matrixLEDs

MatrixLEDs refer to arrays of light-emitting diodes arranged in a grid that can be controlled as a display or indicator by multiplexing. They are used to produce signs, readouts, dashboards, and small to large display panels, offering a scalable way to drive many LEDs with relatively few control lines. Matrices can be monochrome or color, with common form factors including 8x8, 16x16, and larger panels, as well as flexible or rigid modules.

In a matrix, each LED lies at the intersection of a row and a column. The rows (or the columns) are driven by a common supply while the opposite direction lines are driven as sinks. Lighting an individual LED requires energizing its row and its column simultaneously. To display images or characters, the array is scanned rapidly by selectively activating rows (or columns) in sequence while setting the appropriate states on the orthogonal lines. Color matrices add RGB subpixels, enabling fuller color displays. Brightness is typically controlled via PWM or constant-current drivers, and in many designs, per-LED brightness is achieved by adjusting the duty cycle during the row/column scan.

Control and integration commonly use dedicated LED matrix driver ICs or microcontrollers with SPI or I2C interfaces. Popular driver chips include types that manage multiplexing, current regulation, and simple grayscale or color control. Applications span hobbyist projects, signage, scoreboards, electronic badges, and compact displays in consumer electronics. Challenges include limited grayscale without additional techniques, ghosting or crosstalk between adjacent LEDs, and the need for heat and power management at larger sizes.

See also LED matrix, dot matrix display, display technology.