Hello everyone,
I'm new to arduino and electronics (though, have read some theory about some components). I ordered an Arduino Mega 2560 Rev3 a few days ago, also a breadboard, wires, and 100 LEDs (together with resistors).
I think what I'll start with will be playing around with them, later maybe buying some more stuff.
I have a few questions (couldn't find clear answers anywhere);
I want to control as many LEDs as possible individually as possible. I've heard of charlieplexing, looks too complicated for me.
LEDs I ordered:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/110483310378?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649
I can power it either through USB, or through the barrel plug from a 9V battery.
I think I can just wire them like:
Arduino Digital (OUT) -----> resistor ------>LED-------->Arduino GND
(correct me if wrong)
With a resistor, single LED would drain 20mA.
I've heard every pin outputs up to 40mA. Is there any total max? Some weird forums mentioned the max is 200mA, if true, that would mean my limit would be 10 LEDs on 10 pins...
How much current can the 5V out provide? If I understand it right (saw this answer somewhere), it can provide 400mA when USB and even more from 9V plug? Then maybe its possible to wire up like:
-----------> resistor ---------> LED1 --------> Digital (IN) at low/high (which one to use to turn it on?)
5V out ---|
-----------> resistor ---------> LED2 --------> Digital (IN) (other one)
(please correct if wrong)
Also, I have a portable 20000mAH battery with 2 usb ports (1A and 2.1A). Is it suitable to power arduino somehow?
Any other suggestions? What I'm trying to do is controlling as many LEDs as possible individually, also with ability to have them all turned on at the same time.
Any help is appreciated!!
Thanks in advance,
Robert