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!
Rob Joyce’s (@RGB_Lights) wife thinks he has a problem. He has been building computerized Christmas light shows for the last five years, adding new elements every year. His most recent display was likely visible from the international space station. In addition to an infatuation with Christmas light displays, he helped a Boy Scout troop built catapults for the annual Punkin Chunkin competition until lawyers ruined it for all of us. To pay for these hobbies, he works as the White House Cybersecurity Coordinator and has led organizations at the NSA doing both foreign intelligence and cybersecurity work.