Datasheet

Basic Connections
To get started, let’s assume you have some model of Arduino microcontroller connected to the computer’s USB port.
We’ll elaborate on the finer points of powering NeoPixels later, but in general you’ll usually be using a 5V DC power
supply (e.g. “wall wart”) or — for wearable projects — a 3.7 Volt lithium-polymer battery.
Identify the “input” end of your NeoPixel strip, pixel(s) or other device. On some, there will be a solder pad labeled
“DIN” or “DI” (data input). Others will have an arrow showing the direction that data moves. The data input can
originate from any digital pin on the Arduino, but all the example code is set up for digital pin 6 by default. The
NeoPixel shield comes wired this way.
If using a Flora, Feather or other microcontroller board with an attached lithium-polymer battery: connect the +5V
input on the strip to the pad labeled VBAT or BAT on the board, GND from the strip to any GND pad on the
microcontroller board, and DIN to Flora pin D6. If the board doesn’t have a pin #6, you’ll need to modify the example
code to change the pin number.
For other Arduino boards with a separate +5V DC power supply for the NeoPixels: connect the +5V input on the strip
to the + (positive) terminal on the power supply (don’t connect to the Arduino), DIN to digital pin 6 on the Arduino, and
– (minus or GND) on the strip must connect to both the minus (–) terminal on the DC supply and a GND pin on the
Arduino (there are usually several — any will do).
The 144 pixel strips are so tightly packed, there’s no room for labels other than –, + and the data direction arrows. Data
is the un-labeled pad.
The order of the three pins can vary between different strip densities and batches. ALWAYS use the labels
printed ON THE STRIP. Look closely, NEVER blindly follow a NeoPixel strip wiring diagram; it might be based
on a different strip type!
When connecting NeoPixels to any LIVE power source or microcontroller, ALWAYS CONNECT GROUND (–)
BEFORE ANYTHING ELSE. Conversely, disconnect ground last when separating.
© Adafruit Industries https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-neopixel-uberguide Page 32 of 68