Arduino and lighting scale models

Other Hardware LEDs and Multiplexing
1

I’m new to the Arduino and have an interest in using it to light scale models with LEDS and simple, basic sounds like weapons fire, voice clips, theme songs, etc.

The lighting will be static, flashing, strobing, chasing, etc.

I’ve accomplished VERY rudimentary, limited forms of these effects with functions that are built into LEDS or the LED light strings that come out during Christmas. I am therefore quite familiar with the LED side of this equation.

I’m now wanting to go further and use the Arduino to have more control over the LEDS.
Anyone already doing this?

One major question is how do I power the Arduino and the LEDS. Most of the LEDS circuits I’m using require 9-12 volts.

I’m aware the Uno has the DC power jack. What about power on the Pro mini and the Nano.
I’m mostly thinking about the Pro mini and Nano due to the smaller size and expense.

Thanks

2

You can have a separate power supply for the LEDs and the Arduino. You need to connect the grounds together and use a transistor to boost the switching signal.

For the sound get one of these Adafruit Wave Shield for Arduino Kit [v1.1] : ID 94 : $22.00 : Adafruit Industries, Unique & fun DIY electronics and kits

3

You can power Nano etc from 9-12V supply by connecting to the VIN pin. However, overheating can be a problem if the board is directly driving many leds. There are ways to avoid that problem.

I have used this mini mp3 player in projects. It is compact and can drive a small speaker directly.

4

Thanks for the replies.
I still have some learning and experimenting to do.