New guy here looking to get started

Just joined, as I have been wanting to do a christmas light display, for many years. And, just before the holidays, the wife mentioned that she would like our lights to "dance to the music." W/ that said, I picked up an Uno and Mega 2560, along w/ some relay boards. I may opt for SSR boards.

Programming isn't really my thing. But, I have a bit of an electronics background (20+ years).

Can anyone direct me where I can go to pick up how to put it all together and make something work? Please, and thanks.

Hi,

Update: Just realised you are talking about controlling lights you already have but I will leave below in case of interest / use


You would probably be best looking at neopixels as they are easy to wire up and very easy to program with a library.

There are lots of Youtube videoes etc. on how to get started. Although probably not a good place to start you may like to have a look at what "Dave's Garage" does with them
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COJnlehBcKw

I find WokWi is a good place to get a feel for how something works etc.
e.g. https://wokwi.com/projects/374907938100932609

@jim-p , can you please fix your URL(s?).

Seriously consider solid state relays with zero cross, this will keep the EMI to a minimum and also allow you to dim the lights. I am assuming the lights are mains powered.

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