>

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2884)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2884/guides)
![Angled Shot of the FeatherWing Proto - Prototyping Add-on For All Feather Boards.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/2884-13.jpg)

### Part: 1200mAh Battery
quantity: 1
3.7V Lipo Battery
[1200mAh Battery](https://www.adafruit.com/product/258)

### Part: Slide Switch
quantity: 1
Slide Switch
[Slide Switch](https://www.adafruit.com/product/805)

### Part: Header Kit for Feathers
quantity: 1
12-pin and 16-pin Female Headers
[Header Kit for Feathers](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2886)

### Part: 10-Wire Ribbon Cable
quantity: 1
28AWG Silicone Cover Stranded Core
[10-Wire Ribbon Cable](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3890)

### Part: JST PH 3-pin Plug-Plug Cable
quantity: 1
100mm long
[JST PH 3-pin Plug-Plug Cable](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4336)

### Part: JST PH 3-Pin Socket
quantity: 1
Color Coded Cable - 200mm
[JST PH 3-Pin Socket](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4046)

### Part: M2.5 Hardware Kit
quantity: 1
Black Nylon Screw and Stand-off Set
[M2.5 Hardware Kit](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3299)

### Part: USB Cable
quantity: 1
Fully Reversible Pink/Purple USB A to micro B Cable - 1m
[USB Cable](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4111)

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/146/medium800/led_matrices_hero-shelf.jpg?1597672001)

# Square NeoPixel Display with Black LED Acrylic

## 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/000/094/085/medium800/led_matrices_circuit-diagram.jpg?1597427874)

## Wired Connections

The Feather M4 Express is installed on top of the Proto FeatherWing using Headers. The NeoMatrix is wired to the Proto FeatherWing so that the Feather can be easily swapped.

- 5V from NeoMatrix to 3V on Proto FeatherWing
- GND from NeoMatrix to GND on Proto FeatherWing
- DIN from NeoMatrix to Pin #6 on Proto FeatherWing
- Switch to EN and GND on Proto FeatherWing

## 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 lipo battery is rechargeable via the USB port on the board. The switch is wired to the **enable** &nbsp;and&nbsp; **ground** pins on the board.

# Square NeoPixel Display with Black LED Acrylic

## 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**

- cover.stl
- pcb-mount.stl
- neomatrix-grid.stl
- acrylic.stl

![led_matrices_3d-parts.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/136/medium640/led_matrices_3d-parts.jpg?1597589916)

[Fusion 30 Share Link](https://a360.co/322WYRJ)
[Download CAD files from Prusa Printers](https://www.prusaprinters.org/prints/38777-neomatrix-square-led-pixel-display)
[Download CAD files from Thingiverse](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4572442)
## CAD assembly

The Proto FeatherWing is secured to the pcb-mount with M2.5 hardware screws (standoffs are optional). The Feather M4 snaps into the female headers on the Proto FeatherWing. The NeoMatrix is fitted into the built-in standoffs in the pcb-mount. The neomatrix-grid is fitted over the NeoMatrix PCB. The piece of acrylic is placed inside the cover. The cover is fitted over the neomatrix-grid and snap fits onto the edges of the pcb-mount.

![led_matrices_cad-explode.gif](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/150/medium640thumb/led_matrices_cad-explode.jpg?1597672297)

## 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_matrices_cura-slice.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/151/medium640/led_matrices_cura-slice.jpg?1597672580)

## 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_matrices_neomatrix-8x8.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/152/medium640/led_matrices_neomatrix-8x8.jpg?1597672614)

# Square NeoPixel Display with Black LED Acrylic

## CircuitPython on Feather M4 Express

[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_m4_express/)
 **Click the link above and download the latest UF2 file.**

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

![arduino_compatibles_FeatherM0ExpressUF2Downloaded.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/057/318/medium640/arduino_compatibles_FeatherM0ExpressUF2Downloaded.png?1531152402)

Plug your Feather M4 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. 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!

![arduino_compatibles_FeatherM0Bootloader.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/057/320/medium640/arduino_compatibles_FeatherM0Bootloader.jpg?1531152568)

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

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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

![arduino_compatibles_FeatherM0FEATHERBOOT.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/057/321/medium640/arduino_compatibles_FeatherM0FEATHERBOOT.png?1531152779)

![arduino_compatibles_FeatherM0DragCircuitPythonUF2.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/057/324/medium640/arduino_compatibles_FeatherM0DragCircuitPythonUF2.png?1531152877)

The LED will flash. Then, the **FEATHERBOOT** drive will disappear and a new disk drive called **CIRCUITPY** will appear.

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

![arduino_compatibles_FeatherM0CIRCUITPY.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/057/323/medium640/arduino_compatibles_FeatherM0CIRCUITPY.png?1531152841)

## Further Information

For more detailed info on installing CircuitPython, check out [Installing CircuitPython](https://learn.adafruit.com/welcome-to-circuitpython/installing-circuitpython).

# Square NeoPixel Display with Black LED Acrylic

## Code

## Coding

This project uses the LED animation rainbow example code from the CircuitPython LED Animation guide. The code is modified slightly to accommodate the additional pixels used in the sign.

![led_matrices_code-laptop.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/160/medium640/led_matrices_code-laptop.jpg?1597677080)

## The Mu Python Editor

Mu is a simple Python editor that works with Adafruit CircuitPython hardware. It's written in Python and works on Windows, MacOS, Linux and Raspberry Pi. The serial console is built right in, so you get immediate feedback from your board's serial output! While you can use any text editor with your code, Mu makes it super simple. [Instructions for Mu are available here](https://learn.adafruit.com/welcome-to-circuitpython/installing-mu-editor).

![led_matrices_code-text.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/158/medium640/led_matrices_code-text.jpg?1597676877)

## 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 5.3.1 on 2020-07-13; Adafruit Feather M4 Express with samd51j19
```

## Installing Project Files

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 **examples/** 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_CircuitPython_Bundle/led-animation_led_animation_pixel_map.py.png )

https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_CircuitPython_LED_Animation/blob/main/examples/led_animation_pixel_map.py

## Adjust Code

Look for the following lines in the code and adjust to fit the 8x8 NeoMatrix. Use any text editor or favorite IDE to modify the code. We suggest using Mu as noted above.

```python
# Update to match the pin connected to your NeoPixels
pixel_pin = board.D6
# Update to match the number of NeoPixels you have connected
pixel_num = 64

pixel_wing_vertical = helper.PixelMap.vertical_lines(
    pixels, 8, 8, helper.horizontal_strip_gridmap(8, alternating=False)
)
pixel_wing_horizontal = helper.PixelMap.horizontal_lines(
    pixels, 8, 8, helper.horizontal_strip_gridmap(8, alternating=False)
)
```

## Upload Code

**Ensure the file** is named **code.py** &nbsp;and drop it onto the **CIRCUITPY** drive main (root) directory that appears when your Feather is plugged into your computer via a known good USB data cable. The code will run properly when all of the files have been uploaded including libraries.

## Customizing LED Animations

Take a moment to walk through the LED animation library for CircuitPython learn guide. The guide covers the how to create animations with horizontal and vertical grids.

[Learn Guide: CircuitPython LED Animations – Pixel Mapping](https://learn.adafruit.com/circuitpython-led-animations/pixel-mapping)
![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/161/medium800/led_matrices_code-orange.jpg?1597677103)

# Square NeoPixel Display with Black LED Acrylic

## Acrylic Cutting

## Acrylic Template

A piece of stock can be from the 12 x 12in sheet can using a table saw or a scoring tool (plastic cutting knife). Our stock was cut to 114x114m to accommodate the size of the Bantamtools CNC spoilboard. Use the SVG file to CNC mill or laser cut the piece. Optionally print the template for reference.

![led_matrices_acrylic-template.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/153/medium640/led_matrices_acrylic-template.jpg?1597675667)

[Download Acrylic Template PDF](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/154/original/acrylic-template.pdf?1597675835)
[Download Acrylic Outline SVG file](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/143/original/acrylic-outline.svg?1597626895)
## Desktop CNC

Cutting the Black LED acrylic was done using the [Bantam Tools Desktop CNC](https://www.bantamtools.com/). This guide covers using Fusion 360 and bantam tools software to cut the acrylic.&nbsp;

## Tool Library

Download the tool library from the Bantam Tools website to use in Fusion 360. Install the library by using the Tool Library in the manufacture workspace. Select Local in the side bar and click the Import libraries icon. Navigate and choose the bantam tools Fusion 360 tool library. Use the 1/8in flat end mill to cut the piece of acrylic.

![led_matrices_cnc-milling-tool-library.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/139/medium640/led_matrices_cnc-milling-tool-library.jpg?1597619442)

[Fusion 360 Tool Library – Bantam Tools CNC](https://support.bantamtools.com/hc/en-us/articles/115001671594-Fusion-360-Tool-Library)
## 2D Contour

In Fusion 360 manufacture workspace, create a **New Setup** and set stock mode as relative size box. Add a 2mm to the stock side offset. Use the **2D contour** operation to cut the shape out the material. Under the Tool tab, select the 1/8in flat end mill from the imported tools under Local library. Under the geometry tab, in the contour selection area, click on the lower edge of the model. Under the Passes tab, enable Multiple Depths and add 0.1mm to Maximum Roughing. Use the [recommended settings](https://support.bantamtools.com/hc/en-us/articles/115001668393) for cutting acrylic with a 1/8in flat end mill. Right click on the setup in the browser select post process. Use the othermill as the processor and name your gcode file accordingly.&nbsp;

- Tool: 1/8" flat end mill
- Feed rate: 59 in/min (1500 mm/min)
- Plunge rate: 1.81 in/min (46 mm/min)
- Spindle speed: 16,400 RPM
- Max pass depth: 0.005" (0.13 mm)

![led_matrices_f360-cnc-tabs.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/141/medium640/led_matrices_f360-cnc-tabs.jpg?1597619717)

[Download GCode file](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/142/original/2-5mm-acrylic.zip?1597626854)
## Otherplan

Use the open files button and navigate to the exported gcode file from Fusion 360. Set the material to Generic using the dropdown. Enter the dimensions of your stock acrylic in the material size dropdown. Set the X and Y to 0mm and add a 0.2mm to the Z to accommodate for the double-sided tape used to secure the stock to the spoil board. Offset the placement of the gcode file by 2mm in the X and Y. Set the Z to 0.2mm for stock to leave behind. Select the 1/8in flat end mill. Click start milling button when the stock is secured and the 1/8in end mill is installed and probed.

![led_matrices_otherplan.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/138/medium640/led_matrices_otherplan.jpg?1597619161)

# Square NeoPixel Display with Black LED Acrylic

## Wiring

## Feather Headers

The Proto FeatherWing is setup with 12-pin and 16-pin female headers. The Feather M4 Express will have a male strip of headers, 12-pin and 16-pin respectively.&nbsp;

![led_matrices_feather-headers.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/099/medium640/led_matrices_feather-headers.jpg?1597504688)

## Wiring Switch

The slide switch is wired up to a piece of ribbon cable with two connections going to the middle pin and either side. The wire was peeled off from a roll of 10-wire ribbon cable. The cable length is approximately 5cm (2in) in length.

![led_matrices_switch-wired.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/100/medium640/led_matrices_switch-wired.jpg?1597504728)

## Wiring JST Cable

A male (socket plug) 3-pin JST-PH cable is setup to connect to the Proto FeatherWing. This wire was peeled from a roll of 10-wire ribbon cable. The cable length is roughly 8cm (3in) in length.

![led_matrices_3-pin-jst-cable.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/102/medium640/led_matrices_3-pin-jst-cable.jpg?1597504753)

## Wiring Proto FeatherWing

The slide switch and 3-pin JST cable is soldered to the bottom of the Proto FeatherWing PCB.

![led_matrices_proto-switch-jst.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/104/medium640/led_matrices_proto-switch-jst.jpg?1597504811)

## Switch Wired

The slide switch is wired to the **EN** and **GND** pins on the Proto FeatherWing. The wires are soldered from the bottom of the PCB. Reference the pin labels on the top of the PCB.

![led_matrices_switch-proto-wired.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/103/medium640/led_matrices_switch-proto-wired.jpg?1597504773)

## 3-Pin JST-PH Cable

The 3-pin JST-PH cable is wired to **3V** , **GND** and **D6** pins on the Proto FeatherWing. The wires are soldered from the bottom of the PCB. Reference the pin labels on the top of the PCB.

![led_matrices_switch-jst-proto-wiring.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/105/medium640/led_matrices_switch-jst-proto-wiring.jpg?1597504833)

## Wired Proto FeatherWing

Double check the wiring is correct.&nbsp;

![led_matrices_protowing-wired.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/101/medium640/led_matrices_protowing-wired.jpg?1597504739)

## Wiring NeoMatrix

A 3-pin JST (female socket) cable is wired to the **5V** , **GND** and **DIN** pins on the NeoMatrix PCB. The red wire is connected to the 5V pin, black to the **GND** pin and white to the **DIN** pin on the NeoMatrix. The wires are approximately 5cm (2in) in length.&nbsp;

![led_matrices_neomatrix-wiring.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/106/medium640/led_matrices_neomatrix-wiring.jpg?1597504851)

## Wired NeoMatrix

Double check the wiring is correct. Pieces of heat shrink tubing can be used to keep the wires bundled together.

![led_matrices_neomatrix-wired.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/107/medium640/led_matrices_neomatrix-wired.jpg?1597504864)

## Test Circuit

With the code and libraries uploaded to the Feather, the circuit should power on. Install the Feather on top of the Proto Feather Wing. Plug in the battery to the Feather. Connect the two JST cables together. Use the slide switch to power the circuit on.

![led_matrices_circuit-testing.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/108/medium640/led_matrices_circuit-testing.jpg?1597504876)

# Square NeoPixel Display with Black LED Acrylic

## Assembly

## Hardware for Proto FeatherWing

The Proto FeatherWing is secured to the PCB mount using screws and hex nuts. Use the following hardware.

- 4x M2.5 x 8mm screws
- 4x M2.5 hex nuts

![led_matrices_neocase-hardware.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/109/medium640/led_matrices_neocase-hardware.jpg?1597514603)

## Install FeatherWing

Place the FeatherWing over the four tabs with the mounting holes lined up. Reference the photo for correct placement. While holding in place, insert M2.5 x 8mm screws into mounting holes on the FeatherWing PCB.&nbsp;

![led_matrices_neocase-secure-featherwing.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/110/medium640/led_matrices_neocase-secure-featherwing.jpg?1597515319)

## Secure FeatherWing PCB

Install and fasten the M2.5 hex nuts to threads of the screws to secure the FeatherWing to the PCB mount. The FeatherWing was mounted with the USB port close to the edge. Double check the placement of the PCB with the Feather M4 installed on top of the Proto FeatherWing.

![led_matrices_neocase-secure-hexnuts.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/111/medium640/led_matrices_neocase-secure-hexnuts.jpg?1597515344)

![led_matrices_neocase-install-pcbs.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/117/medium640/led_matrices_neocase-install-pcbs.jpg?1597515990)

## Standoffs (Optional for Battery Power)

For battery power, standoffs will provide clearance for fitting a battery in between the Proto FeatherWing and NeoMatrix PCB. Use eight M.25 x 6mm long screws and 10mm tall M2.5 standoffs to secure the FeatherWing to the mounting tabs on the case.

![led_matrices_neocase-standoffs.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/112/medium640/led_matrices_neocase-standoffs.jpg?1597515399)

![led_matrices_neocase-standoffs-pcbs.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/114/medium640/led_matrices_neocase-standoffs-pcbs.jpg?1597515474)

## Install Switch

The slide switch is inserted at an angle into the built in holder. The actuator pokes through the little hole on the side of the mount. The body of the slide switch will stay in place when the NeoMatrix PCB installed. It essentially holds the switch in place preventing it from coming out the top.

![led_matrices_neocase-switch-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/116/medium640/led_matrices_neocase-switch-install.jpg?1597515744)

![led_matrices_neocase-switch-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/118/medium640/led_matrices_neocase-switch-installed.jpg?1597515928)

## Install NeoMatrix

The NeoMatrix PCB is fitted into the pcb mount with the mounting holes lined up with the built-in standoffs. Orient the PCB so the mounting holes are lined up. Reference the photos for correct placement. Place the NeoMatrix PCB over the standoffs and press down so the pegs are fitted into the mounting holes.

![led_matrices_case-nematrix-installing.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/119/medium640/led_matrices_case-nematrix-installing.jpg?1597516259)

![led_matrices_nematrix-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/120/medium640/led_matrices_nematrix-installed.jpg?1597516520)

## Installed NeoMatrix

The built-in standoffs provide approximately 4mm of clearance. This in turn makes the PCB mount thick (11.5mm) but overall a design decision that accommodates for&nbsp; wiring and connectors.

![led_matrices_neomatrix-feather-installed.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/121/medium640/led_matrices_neomatrix-feather-installed.jpg?1597516733)

## Install Grid

The grid is designed to fit over the NeoMatrix PCB. The walls in the grid feature cut outs specifically sized for the on-board 0805 capacitors on the NeoMatrix PCB. Orient the grid so the cutouts are lined up with the caps on the PCB. Place the grid over the PCB and press the grid into the PCB mount.

![led_matrices_neomatrix-grid-installing.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/122/medium640/led_matrices_neomatrix-grid-installing.jpg?1597517146)

![led_matrices_neomatrix-grid-install.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/123/medium640/led_matrices_neomatrix-grid-install.jpg?1597517158)

## Install Acrylic

The piece of acrylic is press fitted into the cover with the matte side facing down and the glossy side facing up. The lip around the bottom surface keeps the acrylic from falling out.

![led_matrices_install-acrylic-case.gif](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/127/medium640thumb/led_matrices_install-acrylic-case.jpg?1597519181)

## Install Cover

The cover fits over the grid and PCB mount. Orient the cover so the cutout is lined up with the switch on the PCB mount. Snap fits on the edges grasp onto the nubs on the side of the PCB mount.

![led_matrices_install-case-cover.gif](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/129/medium640thumb/led_matrices_install-case-cover.jpg?1597519951)

## Connect NeoMatrix to FeatherWing

Connect the JST cable from the NeoMatrix and Proto FeatherWing together.

![led_matrices_neomatrix-connect-featherwing.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/128/medium640/led_matrices_neomatrix-connect-featherwing.jpg?1597519938)

## USB Power

Connect a USB cable to the USB port on the Feather. Use a computers USB port or USB 5V wall adapter to power the Feather. Optionally use a battery.

![led_matrices_usb-power.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/130/medium640/led_matrices_usb-power.jpg?1597520869)

## Final Build

And there you have it! Enjoy your new square pixel display and create something awesome with it!&nbsp;

![led_matrices_build-test.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/131/medium640/led_matrices_build-test.jpg?1597520887)

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/149/medium800/led_matrices_hero-holding-alt.jpg?1597672183)


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