How Pixel LED Works? Simple Explanation

Learn how Pixel LED works simply. Discover how these smart lights create colorful displays and where they are used, explained in easy words.

Have you ever noticed lights that can change color in striking patterns? Perhaps you have seen them on a sign, costume, or even around a screen. These could possibly be Pixel LEDs at work. Pixel LEDs are a type of light that is very advanced. Each LED can independently light up in varying colors and brightness.

This makes it possible to create amazing light displays and shows. But how do they actually work? Let us break it down in simple terms.

What is a Pixel LED?

To begin with, think of a regular LED. It is a small light that lights up when electricity flows through it. A Pixel LED is a bit more advanced.

Essentially, it is an LED light that has a miniature computer chip embedded within. The chip is what makes it “smart” or “addressable.”

Depending to this chip, each Pixel LED in a string can independently be controlled.

How They Light Up in Different Colors

Ordinary LEDs illuminate in a single color. In contrast, Pixel LEDs can emit various colors because each one is composed of three micro LEDs: red, green, and blue (RGB).

Each Pixel LED is capable of producing an astounding array of colors because variations in red, green, and blue combinations are added to each of the colors. For instance, all three LEDs are turned on when white light is required.

To make red light, only the red LED will be activated, and for purple color, both the red and blue LEDs will be activated simultaneously.

The “Smart” Part: Addressability

Here comes the computer chip part. Each pixel LED in a Pixel LED string has an individual address, which makes it different when compared to a house number.

This special address allows a controller to relay target messages to every LED pixel in a string. For example, the controller could communicate, “Pixel number 5, become red,” and only pixel number 5 will be changed into the red color.

Thus, LEDs can be addressed individually which is the basis for using the term “addressable.” Thereby, the individual control of thousands of Pixel LEDs becomes possible.

How They Are Connected

Each Pixel LED has a chain which allows them to connect to each other. Each LED has wires that connects to power, ground, and data.

The data carry instructions from the controller to each individual LED. Each Pixel LED processes its unique set of instructions, relays the remaining data down the stream, and waits for its subsequent Pixel LED to fetch the data.

This is why running multiple strips of Pixel LEDs in your display is possible.

What Can You Do With Pixel LEDs?

Their versatility and programmable features makes Pixel LEDs popular in a wide variety of DIY projects.

• Signs and Displays: For example, in shops and events, they can be used to craft attention grabbing signs and symbols that depict pictures and animated graphics.
• Decoration: They can be used in homes to decorate for parties and holidays by using custom light patterns.
• Gaming and Computers: They can be integrated with gaming setups and computer cases to provide stunning lighting visuals that can change depending on the music or the game being played.
• Art and Costumes: Sculptors and inventors combine Pixel LEDs with tech devices to create colorful interactive art pieces that can be worn as costumes and makeup.

Pricing of Pixel LEDs

As noted before, the cost of Pixel LEDs is determined by many factors such as their type, quantity, and place of purchase.

One or two Pixel LEDs or small strips of LEDs can cost anywhere from a few rupees to several tens of rupees for each LED. For lengthier strips or bulk purchases, the per-Led cost is lower. For instance, you can buy strings of 50 Pixel LEDs at the price range of roughly ₹200 – ₹600.

For large scale displays or projects, the cost will add up, but as technology becomes more prevalent, these products are becoming easier to afford.

In Simple Words

Try to think about a single Pixel LED as a miniature, highly advance light bulb that possesses the capability to change into virtually any color.

Each individual light bulb can be given specific instructions to perform tasks and, as a result, spectacular light shows and colorful displays can be created.

All of them have a mini computer internally that receives commands, and so whenever you come across creative light display, it is probably the Pixels LEDs making use of their digital intelligence.

Frequently Asked Questions