User Manual

DotStar Strips

The most popular type of DotStars are these flexible LED strips…they can be cut to length and fit into all manner of

things. There are many varieties! Two vital things to be aware of:

Though strips are described as “flexible,” they do not tolerate continuous and repeated bending. “Formable”

might be a better word. A typical application is architecture, where they can be curved around columns and then

stay put. Repeated flexing (as on costumes) will soon crack the solder connections. For wearable use, affix

shorter segments to a semi-rigid base (e.g. a hat, BMX armor, etc.).

Watch your power draw. Though each pixel only needs a little current, it adds up fast…DotStar strips are so

simple to use, one can quickly get carried away! We’ll explain more on the “Power and Connections” page.

RGB DotStar Strips

DotStar Digital RGB LED Weatherproof Strip is available

in three different “densities”: 30, 60 and 144 LEDs per

meter, on a white or black backing strip.

30 LEDs per meter, white

strip (https://adafru.it/od1)

30 LEDs per meter, black

strip (https://adafru.it/CIk)

60 LEDs per meter, white

strip (https://adafru.it/CIl)

60 LEDs per meter, black

strip (https://adafru.it/sCQ)

144 LEDs per meter, white

strip (https://adafru.it/CIm)

144 LEDs per meter, black

strip (https://adafru.it/CIn)

144/m white strip, half-meter (https://adafru.it/CIo)

144/m black strip, half-meter (https://adafru.it/CIp)

The

approximate

peak power use (all LEDs on at

maximum brightness) per meter is:

30 LEDs: 9 Watts (about 1.8 Amps at 5 Volts).

60 LEDs: 18 Watts (about 3.6 Amps at 5 Volts).

144 LEDs : 43 watts (8.6 Amps at 5 Volts).

Mixed colors and lower brightness settings will use

proportionally less power.