Smart nodes

[devoidelk]

I was wondering is it possible to buy the rgb leds and make the control chips yourself?

[chrisatpsu]

I think what you want to do is possible, I just need more information.

are you thinking along the lines of my smart string project?

[Jeffl]

Probably.  The one we are all hoping to get a video of for a Christmas present.

[jnealand]

I have way more ideas than time or money.  This one would go way down on my priority list since I suspect it would hit both of those things I am short of.

[devoidelk]

I think what you want to do is possible, I just need more information.

are you thinking along the lines of my smart string project?

Yes, like your project but on a mass made level. Like build your own smart strings.

[chrisatpsu]

the problem with building your own smart strings would be pcb cost, and the number you would need for even just a string.

[devoidelk]

The more you buy the cheaper it can be from what I heard. Im thinking around 1k nodes that's ten strings of 100 count incans I would like to replace.

[jnealand]

With a node currently only costing around $.42 each that is only $420  Have you looked at the cost of pcb design, build, and then the labor to do all this.  I'm not sure you could save much money and in fact  could spend a whole lot more.

[devoidelk]

It's the shipping from ray that is murder. That's where I think I could have the biggest savings

[chrisatpsu]

look at what you want to weatherproof the nodes with (silicone, resin, etc...) and see what the price would be for the quantities to coat 1000 nodes.

[chrisatpsu]

I'm not trying to discourage you, just pointing what a PIA is what for me to build the Smart Arches.  I still plan on build my Smart Icicles for next year, but my designs are being contained in some type of enclosure to keep the stupid water out.

[SteveMaris]

Start on them now. You should be good to go by next Christmas.

[davron12]

Not trying to discourage you either, because I've thought of doing the same (only I was thinking of making shapes instead), but if you're only making 1k nodes, I don't think you could buy all the parts to make them for under $1 per node. Also, don't use the shipping cost from aliexpress to calculate shipping 10 strings. Send Ray and email asking for a quote on shipping. It'll be way cheaper. I remember asking Ray for a quote on 30 100-count smart strings, and I think it was around $130. So, as you can see it's definitely a lot cheaper.