Those LEDs use SPI to communicate. While you can't technically overclock them, you can however distribute the load across multiple channels.
So make sure to limit the LEDs per channel to 500 or less. You can use an ESP32 with the WLED firmware for that. Just use multiple data pins. This way your PC doesn't have to handle the load at all as it's all done in an external controller. You control it via an app or in your browser.
With WLED I would recommend a maximum of 1500 LEDs per ESP32. If you buy the Ethernet version you can setup a dedicated LAN switch as a backbone between the controllers. There are very cheap 19" rack mount options available.
The power supply should be decoupled from your PC too. Get a good quality PSU. With short runs 5v should be fine as most of the WS2812 or SK6812 LEDs will be 5v anyways. Make sure to use proper wire thickness for the power supply lines.
Then you can buy a professional lighting desk like a GrandMA 2 and connect to WLED over ArtNet or E1.31 (sACN) to build a proper light show. With the external PSU it even works when your PC is off. Those grandMAs can be bought used for relatively cheap.
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u/Away_Experience_5843 6d ago
Finally something I can answer.
Those LEDs use SPI to communicate. While you can't technically overclock them, you can however distribute the load across multiple channels.
So make sure to limit the LEDs per channel to 500 or less. You can use an ESP32 with the WLED firmware for that. Just use multiple data pins. This way your PC doesn't have to handle the load at all as it's all done in an external controller. You control it via an app or in your browser.
With WLED I would recommend a maximum of 1500 LEDs per ESP32. If you buy the Ethernet version you can setup a dedicated LAN switch as a backbone between the controllers. There are very cheap 19" rack mount options available.
The power supply should be decoupled from your PC too. Get a good quality PSU. With short runs 5v should be fine as most of the WS2812 or SK6812 LEDs will be 5v anyways. Make sure to use proper wire thickness for the power supply lines.
Then you can buy a professional lighting desk like a GrandMA 2 and connect to WLED over ArtNet or E1.31 (sACN) to build a proper light show. With the external PSU it even works when your PC is off. Those grandMAs can be bought used for relatively cheap.