Build the NeoTrix: Your Ultimate DIY 8x8 LED Matrix Display!

Welcome to the world of NeoTrix—your very own DIY LED display that brings a splash of color and creativity to any space! Imagine a compact, versatile device capable of mesmerizing animations, dynamic notifications, and ambient lighting, all in a sleek, custom-designed enclosure. Whether you're a hobbyist, a maker, or just someone who loves tech, this project is perfect for you.

In this instructable, we'll guide you through the step-by-step process of building NeoTrix using an 8x8 NeoPixel matrix, an ESP32 NodeMCU, and a few additional components. With 3D-printed parts, a rechargeable battery, and the powerful WLED firmware, NeoTrix is not just a project—it's an experience. Get ready to dive into the world of LED displays and create something truly magical!

Parts and Tools Required

Electronics:

1. 1x ESP32 NodeMCU board - buy
2. 1x 8x8 NeoPixel matrix (WS2812B) - buy
3. 1x Type-C TP4056 charge controller - buy
4. 1x MT3608 Boost converter (output set to 5V) - buy
5. 1x 18650 Li-ion cell
6. 1x Slide switch small
7. 1x Frosted Acrylic sheet 1mm thickness 83x83mm
8. Prototyping board
9. Jumper wires
10. Type-C cable for charging

3D-Printed Parts:

1. Cover: Houses the front frosted acrylic sheet
2. Grid: Holds the 8x8 matrix
3. Back cover: Includes mounts for the PCB assembly
4. Mid-plate: Holds the grid and the LED array, screws into the back cover

Hardware:

1. M3 fasteners (30mm and 5-8mm)
2. Screws for assembly

Tools:

1. Soldering iron and solder
2. Screwdrivers
3. Hot glue gun (optional)
4. 3D printer (or access to one)

Download the 3D models for the cover, grid, back cover, and mid-plate.

3D print the parts using PLA or ABS filament. Ensure the printer settings are optimized for your material.

• Cover: The front piece that will hold the frosted acrylic sheet.
• Grid: Securely positions the 8x8 NeoPixel matrix.
• Back cover: Designed with mounts for the PCB assembly and components.
• Mid-plate: Fits between the cover and the back cover, holding the grid and LED matrix.

Post-process the parts (e.g., sanding, painting) as needed for a clean finish.

Prepare the prototyping board:

• Mount the ESP32, TP4056 charge controller, and boost converter on the board.
• Wiring Connections:
• 18650 cell to TP4056: Connect the cell's positive and negative terminals to the TP4056's "B+" and "B-" terminals, respectively.
• TP4056 to Boost Converter: Connect "OUT+" to the slide swith one side terminal and other side of the switch to the "Input+" and "OUT-" of the TP4056 to the boost converter's " Input -".
• Boost Converter Output: Set the output of the boost converter to 5V with the help of a small flat head screw driver to adjust the shaft on the small potentiometer while verifing with a multimeter.
• ESP32 Power: Connect the 5V output from the boost converter to the ESP32's 5V and GND pins and of the Neopixle matrix Vcc and GND.
• NeoPixel Data Line: Connect the data line from the NeoPixel matrix to a designated GPIO 13 pin on the ESP32 .
• Common Ground: Ensure all components share a common ground.

Solder the components and connections on the prototyping board as per the schematic. Ensure solid and secure connections to prevent any short circuits or loose connections.

Mount the PCB assembly onto the back cover using the designed mounts and M3 x8 fasteners. Secure all components properly to avoid movement.

Install WLED Firmware:

• Go to the WLED installation page using a computer with a browser.
• Connect the ESP32 to your computer via micro B- USB.
• Select the correct COM port (go to Device manager to see at which com port it is connected to )
• After verifying click plain ,then on install
• A new popup appears then click on install WLED
• Wait for the flashing process to complete and confirm the successful installation.
• After thats done it prompts u to select wifi network and then you should enter your wifi Cretidentials
• then click on "Go To Device"
• after that go to Config(gear icon on the top )
• then go to led preferences .> change led count to 64 and GPIO to 13 and click save.
• click back and then go to 2Dconfigrations>check the dimensions i.e. 8 x 8 and select "serpentine" and save
• Viola!! all done

Check the video below for easy visual understanding for configuring WLED

Note: If you dont have drivers installed for Ch340, download from here:" or check out sparkfuns page for additional details - here

1. Install the frosted acrylic sheet into the cover to diffuse the light from the LEDs.
2. Place the NeoPixel matrix into the grid and align it properly.
3. Attach the mid-plate to the back cover:

• Secure the grid (with the NeoPixel matrix) to the mid-plate.
• Align the mid-plate with the back cover and screw them together.

1. Close the enclosure with the cover:

• Carefully align the cover with the mid-plate.
• Secure the cover in place it just self locks, ensuring a snug fit.

Testing and Final Adjustments

1. Power on the device and connect to the WLED interface.
2. Test various lighting effects and animations to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
3. Adjust settings in WLED if necessary, such as LED brightness, effect speed, and color.
4. Final adjustments: Ensure all connections are secure and the enclosure is fully assembled without gaps.

You can install WLED app through playstore and after opening it if you are connected to same wifi Network.

just click(+) icon and it shows a device is found in few seconds.

just click done and now you are going to able control your display through ur phone

Congratulations! You've built a versatile 8x8 NeoPixel array display with a custom enclosure and WLED firmware. This project can be expanded or modified to suit different needs, from ambient lighting to visual notifications. Enjoy experimenting with the endless possibilities of LED displays!

since WLED supports Modules i am thinking of adding some custom animation and function in future also refining the whole display to make it more compact and minimalistic so stay tuned 😊😁