calvingloster:
CrossRoads:
Sounds over complicated. Just use 4 TPIC6B595, 25 resistors, 25 LEDs.I'm trying to learn so maybe it is over complicated but still. I also want to make a bigger one with maybe a 1000 LED's. Then I would for sure need transistors.
Thanks for mentioning that at the beginning so nobody wastes any time giving irrelevant answers.
The solution is the same: Use less volts.
Get multiple voltage converters (like the one I posted) in parallel. Dial them down as low as you can go (4V is better than 5V) for minimal losses.
You need to connect the GNDs together but keep their +ve outputs separate. Arrange your LEDs in groups, each with its own converter.