Scale

Scale

In theory, a single WS2812 data line can run any number of pixels on a single strand. But some physical issues stand in the way:

• Arduino memory - each pixel takes 3 bytes of SRAM to hold color information, which means an Uno/Nano can run about 300-400 pixels before running out of SRAM. Use a Mega when dealing with large numbers of pixels.
• Data communication - single wire communication protocols like WS series lights require communicating to each pixel sequentially, where each pixel takes ~30µs. This means a single data strand with 1024 pixels will have (at best) a maximum refresh rate of about 30Hz.
• Interference - natural and artificial interference is sometimes unavoidable. Random packet loss can occur at any phase of transmission, and therefore communications may not always be reliably delivered. Keep this in mind when sending any kind of one-off communication from the controller to the generator, especially in situations where you expect it to work every time.
• Power distribution: - each LED strand should be powered from both ends of the strand. However, strands with more than about 200 pixels will still experience a noticeable dip in brightness in the middle when running at high brightness values (high power draws). This "effect" is generally considered undesirable, but might not be noticeable, depending on your application.