Troubleshooting LED pixels

Why are my pixels not lighting, or lighting incorrectly?

First start the PixLite controller's built-in test pattern. If the pixels show it correctly, the cause lies in the software or network. If not, check power, wiring and the pixel type that is set.

Note: Connection to 230 V must be carried out by a qualified electrician.

Symptom, common cause, what to check

Symptom	Common cause	Check
No pixel lights up	no or wrong voltage, string on the wrong output	Power supply on? 5 V pixels on 5 V, 12 V pixels on 12 V? Polarity? String on the correct controller output?
Wrong colours	wrong pixel type in the controller	Pixel type in the controller's web interface or in Advatek Assistant 3
Dark from one point on	connector at that point	Check the connector; swap the string with a working one as a test
End darker or colours shifted	voltage drops along the string	Power injection with T-connector, see Calculating the power supply
Dropouts in bright scenes	power supply too small	Recalculate power at full white, max. 80 % load
Test pattern fine, show not	software or network	IP address, universes and protocol, see Art-Net or sACN?
Problems only when wet	insufficient protection rating	Protection rating of the parts, see LED pixels outdoors

Work from top to bottom and change only one thing at a time.

Quick check with test pattern

The PixLite Mk3 controllers have built-in colour test patterns. They let you check power, wiring and pixel type without lighting software or network being involved. If it does not work, test with the smallest setup: one string on one output.

Mind the data direction

WS2811 and WS2812B pixels pass data on in one direction only. Connect the string to the controller with its input, otherwise it stays dark.

Controller not found

PC and controller on the same network (same subnet)?
Check the PC's firewall
As a test, connect PC and controller directly with a network cable
Restart the controller

Without a DHCP server, the controller assigns itself an address via AutoIP and can then be found in Advatek Assistant 3.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the end of a 12 V string get darker?

The voltage drops along the string. With regulated pixels the brightness stays the same until they switch off below approx. 7–8 V. More in the guide Resistor or regulated?.

Can I run 5 V and 12 V pixels on one power supply?

No. The power supply voltage must match the pixels: 5 V pixels on a 5 V power supply, 12 V pixels on a 12 V power supply.

A single pixel is faulty. What now?

First check the connectors before it. If the pixel stays dark, get in touch via Contact.

Where do I find suitable connectors and T-connectors?

Under Connectors & cables.

Can't find the fault? Describe your setup and the symptom, and we will help you track it down.

Get in touch