Under-powering NeoPixel Matrix ?

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wazou
 
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Joined: Tue Jan 07, 2014 3:54 pm

Under-powering NeoPixel Matrix ?

Post by wazou »

Hello,

I have currently a setup with 4x 8x8 NeoPixel matrix and a PSU of 10A5V.
I know that ea. matrix draw 3.5A at max intensity, so theoretically my PSU is under the current requirement of my whole setup.
However it seems to run pretty fine, to what i'm concerne the brightness is already killing my eyes even with all pixel ON on full RGB ( = max current).
What risk I am taking by under powering the matrix, is that a danger for the LEDs ? Or it is just going to be a little less bright than it should ?

Thanks for answering !

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pburgess
 
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Joined: Sun Oct 26, 2008 2:29 am

Re: Under-powering NeoPixel Matrix ?

Post by pburgess »

It's only a concern if you're running the whole array at full brightness. Most of the time it'll use well below 10A.

If you do try to draw more than 10A sustained, the problem won't be with the pixels, but with the power supply. It'll eventually overheat and cut out. I think these supplies have thermal fuses and should return to life after a few hours in that case.

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