How to build your own LED matrix

[Admin]

You already know what an LED matrix is and how it works.

There are LED matrices that are ready-made like the picture below.

But now, lets try to build our own LED matrix.

How? Just follow the steps below. But first, take note that we will be building a matrix with common-row cathode arrangement. These steps are from the website www.circuitspecialists.com.


Step 1: The Parts
To build this matrix, we will need a few things to get us started.


                             1 – Prototyping Board
                       2 – 8 Pin Headers
                       8 – 200ohm resistors
                       64 – Red LEDs

Some other essential supplies include: Soldering iron, Solder, Desoldering wire/ rosin flux (just in case), wire (we recommend 2 different colors to stay organized), Heat shrink tubing (optional). We also recommend keeping a multimeter close by for testing purposes.

This will get the matrix built, later we will discuss what’s needed to get it running.

Step 2: The LEDs
To build an 8x8 LED matrix, we’re going to be using a total of 64 5mm Red LEDs, it never hurts to have some extra though.
 
Make sure you note which side is the cathode(-) and the anode(+). Basically, the longer side is the positive side and the other one is the negative.



Now, we will begin arranging our bulbs on our perf board. If you're not familiar with a perf board, this is how it looks like.

Step 3: Arranging the LEDs

Because we’ve opted to use the common-row cathode arrangement in our matrix, we will be inserting the pins of the LEDs into the perf board in a particular fashion. It is extremely important to be diligent in this process.

As you can see, we’ve opted to keep the long side (anode) on top, because we will be bending them vertically.

Now the fun begins….



Step 4: Soldering the Matrix

By using soldering iron and lead, we can now start putting the LEDs together.

Now, we will start soldering the anode columns. 
It’s absolutely critical that the anodes DO NOT touch the cathodes. Here, we’re using a screwdriver to assist with the bending process.

Now, let’s check our work. Connect ground to your rows, and power to your columns… make sure you use a resistor!

This is what it’ll look like when your soldering is complete.

Step 5: Attaching the connectors

Now that our LEDs are arranged and we’ve tested each of the circuits, we will go ahead and attach the 8 pin headers to the perf board.

Then we’ll add some solder to keep the headers secure.

Then, the resistors.

Now comes the (arguably) most difficult part of this build with regards to soldering skill…. connecting the pins to the rows and columns.
Keep in mind that the pins will be reversed when you flip the board over, so pay close attention to your work.

Now we’ll test our connections one by one.

Then, we move on to the anode side.

Now we can power up the unit!

That's it!

[Jo-Ann Pretty]

seems like I have to practice my soldering powers <3

[Jedjed]

How would I know if the connection of the solder ed parts are good?

[Jedjed]

Are the schematic diagram of LED Matrix and Dot Matrix the same?

[Bern_Gavz]

Sa paggawa po ng LED matrix ano po ang pinaka mahirap na process ? May maisasuggest po ba kayo kung paano ito mapapadali ?

[jin]

Excellent tutorial! I am working my way towards building my own led matrix. Any tips?

[ndreanicoke]

What is the advantage of making/using this led matrix from dot matrix?

[RTAGUDIN]

Where can we use this LED matrix ? On what project it is applicable?

[_rjdelacruz]

Sa paggawa po ng LED matrix ano po ang pinaka mahirap na process ? May maisasuggest po ba kayo kung paano ito mapapadali ?

Yung mapaso po habang nag-sosolder. Ang hirap na, masakit pa.

[_rjdelacruz]

Where can we use this LED matrix ? On what project it is applicable?

I think it's up to you how will you use your creativity and imagination.

[_rjdelacruz]

What is the advantage of making/using this led matrix from dot matrix?

More efficient and more attractive

[jenny.edano]

Whoaa . Nice information . Thank you mam for giving steps on how to build own dot matrix , helpful po because less gastos and more attractive

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