Is this the World's Smallest Addressable LED?
We're excited to introduce what we believe is the world's smallest addressable LED, the SMD LED - Addressable RGB APA-104-1010.
The SMD LED - Addressable RGB APA-104-1010. Measuring an astonishingly small 1.0mm x 1.0mm, this LED represents the cutting edge of miniaturization in electronic components. But how did we get here? Let's take a brief journey through the history of addressable LEDs and explore how they have shrunk to this incredible size.
The Evolution of Addressable LEDs
From being simple status indicators to interactive art installations, addressable LEDs have been integrated into electronics in many ways. Unlike traditional LEDs, many of which are limited a single color, addressable LEDs simplify the process by embedding control circuitry within each LED to change color and brightness through simple code. This advancement allowed for individual control over each LED in a strip or sequence, making it easier to create intricate lighting effects.
The concept of addressable LEDs can be traced back to the development of smart lighting systems in the early 2000s. One of the earliest models that gained popularity was the WS2801 by Worldsemi, an LED driver IC that enabled control of RGB LEDs via a simple two-wire SPI interface. The WS2801 was soon followed by integrated models like the WS2812s, which embedded the driver within the LED package, simplifying the design and reducing the size.
Manufacturers improved these systems and developed even more compact models, such as the APA102C series (manufactured by APA Electronics Co., Ltd.) which offered faster data rates and better color stability. The APA102C-5050 and APA102-2020 are prime examples of how addressable LEDs have become smaller and more efficient, setting the stage for the miniaturized APA-104-1010. See the chart below to compare the Addressable LED options we currently carry on our webstore.
| APA-104-1010 | APA102-2020 | APA102C-5050 | WS2812B 5050 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size (mm) | 1.0 x 1.0 | 2.0 x 2.0 | 5.0 x 5.0 | 5.0 x 5.0 |
| Operating Voltage (V) | 3.3 - 5.5 | 3.3 - 5.5 | 3.3 - 5.5 | 3.3 - 5.5 |
| Max Current per LED (mA) | 15 | 30 | 60 | 60 |
| Color Depth (Bits) | 24-bit | 24-bit | 24-bit | 24-bit |
| Integrated IC | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Control Protocol | Single-wire | SPI | SPI | Single-wire |
1.0mm x 1.0mm!?
The trend towards miniaturization in electronic components is driven by many factors, including the demand for more compact devices, the need for energy efficiency, and the pursuit of higher resolution in displays and lighting applications. As technology advanced the addressable LED became smaller and smaller.
The latest innovation in this field is the APA-104-1010, which our founder calls "insanely small". At just 1.0mm x 1.0mm, these LEDs retain the functionality of their larger predecessors while taking up a fraction of the space.
These tiny LEDs are particularly significant for applications where space and weight are at a premium. We really think that these LEDs give the ability to fit into more versatile PCB shapes especially in wearable technology and drones, where every millimeter and gram counts, the APA-104-1010 will allow designers to incorporate RGB lighting into devices without compromising on size or weight.
Drawbacks?
One small drawback for these LEDs is that they are pretty sensitive to humidity and can crack during reflow. No need to worry though, SparkFun makes sure to ship them in humidity sealed bags.
All in all, the SMD LED - Addressable RGB APA-104-1010 is more than just the latest in a long line of addressable LEDs — it's a testament to how far we've come with electronics. By continuing to push the limits of miniaturization, we're not just making smaller components; we're opening the door to new innovations that were previously unimaginable. We're proud to carry this item and we can't wait to see how we, and others, use this incredible new LED in their builds.
