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LED Node (v2a)

€4.50 - €27.50

The popular LED Node gives full spectrum control of 12-24V RGB LED strips over wireless !

The LED Node v2 combines a JeeNode with powerful MOSFET switches - its narrow (18 x 132 mm) form factor is a good in-line fit to standard RGB LED strips.

The LED Node uses mostly through-hole parts so it's easy to assemble, the STN4NF03L SMT MOSFET's are already soldered to the board for you. It includes the ATmega328, the RFM12B wireless module, 3 of those sensitive "logic" MOSFETs able to drive easily long lengths of RGB common-anode LED strips (even types with 30 or 60 LEDs per meter). The MOSFET drive circuits are tied to I/O pins which support hardware PWM, providing independent, flicker-free dimming of each color. A 4-position heavy duty PCB termination matches the connections of standard RGB common-anode strips.

The LED Node takes its logic power from the required high current supply (typically +12V regulated) which is passed on to the LED common anodes. This design pays particular attention to handling relatively large currents effectively. There is provision for adding an optional thermistor for active monitoring of the MOSFET temperature, important when driving strips near the maximum (2A) recommended with high duty cycles. With more modest loading (lower maximum currents and/or duty cycle), the MOSFET's typically stay just hand warm.

Refer to the LED Node Wiki for guidance on safe loading/maximum current supported. For extra-long, single colour strips, the MOSFET outputs can safely wire in parallel with 0.1Ω, 1W pad resistors in series with each colour. This approximately triples the safe current handled.  With the minor modification described in the Wiki, even 24v strips are supported.

When connecting the LED strip, note that standard header pins are suitable for a total average current of only ~1A. The commoned pin carries the sum of the colour currents so can easily hit this limit first. Substitute direct soldering to the oversized output pads for higher currents/duty cycles.

Note that the LED Node does not have a full set of JeeNode "ports". Two standard 6pin headers (Ports 1,4) are provided in non-standard positions (board end and side).

Purchase Options:

The LED Node Kit contains the ATmega, RFM12B 868 MHz radio module, 3 SMD power-MOSFET's, and all the other parts needed to build a LED Node. LED strips are not included. Modern Device has 915MHz units with US Dollar pricing.

The LED Node Kit NORF omits the RFM12B 868 MHz module. Add an RFM12B 433 MHz module if this band is allowed by your local regulations.

The PCB only variant is the bare PCB board. You’ll need to add your own components to create a working LED Node.

The documentation and full design details are freely available.

This version was announced in this Weblog and assembly described here and here.