Pwm signal distance

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1

Hi,
First time post so apologies if my electronics lingo is not quite there.
Looking to replace my pool lights and was wondering if the following is ok.
I was planning to use a Neo pixel ring driven by Arduino.
I have 3 to replace. I think i can waterproof them no issues.
What i am unaware of is distance of pwm signal from the Arduino. The furthest distance that i am expecting is about 10 metres. Will i have issues on signal loss?
I will be addressing the possible voltage loss on the power input by sending out 12v and have 12v to 5v strip downs closer to each light as i thought that sending out 5v over 10m might result in to much power drop.
The lights will then be controlled through an Arduino and HA interface.

Ideas?
Patrick

2

Hi Patrick,

The problem will not be sending 5v over 10 meters. You will experience some voltage drop but not much. Your problem will be sending the data signal those distances. A general rule of thumb is that you cannot send a Neopixel data signal more than 10 meters. You could try using a logic level shifter mid way through the span to “boost” the signal, but they operate on extremely tight timing tolerances and most likely you will just need to find a way to keep the distance under 10 meters.

The neopixels will operate at a lower voltage than 5V, they just won’t be as bright. A 0.5V drop will be nearly unnoticeable.

3

Stephen
Thanks for that. My layout means that i can get my pwm signal under 10m.
Will have a play with it.

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