This controller is now available. Further info to be found here
I have an idea for a low cost P-DMX pixel driver (with on-board step-down regulator), but it would be limited to 25 pixels, either 2801 or 6803 type.
You'd feed P-DMX (power + DMX over CAT5) to it. I was thinking a pair of RJ45 sockets (P-DMX loop in/out) and a single 4 way pixel connector. Maybe a DC power connector for those wanting to use regular DMX (no power) and a separate 24V DC power feed.
This board would step the 24V down to the 5V that the 2801 / 6803 pixels require. The regulator is good for 1.5 Amps, so that's the reason for the 25 pixel limit. (60mA x 25) Since the regulator is near the pixels, it would solve the typical voltage drop issues.
As for addressing and options, a DIP switch would be easiest, but adds cost. A little button to set the start address and pixel type could be used perhaps. That would save board space and a little money, but are people comfortable with setting options via DMX?
I don't have any firm idea on price yet, but at a guess it may be say $30 as a fully built board?
What sort of display elements could you make with 25 x pixels? Arches, small 2D tree outlines.... ??
Anyway, what are your thoughts on this? Sound interesting? Dead dog? Other thoughts? Over to you.
I have an idea for a low cost P-DMX pixel driver (with on-board step-down regulator), but it would be limited to 25 pixels, either 2801 or 6803 type.
You'd feed P-DMX (power + DMX over CAT5) to it. I was thinking a pair of RJ45 sockets (P-DMX loop in/out) and a single 4 way pixel connector. Maybe a DC power connector for those wanting to use regular DMX (no power) and a separate 24V DC power feed.
This board would step the 24V down to the 5V that the 2801 / 6803 pixels require. The regulator is good for 1.5 Amps, so that's the reason for the 25 pixel limit. (60mA x 25) Since the regulator is near the pixels, it would solve the typical voltage drop issues.
As for addressing and options, a DIP switch would be easiest, but adds cost. A little button to set the start address and pixel type could be used perhaps. That would save board space and a little money, but are people comfortable with setting options via DMX?
I don't have any firm idea on price yet, but at a guess it may be say $30 as a fully built board?
What sort of display elements could you make with 25 x pixels? Arches, small 2D tree outlines.... ??
Anyway, what are your thoughts on this? Sound interesting? Dead dog? Other thoughts? Over to you.