Newbie! Smallest arduino to run 8 LEDs (one at a time)

Using Arduino LEDs and Multiplexing
1

Hi there,

I need to whip up a quick prototype and think arduino is the way to go. Wondering which model is the smallest one that will allow me to control 8 LEDs independently.

Also, on that note, is it possible (without too much difficulty and cost) to create my own strip of addressable LEDs?

Thanks for any guidance you can offer!

2

I need to whip up a quick prototype and think arduino is the way to go. Wondering which model is the smallest one that will allow me to control 8 LEDs independently.
I like the Arduino Pro Mini, about $2-3 from EBAY

Also, on that note, is it possible (without too much difficulty and cost) to create my own strip of addressable LEDs?
Very easy using the WS2812B Neo-Pixel ~$1.00 per board (may have minimum charges and shipping See 3PCB)

3

whitetyrone:
I need to whip up a quick prototype and think arduino is the way to go. Wondering which model is the smallest one that will allow me to control 8 LEDs independently.

Can't fault LarryD's advice here. Smallest - and cheapest - "just do it" module is always the Pro Mini, is functionally equivalent to a UNO without USB interface (but with two extra analog inputs).

whitetyrone:
Also, on that note, is it possible (without too much difficulty and cost) to create my own strip of addressable LEDs?

Well now, that depends on why you want to create your "own strip" rather than one ready-built. Using the WS28xx series you only need one or two pins to control an extremely long chain of individually controllable RGB LEDs, so 8 is no trouble at all. The form you want are those with the control IC integrated into the LED chip, so you can get the naked chips

or chips mounted on minimal PCB

or larger assemblies.

Your choice.

4

Smaller than a pro-mini: an ATtiny85. This could drive up to 20 leds (one at a time) using a technique called Charlieplexing. These would be single-colour leds. The leds could blink/flash, even fade in a pre-programmed sequence.

To program the tiny85, you will need a regular Arduino like an Uno, or a ready-made programmer like a USBasp.

A tiny85 can also drive short-meduim lengths of ws2812 leds shown above.

If interested, have a look at this page.

Paul

5

Great input everyone, thanks!

Regarding the question about creating my own strip of addressable LEDs; the reason I want to do this is because I need to use a particular SMD LED and I need to have them spaced at a very specific distance apart on the PCB. Am hoping to run them all in one circuit instead of 8 to cut down on the wiring needs.