Additional model layout question

[nutz4lights]

Hey all,

I created a wall of pumpkins this year for Halloween (video link below running a generic test pattern).  The pumpkins are artificial obviously.  I decided to arrange them in a five wide by eight high array thinking that I could make some pretty cool effects.  Each pumpkin has five ws2811 bullet style pixels in it mainly just for brightness and the ability to pass the bullet pixels thru a small hole.

http://vimeo.com/142828210

What I want to know is, is there a way to use the standard vertical matrix tool for this?  Do I need to set up the grouping in the controller to handle this so that each location in the matrix behaves like a single light bulb?  Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Louie

[JonB256]

Louie, you don't mention which Pixel controller.

In most (though I'm partial to Falcon), you would set the output channel to groups of 5. 5 pixels would act like 1 pixel. Then your matrix would just be a Vertical or Horizontal Matrix of 8x5. As far as xLights knew, you would only be using 40 pixels, not 200.

Do you have pixels "between" pumpkins that you want to keep dark?

For example, you want 1,2,3,4,5 then the next pumpkin is actually 8,9,10,11,12. You would want 6 and 7 to never light. That could be a Custom Model in xLights or you could use the Null Pixel option on a controller like the Falcon F16v2.  Or, you could do a lot of cutting and splicing.

[nutz4lights]

Thanks for the reply Jon.  The F16 is one of the ONLY controllers I don't have... Yet. ;-)

I have p12s controllers, San Devices, advatek... No F16.  I think I've seen the grouping functionality in those controllers so I will go with that and your suggestion for setting up xlights.  I've never done grouping before, so may post back in if I get stuck.

Thanks again!

Louie