Matrix size layout help

[uzelessknowledge]

So, I want to add a matrix for next year. I'm not convinced I want to go with panels because 1) i don't have a workshop space to build some kind of enclosure 2) I also don't have the tools.
With that said I'm thinking of using pixels and doing a matrix. I did a small 10x20 matrix for this years tune to sign. I'm thinking of a 4'x4' or so, but then I wondered if I needed to get around the 4:3 ratio.
So what would be a good size for viewing at about 35-50 feet? Is 2" spacing sufficient?

I want to maximize output capacity and know I will need to power inject. I'm confused on how to make the matrix. If I do a 20x24 pixel matrix (40"x48") then I could put the first 360 pixels (18 strands on one output) and the remainder on a second output. How do you define this in XL? I can't do 2 strings of x pixels at 24 strands because they aren't even.

Thanks
Travis

[Gilrock]

I assume you mean two outputs on the same controller.  That's what is nice about xLights it doesn't need to know which output you are using.  You just map all the channels to the IP address of the controller and then on the controller you route the data to the outputs.

[uzelessknowledge]

Ahh. That makes sense. I wondered that after I typed that question.
So just make the matrix 1 string of 24 strands? Then the channels are consecutive. Then make sure the 2 controller outputs have consecutive channel numbers?


Travis
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[Gilrock]

If you do 1 string of 24 strands then it will do folding in xlights and you will need to put in the number of nodes for the whole matrix.  It's easier to tell the controller to fold the data but you haven't told us what your using.  If I was creating an 80 horizontal by 64 vertical matrix then in xlights I tell it I have 64 strings with 80 nodes per string and 1 strand per string.  Just try it and if things aren't working post your setup screenshots.

[uzelessknowledge]

Cool. Yeah, I think it's easier to fold in XL because I try to maximize pixels per output. This lets me do various elements in the same output.
We'll see how that works out.

Any suggestion on matrix size? With my tune to its 10x20. I used Arial at 13 and it took up 8 pixels and looked good.
Thanks.


Travis
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[arw01]

I found 10 pixels too limited besides some text and simple simple graphics.  Putting some P10 panels on the garage to get the true 16 high this year if I make it that far, spent too many days chasing around my tail trying to find all the controllers I didn't put away properly apparently.

There are a number of coro products with spacing at 1", which is what i used for last years matrix at 10x 51 wide.  Personally i want a little more density, they do get bright with more pixels.

[Gilrock]

I found 10 pixels too limited besides some text and simple simple graphics.  Putting some P10 panels on the garage to get the true 16 high this year if I make it that far, spent too many days chasing around my tail trying to find all the controllers I didn't put away properly apparently.

There are a number of coro products with spacing at 1", which is what i used for last years matrix at 10x 51 wide.  Personally i want a little more density, they do get bright with more pixels.

.

Sounds like me...I just had to spent last weekend cleaning up the garage that still has stuff laying around I didn't put away last Christmas

Cool. Yeah, I think it's easier to fold in XL because I try to maximize pixels per output. This lets me do various elements in the same output.
We'll see how that works out.

Any suggestion on matrix size? With my tune to its 10x20. I used Arial at 13 and it took up 8 pixels and looked good.
Thanks.


Travis
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Folding in xLights doesn't help with maximizing pixels per output.   You can have the same number of pixels in the output you just tell the controller your fold interval and it flips the data stream every x number of pixels.

[uzelessknowledge]

Hey arw01. I'm only using that size for the tune to. Trying to come up with a larger one for next year. I like the p10 idea but don't have the means to waterproof them. For my sign I'm using some plastic mesh from homedepot that lets me get the pixels almost touching but I'm doing 1" for the sign.

Gil:
Example. I have my tune too followed by arches. All on the same controller output. In using the PixLite 4 so I get 680 pixels per output.
If I fold or zigzag in the controller then the arches don't display right. So I leave the controller in sequential order and just fold in XL.


Travis
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[uzelessknowledge]

Gil, side question. I watched your video last night on matrix faces. You pulled in some snowman images. Did you draw those? So I can basically draw any picture I want and put a mouth on it and animate?


Travis
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[Gilrock]

Yes you can use any picture.  Someone posted those images on here.

[arw01]

James is working on some frame pieces that will let you make the frame with modicum of skill.  I'm thinking of using the window shrink they sell for winterizing for the front of mine.

[uzelessknowledge]

Thanks guys.
Think I may order some pixels from Ray to text matrix sizes and also some p10's to play with.


Travis
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[uzelessknowledge]

James is working on some frame pieces that will let you make the frame with modicum of skill.  I'm thinking of using the window shrink they sell for winterizing for the front of mine.

Didn't think about that. Shrink wrap them in. What about the back?


Travis
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[uzelessknowledge]

Well guys. Panels it is. Much cheaper and the pixels will be grouped closer. I was fortunate to find a local guy and he's hooking me up.
I'm starting with 6 for a 3wx2h, but I already want more and don't have those yet. HA!