Hobbyists worldwide have been developing and improving technology for awesome Christmas light shows. They are assembling displays that are computer controlled and synchronized to music broadcast over FM radio as well as implementing complex patterns and even pictures display in LED lights.
This talk covers the building blocks of sophisticated LED light shows, breaking down the concepts into the core components. Many elements of a computer controlled show can be implemented with Raspberry Pi technology and other homebrew solutions. Free and open source software to create visual patterns and run the display are available. The common pitfalls of power distribution, signal corruption and waterproofing will be discussed. Learn new things about lighting technology and come away understanding how to be the Clark Griswold of your own neighborhood!