What is it?

A DIY Raspberry Pi Cape PCB, that provides 8 discrete ports for WS281x LEDs, using the DPIPixel protocol. Additional hardware (and Raspberry Pi) not included.

• Source voltage input (12-36Vin) supplies power to both the attached LEDs and an on-board 5V buck-converter (providing 5V/3A to the Raspberry Pi).
• Eight 3-terminal ports (Vout, Data and GND) for eight buffered (74AHCT125/33R) WS281x data and power outputs.
• All eight Vout ports independently fused at 5A.

What makes it special?

Great entry-level product for those interested in a simple, efficient method to power and control WS281x LEDs from a Raspberry Pi (800+ pixels per output at 40fps).

Buffered data-signal and fused power are all routed to a convenient terminal-block for LED connections.

As this cape uses the DPIPixel protocol, installation of a virtual EEPROM is required (no on-board EEPROM), and the user is responsible for obtaining the required 8-port license (if needed).

Power Requirements

• The two Vin connectors are bussed, and therefore should be powered from the same PSU.
• If the total power-consumption of the entire board is <30A, a single Vin is sufficient for powering all 8-ports. If the total expected current is 40A (8-ports x 5A), both Vin connections should be used.
• Cannot be used with 5V.
• The attached Raspberry Pi is powered by the board. Do not power the Pi separately (through the USB).

Some Assembly Required

Sold as PCB (only)--user must supply (and assemble) the remaining hardware: