Signal, Logic, and Light
Instructor: Mark Hellar (Hellar Studios LLC)
Location: TIAT (151 Powell St)
Cost: $200 (Includes instruction + full hardware kit)
Overview
Ever wanted to create your own programmable light art? This workshop breaks down the tech behind 'addressable' LEDs. You'll learn how to assemble individual components into a smart, networked light show from scratch.
1. The Hardware: Assembly & Soldering We start with the hardware foundation. You will solder headers to an ESP32-C3 microcontroller and connect it to an addressable 64(8x8) LED Matrix. To move the project from a "bench prototype" to a finished object, I am providing custom laser-cut enclosures from my studio to house the electronics.
2. The Logic: Programming (Arduino C++) We will use the FastLED and Adafruit NeoPixel libraries to write procedural code that result in algorithmic led animations! This class is geared for begginers, so no worries if you have never coded before, we will do it together!
3. The Expanded Field: Networking & Control (WLED & DMX) The second half moves the hardware into a networked environment:
WLED: Deploying WLED for instant browser-based configuration
The Networked Signal: Configuring your hardware as a networked E1.31 node(DMX over IP). We will drive the lights wirelessly from TouchDesigner, treating your hardware as a multi-channel canvas for live visuals.
To show how these methods scale, I’ll also be showing a 4,000 LED setup (powered by a single power supply and parallel data pins) to demonstrate the power management and signal logic required for larger installations.
To get some inspiration, we'll head down to Union Square Station during the break to check out the 'Lucy in the Sky' installation by Erwin Redl. We’ll take a look at how this massive DMX-controlled LED array is put together and how it transforms the station's architecture.
The Hardware Kit
Everything needed for the build is included:
ESP32-C3 Microcontroller (WiFi-enabled)
8x8 WS2812 Adressable LED Matrix
5V Power Supply
Custom Hellar Studios laser-cut structural housing
What to bring: A laptop with the Arduino IDE installed. https://www.arduino.cc/en/software/ (Arduino IDE 2.3.7) and the latest version ot Touchdesigner, https://derivative.ca/ We'll provide the soldering irons and the rest of the kit.