Pixel Controllers and Power Boards

A pixel controller takes show data from xLights or FPP over E1.31 or DDP, then drives your pixel strings on its output ports. Size it by pixel count first. Boards on this shelf run 2 to 48 outputs, and the larger Falcon and Kulp builds carry 1,024 pixels per output. Match the controller's voltage to your pixels.

Sizing ports to your pixel count

One universe carries 170 RGB pixels, which sets every port limit you'll read. Frame rate and run length move the working figure, so leave headroom rather than planning to the maximum. The VIVID 8 and Genius PRO boards take 5V to 24V. Falcon and Kulp builds are specified at 13VDC. Whichever LED pixel controller you land on, the pixels decide the voltage, not the board: the 5V, 12V, and 24V breakdown sorts out mixed strings.

Ready-to-Run vs. controller only

A Ready-to-Run build ships in an enclosure with the power supply and pigtails wired. A controller-only board is the bare board. You'll add a supply, enclosure, and wiring before it lights a pixel. If you're expanding rather than starting a show, look at the differential receivers. They ride a long-range port out to the prop, past the distance where a standard data run starts to break up.

With your pixel count in hand, start with the grid. If you're stuck on ports and power, book a one-hour consult at $120 and we'll size it with you.