what hardware would I need

[Niceguy]

I have been playing with the xlights software for a little bit. I'd like to set up an all pixel show just using xlights/nucracker. (I just have a static display now)

I'd like to be able to program everything, then move the file to an SD card so I don't have to have a computer running the show.
At first I will most likely do just effects without music, but would like to be able to add music later if I choose.

Is this possible with xlights? What hardware would I need besides the pixels and power supplies?

Thanks in advance!

[uzelessknowledge]

Check this out. FPP is pretty awesome. It'll be running my show and it's what I believe the developers of XLights now use.
http://falconchristmas.com/forum/index.php/topic,200.0.html

[gerry]

Hi,

In addition to the Raspberry Pi (on which the FP runs) , you would need at least one controller to control the lights.  You may wish  to consider the Falcon F16v2 , there is a group buy about to end. There are other smaller ones as well.

[Niceguy]

Thank you for the help!

[Niceguy]

looks like I'll have to wait until next year for the falcon board.

Would the Alphapix4 work the same way with a raspberry and FPP?

http://www.holidaycoro.com/AlphaPix-4-V2-RGB-Pixel-Controller-p/722-v2.htm

[Phrog30]

looks like I'll have to wait until next year for the falcon board.

Would the Alphapix4 work the same way with a raspberry and FPP?

http://www.holidaycoro.com/AlphaPix-4-V2-RGB-Pixel-Controller-p/722-v2.htm

I would recommend the PixLite 4 over the alphapix. The alphapix are new and are plagued with firmware problems.

But to answer your question, yes, it will essentially work the same. I assume you understand the alphapix 4 is only 4 outputs, where the Falcon is 16, plus an additional 16 if you get the adder board.

James

[Niceguy]

thanks for the recommendation. Yes, I know its only 4 channels. I figured that would get be me going then I could add on a falcon 16 next year.

I only picked the Alphapix because I planned on ordering some RBG lights from Holiday Coro anyway. Put ill look into the pixlite.

[Phrog30]

HolidayCoro used to sell the PixLite brand. David (HolidayCoro) started his own line, which is basically the PixLite with horrible features and firmware.

While the PixLite 4 is only 4 outputs, it can do a crap ton of pixels, I believe 680 per output.

They both offer 3 year warranty. Advatek offers free shipping. Even though Advatek is Australia, the boards ship from a warehouse in the states.

[uzelessknowledge]

Love my PixLite. Super support from the guys in Australia.
I have one and bought my in laws one.
Yes, it only has 4 outputs but like Phrog30 said you can run a lot of pixels. You just have to plan your power because the board can't handle all that power.
I'm using the PixLite for my first year show. I've got 6 trees (4 36" and 2 24"), 4 arches, 300 pixel tune to and floods. All on only 3 outputs. Using 3 PSU. All pixels from HolidayCoro.
I picked up a falcon for next year and also playing with a beagle bone for P10's.
The show will be run with 2 PI's running FPP and a vast fm transmitter.

Welcome to the madness.

[Niceguy]

Thanks for the help.

I planning on doing my roofline with the c9s from holiday Coro and maybe outlining my garage doors and maybe something else.
I was going to split my roofline in half (50 pixels each) and my garage would make the third channel.

No music this year, I just want to do some cool effects and loop it a few hours a night.