Programmable RGB LED Ring V3 with ATmega168P (12 LEDs, Serial/I2C)

The Programmable RGB LED Ring V3 is a 61mm circular lighting module featuring 12 individually addressable RGB LEDs powered by an onboard ATmega168P microcontroller. It operates independently with preloaded light scripts or interfaces directly with host controllers via Serial and I2C. It is an ideal visual feedback solution for makers, robotics hobbyists, and wearable electronics designers.

Individually addressable RGB LEDs

Twelve SMD RGB LEDs are arranged in a 61mm circular layout, with each pixel offering independent colour and brightness control. The onboard processor renders smooth gradients, animations, and transitions locally without burdening an external host.

Stand-alone microcontroller operation

An integrated ATmega168P microcontroller with an Optiboot diecimila bootloader runs built-in lighting scripts immediately upon receiving 5V power. Two onboard push buttons provide immediate user interaction and manual mode switching without requiring external hardware.

Serial and I2C connectivity

The module features flexible Serial and I2C interfaces for seamless communication with Arduino and other embedded development platforms. Multiple rings can also be chained across the I2C bus to build synchronised, multi-module visual displays from a single master controller.

Upgradeable Arduino-compatible firmware

Firmware is fully customisable and can be reprogrammed through an FTDI breakout board using the Arduino IDE (selected as LilyPad). This allows developers to write bespoke lighting routines, reactive indicator patterns, or tailored animation sequences.

Included connection hardware

The package includes one Rainbow LED Ring V3 board, five 90-degree pin headers, two straight pin headers, and a jumper wire to facilitate quick installation and breadboard prototyping.

Downloads & documentation

• Product wiki (DFRobot)