Are these two 8x16 LED Matrix backpacks functionally identic Moderators: adafruit_support_bill, adafruit

[BlinkyKB]

Other than the fact that one will directly mount 2x 8x8 matrices and the other will not, are these two backpacks functionally the same?:

Adafruit 16x8 LED Matrix Driver Backpack - HT16K33 Breakout
PRODUCT ID: 1427
https://www.adafruit.com/product/1427

and

Adafruit 8x16 LED Matrix FeatherWing w/o Matrices
PRODUCT ID: 3090
https://www.adafruit.com/product/3090

I want to use several backpacks to create a large dot matrix display, and I want to run it through I2C from a Grand Central using CircuitPython, can I do that?

And, can I control the brightness? The example code suggests I can but the product description of the non-featherwing backpack says, "Note that the driver can turn LEDs on and off but does not have the ability to individually PWM dim them." So, I am confused....

Thanks in advance for the help!

[dastels]

Yes. Look at the schematics. The only real difference is the LED array and the feather connections.

Dave

[BlinkyKB]

Yes. Look at the schematics. The only real difference is the LED array and the feather connections.

Dave

Ok, thank you.

[adafruit_support_carter]

As another option, there's a double backpack version for the 1.2" LED matrices. Various colors, square or round pixels, see here:
https://www.adafruit.com/category/326

You can control brightness globally, but not per pixel.

If you want individual pixel brightness control, consider the charlieplexed options:
https://learn.adafruit.com/i31fl3731-16 ... led-driver

[BlinkyKB]

As another option, there's a double backpack version for the 1.2" LED matrices. Various colors, square or round pixels, see here:
https://www.adafruit.com/category/326

You can control brightness globally, but not per pixel.

If you want individual pixel brightness control, consider the charlieplexed options:
https://learn.adafruit.com/i31fl3731-16 ... led-driver

Great! Thanks for the tips. That driver you linked looks perfect for my needs.