11

FIELD TEST

f you are unfamiliar with the micro:bit

platform, you should really check it out.

It’s a pocket-sized device powered by an

ARM Cortex-M0 processor. You can do a

lot with just a micro:bit, but it really shines

once you add accessories. One great

example is the 5×5×5 – Cube:Bit Magical RGB

Cubes of Awesome.

Inspired by the work of Lorraine Underwood we

featured in issue 9, this kit allows you to build a

3D array of RGB LEDs and control them from the

micro:bit. The kit is available in a 3×3×3, 4×4×4, or

enormous 5×5×5 configuration. Regardless of which

size you choose, the cube will have RGB LEDs on

both sides, creating an amazing light show that is

easily controlled through a drag-and-drop interface

of MakeCode.

I

CUBE:BIT MAGICAL $27–$117 shop.pimoroni.com

5×5×5 – Cube:Bit Magical RGB

Cubes of Awesome

Lighting up three dimensions

Regardless of which size you choose, the cube will

have RGB LEDs on both sides, creating an amazing

light show that is easily controlled through a

drag‑and‑drop interface of MakeCode

”

”

Controlling an LED matrix isn’t too difficult if it’s only a

few LEDs. As the matrix grows, you soon run out of pins

or the code just gets really complicated. That’s where

the Adafruit 16×9 Charlieplexed PWM LED Matrix

Driver really shines. This board allows you to connect

a 16×9 LED matrix and easily control each individual

LED, including its brightness. Try doing that with just

your microcontroller!

ADAFRUIT 16×9

CHARLIEPLEXED PWM LED

MATRIX DRIVER

$5.95 adafruit.com

Credit

Adafruit

A variety of sizes

are available

depending on

your budget.

VERDICT

8 / 10

Left

This breakout board

is perfect for working

with LED matrices