What is a Controller?
A “controller” is a device that sends power and data to the lights to tell them when to turn on and off at a particular color and intensity. In the case of DIY pixels, at the simplest it’s usually a waterproof box containing one or more power supplies, a controller board and “pigtail” connectors to connect to the lights.
The controller is the middleman between your show and your lights.
What a controller Does
Receives data
Runs your xLights sequences from FPP and plays them exactly as programmed.
Powers pixels
Provides 5 or 12 volts DC to Pixels.
Controls colors
Sends RGB mix to pixels to ensure perfect colors.
Connects to lights
The controller effectively tells the lights (pixels) exactly what to do and when.
How It Fits Together
Common Controller Hardware
Pixel Controllers (WS2811)
Flexible and powerful options to make your light show spectacular!
View Options →Twinkly Controllers
Twinkly devices include controllers – but they are very limited compared to Pixel (WS2811) controllers.
Shop Twinkly →In short: FPP manages your show… the controller makes it happen.