StarBurst

Pixel Starburst Rainbow

Introduction

A pixel StarBurst added to your display adds a lot of possibilities for effects. You can use any of the Nutcracker effects built in to xLights, Vixen 3 and soon other sequencing software to easily add exciting movement to this prop. With the addition of a lighted post, you can create an effect that looks like a firework being shot into the air and exploding.

The pixel starburst we're going to make has 8 spokes that are 32" long. Each of the spokes has 22 pixels on it for a total of 176 individually controlled light points. This demonstration will show it connected to an E682 by SanDevices, but it could just as easily be controlled by any of the pixel controllers out there.

Check out a video of the StarBurst in action: StarBurst Video

Materials Required

Below are the parts required to make a StarBurst. If you're making more than one, just multiply the quantity by two.

   - Qty. 2: 4-way PVC Junction
   - Qty. 3: 10' PVC Pipes
   - Qty. 1: 2.5" #10 Machine Screw
   - Qty. 1: #10 Nut
   - Qty. 1: 1.5" Screw (any screw will do)
   - Qty. 2: Pixel Strips (30 pcs/meter 30 ICs/meter)
   - Qty. 1: Waterproof Pixel Power Connector
   - Qty. 1: Tube Clear Silicon Caulk
   - PVC Glue (Clear Recommended)
   - 20ga Blue, Brown & White Wire (you can use whatever colors you want)
   - Zip-Ties

Tools Required:

   - Saw to cut PVC
   - Scissors
   - Wire Cutters/Strippers
   - Soldering Iron
   - Solder
   - Blue Tape (not required, but helpful)