4x4 WS2812B Addressable RGB LED Matrix Module - 16 Pixels Rigid

Specifications:

• LED Layout: 4 Rows x 4 Columns (16 Total Pixels)
  
• LED Type: WS2812B (Integrated 5050 RGB LED + Driver)
  
• PCB Type: Rigid FR4 (Black)
  
• Input Voltage: 5V DC
  
• Current Consumption: ~960mA (Full White @ 100% Brightness), ~200-300mA (Standard indicators)
  
• Communication: Single-wire Serial protocol
  
• Dimensions: ~30mm x 30mm
  
• Mounting: 4x Corner mounting holes for secure installation.
  
• Expandability: Solder pads for Data In (DI) and Data Out (DO) to chain multiple modules

Key Applications

• Status Indicators: Use it as a visual "health bar" or status grid for your 3D printer or server.
  
• Macro Keypads: Perfect backlight for 4x4 mechanical keypads or custom MIDI controllers.
  
• Robotics: Add "eyes" or expressive light signals to small mobile robots.
  
• Education: The ideal "First LED Project" for students learning about arrays and one-wire protocols.

Project Evolution

• Past Projects (Prerequisites): If you've played with single 5mm LEDs or standard RGB LEDs, this is your next step into the world of "Smart Pixels."
  
• Feature Upgrade: This module allows you to control 16 independent RGB LEDs using only one digital pin on your microcontroller, saving your GPIO pins for other sensors.
  
• Effort/Requirements: Beginner Friendly. Because it only has 16 LEDs, you can safely power this directly from most Arduino 5V pins (just keep the brightness at a reasonable level!).

Virtual Technician & Wiring

• ???? TECH TIP: While you can power 16 LEDs from an Arduino for testing, always use an external 5V source if you plan to run all 16 LEDs at full white brightness for long periods.
  
• +5V: Connect to Arduino 5V or external 5V power.
  
• GND: Connect to common Ground.
  
• DIN (Data In): Connect to your Microcontroller (e.g., Pin 6 on Arduino).
  
• DOUT (Data Out): Connect to the "DIN" of a second module to create a 4x8 or 8x8 grid.

Package Includes:

1 x 4x4 WS2812B Addressable RGB LED Matrix Module - 16 Pixels Rigid

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use this with an Arduino Uno?
   Yes, it is perfectly compatible.
2. Does it need a resistor?
   A 330Ω to 470Ω resistor on the data line is recommended to protect the first LED.
3. Can I power this from a USB port?
   Yes, 16 LEDs at moderate brightness draw well within USB 2.0 limits (~500mA).
4. Is this module flexible?
   No, this is a rigid PCB version for better durability.
5. What happens if I connect it backwards?
   Connecting 5V to the Data pin or reversing polarity will likely kill the first LED.
6. Can I chain 10 of these together?
   Yes, but you will then need an external high-current power supply.
7. Do I need to solder headers?
   Yes, it comes with solder pads for input and output.
8. Is it compatible with 3.3V boards like ESP32?
   Yes, though a level shifter is best practice for long data wires.
9. What is the size of the PCB?
   It is a compact 30mm x 30mm square.
10. Can I control each LED individually?
    Yes, that is the core feature of the WS2812B.
11. Does it get hot?
    Only if run at 100% brightness white for a long time; usually, it stays cool.
12. Which library should I use?
    FastLED or Adafruit_NeoPixel are the industry standards.
13. Can it display the color White?
    Yes, by mixing Red, Green, and Blue at full intensity.
14. What are the mounting holes for?
    They allow you to screw the module into a case or onto a chassis.
15. Does it support PWM?
    The driver IC handles the PWM internally; you just send the color data.
16. Is there a limit to how many I can chain?
    Usually limited by the RAM of your microcontroller.
17. Can I use this for a clock?
    Yes, it's great for showing seconds or binary time.
18. What is the viewing angle?
    Approximately 120 degrees.
19. What is the data speed?
    800Kbps.
20. Can I use this with a 9V battery?
    NO. It requires a regulated 5V supply. 9V will destroy the LEDs instantly