pixel project grounding question

C

ctmal

Supporting Member
I'm playing around with a pixel project, just for fun and some learning, but I just want to confirm the grounding before I plug anything in.
Here's the setup.

I have a esp32 D1 knockoff board that will be connected via USB to the computer and will be powered using the USB port(for now, anyway). The D1 board will only be supplying the pixels with the data signal. The pixels will be getting their voltage from an external powersupply.

Now, I think I know the answer but I want to confirm before I risk my computer. Should the ground on the D1 board be connected to the ground on the external power supply?

Full disclosure, I'm thinking yes. If I'm wrong, well, that's why I'm asking.

Thanks.
 
Well. You are sort of correct. Data and V-(aka gnd) from the ESP should/(I say MUST) go to the first pixel. You can also tie it to the PSU but it is IMPORTANT that the pair of wires go from the ESP to the first pixel and it is a nice to have connection from the ESP to the PSU.
 
Thanks all,
The good news is that the initial tests are working and nothing blew up...woohoo.
 
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