Unicorn HAT HD
PIM273
We've stepped up our LED game! Unicorn HAT HD crams 256 RGB LEDs, in a 16x16 matrix,
onto a single HAT. High-definition rainbow goodness!
You can still use it for all of the same things as the regular Unicorn HAT, but with 4 times as
many pixels it makes much more complex animations possible, including scrolling text, and even
low resolution videos.
The bundled ninja diffuser makes the pixels look extra-shiny by providing some subtle diffusion,
blurring the lines between each pixel. Simply use four of the nuts to space the diffuser slightly
away from the HAT, and the other four to secure it.
Features
256 RGB LED pixels in a 16x16 matrix
Pixels driven by ARM STM32F and three STP16CPC26 LED drivers
Bundled ninja diffuser, plus nuts and bolts
Unicorn HAT HD pinout
https://pinout.xyz/pinout/unicorn_hat_hd#
Compatible with Raspberry Pi 3, 2, B+, A+, Zero, and Zero W
Python library
https://github.com/pimoroni/unicorn‐hat‐hd
Comes fully assembled
The ARM chip on Unicorn HAT HD does all of the heavy lifting, meaning that you can just
bung data to it and it'll take care of the rest. It acts as the man-in-the-middle between your Pi and
the three STP16CPC26 LED drivers that actually drive the LEDs.
Software
Our Python library will have your Unicorn HAT HD pooping out high-definition rainbows in a
jiffy. There's a stack of examples too, to show you how to create slick animations, simulate the
Game of Life, a forest fire or a flickering candle, and even scroll text!
Notes
Photo‐sensitivity warning: flashing, strobing, and patterns of lights may cause epileptic seizures.
Always take care and immediately stop using if you feel unwell (dizziness, nausea, affected
vision, eye twitching, disorientation).
Power: Unicorn HAT HD requires a >2A microUSB power supply for your Pi. We recommend the
official Raspberry Pi power supply.
https://shop.pimoroni.com/products/unicorn‐hat‐hd 6/27/2017
