Light Show Details
If you're interested in setting up a holiday light show similar to mine, be aware that this isn't a simple plug-and-play process. Here's how I built mine, starting with small steps and gradually expanding into a fully synchronized system.
Getting Started with Govee Lights (No audio)
I began with a single product from Twinkly Lights as Govee lights were not on the market when I started. It was a fantastic entry-level option, as I could design light patterns directly from my phone and push the changes wirelessly. Everything was self-contained and easy to manage at first.
However, as I added more Twinkly devices, I hit a limitation. Managing a larger number of devices became complex, and this remains the most problematic part of my setup today.
Advancing with X-Lights and Falcon Player (FPP)
To take my displays further, I started using X-Lights. This software allowed me to create more advanced sequences and transmit them to my lights over the network in real time. While powerful, this approach had its downsides:
- It caused network slowdowns and introduced jitter during the shows.
- I needed to leave my computer on to run the shows.
That's when I switched to FalconPlayer (FPP), a small, low-power computer system (similar to a Raspberry Pi) that can run shows automatically on a schedule. If you're not familiar with these small computers, there is a steep learning curve, but it's worth it.
Pre-Assembled Options for Non-Techies
If you're not technically savvy, don’t worry! You can buy pre-assembled products and decorations from various online retailers. There are even businesses that can help with the setup. However, going down the DIY path gives you more flexibility and customization.
Managing Larger Light Shows
Each mini-computer, like those from KulpLights.com, can support up to 60,000 lights, but for smoother shows, I recommend limiting each computer to about 1,000 lights. These computers allow you to plug lights directly into them, but you'll need to do some soldering and waterproofing to prevent damage from water exposure.
Synchronizing Shows Across Multiple Computers
Once you have multiple computers set up, you'll need to break the light show into segments, where each computer controls a different section. The computers then need to synchronize with each other to play the show in harmony. This requires some additional training, but there are plenty of tutorials online to help. Synchronization minimizes the amount of data traveling across your network, improving performance.
Networking for Your Show
Here’s where computer networking skills come in handy. To avoid slowing down your home network, it's best to create a dedicated network just for the light show. This ensures the show traffic doesn't impact your normal internet usage.
Power Considerations and Relays
From an electrical engineering standpoint, power needs to be managed carefully. For example, strings can be up to 1,000 lights long, but you’ll need to inject power every 50-100 lights.
If you want to control non-light devices, like inflatables or other decorations that plug into the wall, you can integrate relays into your system. I create "fake lights" in the software that control relays, which can turn on or off extension cords connected to these devices.
Custom Mounting Solutions with 3D Printing
Finally, all this equipment needs to be mounted or housed in some kind of structure. You can purchase pre-made enclosures online, but if you're aiming for a neat and customized setup, I recommend using a 3D printer. I design and print all my mounts and enclosures, which saves a lot of money. For example, my 25-foot-tall tree is made of black iron pipe, with 3D-printed components that cost me less than $50, compared to the $1,500 I would have spent on DIY parts online. This mounting system excludes the cost of lights and computer as that price can vary greatly depending on the setup.
Check back later as I recorded a video while I completed my setup this year.
