Introduction: LED Mousepad
Hello! This is an instructable for those who want to make a LED mousepad. Follow the instructions and you should be able to make a really cool addition to any desk, anywhere!
Step 1: Materials
For this project you need:
x4 Breadboard wires
Glue (or duct tape)
Step 2: The Cardboard
Go on OnShape and create a shape - we used a rectangle. Choose your dimensions and send it off to your laser cutter. Cut it out and move on.
Step 3: The Acrylic
Use OnShape to create a shape with the same dimensions as the cardboard. This will be the acrylic shape. Once you do this, create a small hole in the edge of the shape to make room for the LED (on OnShape). Then, send this to the laser cutter and cut it out.
Step 4: The Circuitry
This is the circuitry part of the project. Plug in the Arduino Uno and connect it to the computer. Hold the breadboard to the side and connect four breadboard wires from the Uno to the breadboard as follows:
5V on Uno>G23 on breadboard
GRND on Uno>G21 on breadboard
PIN9 on Uno>G22 on breadboard
PIN10 on Uno>G24 on breadboard
Now, take your LED and plug it into J24, J23, J22, and J21 facing the LED away from the wires. Once the Uno is connected to the computer, the LED should light up.
Step 5: The Programming
This is the programming step. This is pretty straightforward. Simply go to these links:
https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_NeoPixel - Download the ZIP and extract it.
http://pastebin.com/yBFdGX3N - Copy and paste this code into your Arduino program in order to produce a rainbow effect.
Step 6: Put It All Together!
Slide the LED into the space where you cut the acrylic. Sandwich the acrylic between your cardboard and glue them together. You could also use duct tape for a less permanent hold.
Step 7: Make It Mobile
Connect the Arduino into a portable power source (like a battery) to keep it lit on the go.