shiznatix:
majenko:
Where's the decoupling capacitors?I didn't know I needed one. I am quite new to electronics and am trying to control an LED matrix. What would I use a decoupling capacitor for in this situation?
The rule is simple, all digital logic chips should have a decoupling capacitor to ground on every supply right next to the
chip. (most chips have only one supply, here 5V). Typical symptoms of inadequate decoupling is random,
occasional misbehaviour. Unless you enjoy circuits that sometimes go wrong for no obvious reason don't
forget to decouple!
Without further information 0.1uF is a good default value that should work in most
circumstances, but the datasheet for the chip will have chapter-and-verse on decoupling requirements.
Buy decoupling capacitors in bulk, its much more economic!