DotStar matrix current consumption high when LEDs off

[beatricius]

Hello, I’ve been using the DotStar high density 8x8 LED matrix and noticed that when I was running “bare minimum” code (empty setup() and loop() in Arduino), the matrix was getting warm. This seemed strange since the LEDs were not in use so I measured the current draw and it was ~60 mA.

Then I disconnected the data and clock lines and only left 5V and GND connected and it was still drawing ~ 60mA. Does anybody know where this current is going? Is it possible to “turn off” the LEDs when they are not showing anything? Or lower this consumption in any way?

Many thanks!

[adafruit2]

that's quiescent current, the LEDs are listneing for data. you have to fully disconnect power (with a transistor, switch, what-have-you) to make it go away

[beatricius]

I see, I just thought 60mA was high for quiescent current. But since there's so many LEDs I guess it makes sense. Thank you!