24 or 16 channels

**olingerjccj** · 10-16-2009, 11:29 AM

Hello all,

This will be my 1st attempt at animated. to do list build the renard, sequence songs, lay out my lights. Would you all start with the 16 channel or just go for the 24 channel.

Thanks
John

**g2ktcf** · 10-16-2009, 11:31 AM

this late, you need as few channels as possible...however, there is not much difference between to two except $$$

**51fordf2** · 10-16-2009, 11:43 AM

If you get the 24, you can only use 16, if you decide to. If you get the 16, you can't decide to use 24...

R

**g2ktcf** · 10-16-2009, 11:45 AM

Originally Posted by 51fordf2

If you get the 24, you can only use 16, if you decide to. If you get the 16, you can't decide to use 24...

R

Well Said Roger!!!

**olingerjccj** · 10-16-2009, 11:47 AM

Originally Posted by g2ktcf

this late, you need as few channels as possible...however, there is not much difference between to two except $$$

I know I am super late but the animated bug has totally got me. 8 more channels would give me a bit more flexablity, but a bit more to sequence.

John

**rokkett** · 10-16-2009, 11:48 AM

I just finished my first and I went with the SS24. I had soldered before and know a little (very little) about electrical - so I went for the most ports.

If you are completely new to this - maybe go as low as an SS8 so you can keep it simple, keep the cost down, and see a successful result quickly.

But the price per port drops as you move up the line - so...

Some things to consider that I am now tackling:

If all of your ports a located in one location - you will have to pull electrical back to the controller.

If you have them spread out, multiple "area" controllers would be electrically simpler. Just a single communication line to each area rather than many electrical lines fanning out from a central controller.

I am think about building two SS8 next for the right and left side of my front porch. And using the SS24 to control a mega tree and/or a grouping of smaller trees. (After watching everyone's videos - may SS16s?

So maybe have more ports in each area then is really required so I can adapt quickly?

Probably just the one controller this year - the wife is really starting look closely at my new toys...

**dirknerkle** · 10-16-2009, 12:01 PM

Originally Posted by rokkett

Some things to consider that I am now tackling:

If all of your ports a located in one location - you will have to pull electrical back to the controller.

If you have them spread out, multiple "area" controllers would be electrically simpler. Just a single communication line to each area rather than many electrical lines fanning out from a central controller.

Probably just the one controller this year - the wife is really starting look closely at my new toys...

Yep, you're hooked.

As you string cables here and there, remember to use GCFI outlets or at least GCFI protection on your circuits. There are many threads here at DIYC about GCFI and reading them ought to be a requirement for getting into this hobby.

Electricity is very, very fast... and it's generally non-selective on what beings it affects if given the chance. Unfortunately, in the realm of Christmas lighting, the electrical voltages and currents involved can be lethal.

A MERRY Christmas is also a SAFE Christmas!!!

**g2ktcf** · 10-16-2009, 12:02 PM

Originally Posted by olingerjccj

I know I am super late but the animated bug has totally got me. 8 more channels would give me a bit more flexablity, but a bit more to sequence.

John

actually "more to sequence" is a help here at these numbers. its easier o sequence 24 channels as you have options. When you get beyond a 100 channels is when the sequencing gets really tough.

and it seems you have the C.L.A.P. already D:

**budude** · 10-16-2009, 01:48 PM

I'm not super familiar with the RenSS line - - but is there any issue with partially populating the board? In other words, buy a 24 but only populate 8 or 16 channels to save costs? I would think that might be OK but can't say for sure. This would set you up for next year ('cuz you WILL be adding more channels...) and you would just need to buy additional parts for it.

**Wayne J** · 10-16-2009, 01:57 PM

Originally Posted by budude

I'm not super familiar with the RenSS line - - but is there any issue with partially populating the board? In other words, buy a 24 but only populate 8 or 16 channels to save costs? I would think that might be OK but can't say for sure. This would set you up for next year ('cuz you WILL be adding more channels...) and you would just need to buy additional parts for it.

You could, but I highly recommend against it. One would be asking for trouble IMO. You do a partial board, put it out for the season, moisture finds it's way to the board, empty pads get a oxidation layer on them, then when new components are to be placed, soldering just got more difficult for those who are new to soldering. I just think that is a bad idea personally. Fully populated and tested 100% is best bet. ;)

(Again, just my opinion

)