rpi-ws2811

This project has the goal completing all the coding needed use ws2811 neopixel lights using a raspberry pi, for my xmas tree. most neopixels effects are written in C++, however i was only able to use a rpi with my ws2811 using python. I am porting all the c++ examples to python.

Install Instuctions

Please start with my fast install instuctions ( located on install.md)

If you need the long full install tutorials:

• https://learn.adafruit.com/neopixels-on-raspberry-pi/overview
• https://tutorials-raspberrypi.com/connect-control-raspberry-pi-ws2812-rgb-led-strips/
• https://www.dexterindustries.com/howto/run-a-program-on-your-raspberry-pi-at-startup/

Neopixel effects example sites:

• Part1: https://www.tweaking4all.com/hardware/arduino/adruino-led-strip-effects/
  • link to converted examples
  • link to youtube examples
• Part2: https://pastebin.com/Qe0Jttme
• Part3: https://github.com/zatamite/Neopixel-heartbeat/blob/master/neoheart/neoheart.ino
• Part4: https://github.com/FastLED/FastLED/tree/master/examples

Hardware Considerations

• RPI 3b
  • SD = 16gb, Ram = 1gb, CPU = 4× 1.2GHz
  • OS = Raspbian
  • neopixel = 50 WS2811 (powered from RPI +5v pinout)
• RPI 0W
  • SD = 16gb, Ram = 512mb, CPU = 1× 1GHz
• 6.5ft tree
• 300 programmable led (WS2811)
• 2 power supplies (each 5volt/10Amp)

Notes: the RPI0W controling 300pixels runs about twice as slow as the RPI3b. I really notice it on the FireEffecT, but barely notice the slowness on other effects.

Start python script on startup

• https://www.dexterindustries.com/howto/run-a-program-on-your-raspberry-pi-at-startup/
  • sudo nano /etc/rc.local
  • sudo python3 /code/rpi-ws2811/neopixel-xmas-tree.py &
• stop command: sudo pkill -9 python