How to use neopixel ring with arduino mega

Question

@DJ, can you use the arduino mega with a neopixel ring without using an EZB? thank in advance  cheers

DJ Sures · Accepted Answer

Ideally it would make sense to add neopixel capability directly to the mega firmware. I believe the neopixel robot skill uses a secondary arduino due to the timing required.  so I think you’d need the second arduino no matter what because the servos and pwm use the timers.  so ya, just use the robot skill I guess. I’ve never had good success with those neo pixels before. Not sure why lol

Redzone · Answer

@DJ, can you use the arduino mega with a neopixel ring without using an EZB? thank in advance  cheers

Redzone · Answer

@DJ, so if I use an arduino uno for the neopixel ring. I would then connect the uno to the arduino mega using the digital port of the Servo port?    Thanks again for your fast response. As Dave has said be for, you Canadians are the best neighbors! Cheers!

DJ Sures · Answer

I'm not sure how the neopixel robot skill works. It might work by the ezb port or a com port. This robot skill for the neopixel can be found here: https://synthiam.com/Support/Skills/Misc/Neopixel-Ring?id=16158 It's made by Cochran robotics, and there's a writeup on how to use it. It looks like it uses the COM port that the arduino is connected to. So I do not believe it goes through an EZB connection.

Redzone · Answer

I got my only uno working but it will make the arduino mega disconnect. I’m not sure if it’s my uno so I ordered a new one.  Once I receive it I will check if it still makes my mega disconnect, hopefully not.  I’ll let you know. Thanks again DJ.   merne

DJ Sures · Answer

I don't see why it should - they're on separate COM ports. A COM port is locked when connected, so another attempted connection would result in an error, not a disconnection. I'm able to connect multiple mega's and micro's (leonardo's) together. I prefer the leonardo because they're so small. This is the one I use: https://www.amazon.ca/KEYESTUDIO-Micro-Atmega32U4-Cable-Arduino/dp/B07J55YWKZ/ref=sr_1_10?dchild=1&keywords=arduino+leonardo&qid=1635384239&s=electronics&sr=1-10

Redzone · Answer

@DJ, I got my Arduino uno in and programed it using David Cochran's tutorial.  I now have to use the USB cable or while running neopixel codes/commands.  Fun thing is I do not have to do this before.  I would just use the 5Volt step down connected to the uno  and the codes used to work.  I don't remember which Arduino script I used before my first Arduino uno broke.   But at lest it is now working.:) I have not used the KEYESTUDIO 5V Pro Micro, I did order a Arduino Pro mini which I will try and see if I do not need the USB cable plugged in. If any other member has any suggestions as to why I now need the USB cable so the neopixle ring does not lockup without using the USB cable that would be great Thanks again @DJ for all your help! PS I am not resolving this until maybe someone else know why this now needs the USB cable to work. Here are some links from David Cochran... https://synthiam.com/Community/Tutorials/NeoPixel-Ring-with-Arduino-as-control-board-16275 https://synthiam.com/Support/Skills/Misc/Neopixel-Ring?id=16158 https://synthiam.com/Community/Questions/Help-Connecting-A-Neopixel-Ring-2512

Redzone · Answer

@DJ, After looking at my wiring, I found the 5V input was not connecting do to a bad wire.  After replacing that wire the neopixel rings now work without having the USB cable connected.  Sorry for all the posts.  If you like you can delete them.  BTY I am still waiting for my Arduino Pro mini to try it out. Thanks and Cheers!

DJ Sures · Answer

Awesome . We don’t delete posts that add value to other users. I’m sure your question will help someone in the future

Redzone

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