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pixelblaze-v3-standard

3 min read

Important Note

This entire repo was AI created - including all of the data within. The intent was to A) help me with my personal electronics inventory; and B) see how I could use AI to make that process a bit easier. DO NOT TRUST!

Pixelblaze V3 Standard - WiFi LED Controller

Details

Description

Advanced WiFi-enabled LED controller and live-coding pattern development engine designed for LED art projects. Features a web-based editor with real-time pattern compilation, mathematical expression engine, and support for thousands of LEDs. Perfect for art installations, costumes, architectural lighting, and interactive LED displays.

Specifications

  • Microcontroller: ESP32 (dual-core Xtensa LX6)
  • Clock Speed: 240MHz
  • Operating Voltage: 3.3V (internal), 5V input
  • WiFi: 802.11b/g/n with built-in antenna
  • Dimensions: 34.2mm x 39.5mm (including antenna)
  • Power Input: Micro-USB (1.8A pass-through) or 5V screw terminal
  • Storage Options: Standard (1.4MB), XL (3MB + 10.4MB reserved)
  • Power Protection: Reverse-polarity and over-voltage protection (up to 18V)

Image

Pixelblaze V3 Standard WiFi LED Controller

Features

  • Live Coding: Web-based editor with real-time pattern compilation
  • WiFi Control: Access from any device with web browser
  • Pattern Library: 100+ community-contributed patterns
  • Mathematical Engine: Expression-based pattern generation
  • Multi-LED Support: Single output supports up to 5,000 LEDs
  • Expandable: Output Expansion Boards for up to 64 channels
  • Pixel Mapper: 2D/3D mapping for complex LED arrangements
  • Pattern Storage: Store 100+ patterns on device

LED Support

  • WS2812/WS2812B: NeoPixel strips (up to 2,500 LEDs)
  • APA102/SK9822: DotStar strips with HDR support (up to 5,000 LEDs)
  • WS2801: Older addressable LED strips
  • WS2811/WS2813/WS2815: Various addressable LED types
  • SK6812: RGB and RGBW addressable LEDs
  • HDR Support: Dynamic range beyond 0-255 for APA102/SK9822

Connectivity & I/O

  • LED Output: 5mm screw terminal or 0.1” pin header
  • Power: Micro-USB or 5V screw terminal
  • Expansion Header: 8-pin header (GND, EN, 3.3V, RX0, TX0, IO0, IO25, IO26)
  • GPIO: 3 pins on expansion header, 15 additional on underside
  • Analog Inputs: 5 pins (33, 34, 35, 36, 39)
  • Touch Sensors: 5 pins (2, 4, 13, 14, 27)

Programming & Software

  • Web IDE: Browser-based pattern editor with live preview
  • Pattern Language: JavaScript-like syntax with expression support
  • Real-time Compilation: Patterns update live as you type
  • Pattern Sharing: Community pattern library and sharing
  • Mobile Support: Works on phones and tablets
  • Offline Capable: Patterns run independently after upload

Performance

  • Rendering Speed: 48,000 pixels per second average
  • Maximum LEDs: Up to 5,000 pixels on single output
  • Frame Rate: Varies by pattern complexity and LED data rates
  • Synchronization: Multiple controllers can be synchronized
  • Pattern Complexity: Supports arrays, functions, loops, and control flow

Expansion Options

  • Output Expander: 8-channel expansion boards
  • Sensor Board: Environmental sensors and inputs
  • Multiple Units: Synchronize multiple Pixelblaze controllers
  • Custom Hardware: GPIO access for custom sensors/controls

Applications

  • Art Installations: Large-scale LED art projects
  • Architectural Lighting: Building and structure illumination
  • Costumes & Wearables: Interactive LED clothing and accessories
  • Stage Lighting: Concert and theater LED effects
  • Home Decoration: Holiday and ambient lighting
  • Interactive Displays: Sensor-responsive LED installations

Advantages

  • Easy Programming: No complex IDE setup required
  • Live Feedback: See changes instantly on LEDs
  • High Performance: Handles thousands of LEDs smoothly
  • Community Driven: Large library of shared patterns
  • Wireless Control: No cables needed for programming
  • Robust Hardware: Built-in protection circuits
  • Scalable: Expand from single strip to massive installations

Kit Contents

  • Pixelblaze V3 Standard controller board
  • 5mm screw terminals for LED connections
  • 0.1” pin headers for breadboard use
  • Quick start documentation

Notes

  • Requires soldering to attach screw terminals and headers
  • Patterns average 10KB storage each
  • Web interface works on any modern browser
  • FCC/CE/IC certified for commercial use
  • Made in USA by ElectroMage/Hencke Technologies

Graph View

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