How to Use Keyestudio KS0064 - Matrix LED 8x8 I2C (HT16K33): Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Keyestudio KS0064 is an 8x8 LED matrix display module powered by the HT16K33 driver chip. This module communicates via the I2C protocol, making it easy to integrate into microcontroller-based projects. It allows users to control individual LEDs to display patterns, text, and simple graphics. The compact design and efficient communication make it ideal for applications such as digital clocks, scrolling text displays, and visual indicators.

• Digital clocks and timers
• Scrolling text displays
• Visual indicators for IoT devices
• Educational projects and prototyping
• Simple animations and graphics

The Keyestudio KS0064 module has a 4-pin interface for I2C communication and power.

1. Wiring: Connect the module to the Arduino UNO as follows:

   • VCC to the Arduino 5V pin.
   • GND to the Arduino GND pin.
   • SDA to the Arduino A4 pin (I2C data line).
   • SCL to the Arduino A5 pin (I2C clock line).

2. Install Required Libraries:

   • Download and install the Adafruit GFX and Adafruit LED Backpack libraries from the Arduino Library Manager.

3. Arduino Code Example: The following code demonstrates how to display a simple pattern on the LED matrix.

   // Include necessary libraries
   #include <Wire.h>
   #include <Adafruit_GFX.h>
   #include <Adafruit_LEDBackpack.h>
   
   // Create an instance of the LED matrix
   Adafruit_8x8matrix matrix = Adafruit_8x8matrix();
   
   void setup() {
     // Initialize the matrix
     matrix.begin(0x70); // Default I2C address for HT16K33
     matrix.clear();     // Clear the display
     matrix.writeDisplay();
   }
   
   void loop() {
     // Display a simple pattern (diagonal line)
     matrix.clear(); // Clear the display buffer
     for (int i = 0; i < 8; i++) {
       matrix.drawPixel(i, i, LED_ON); // Turn on diagonal LEDs
     }
     matrix.writeDisplay(); // Update the display
     delay(1000);           // Wait for 1 second
   
     // Clear the display and wait
     matrix.clear();
     matrix.writeDisplay();
     delay(1000);
   }
   

• Power Supply: Ensure the module is powered with a stable 5V DC source.
• I2C Address: The default I2C address is 0x70. If multiple devices are used, ensure each has a unique address by configuring the address pins on the HT16K33.
• Brightness Control: The brightness of the LEDs can be adjusted programmatically using the setBrightness() function in the Adafruit LED Backpack library.

1. No Display Output:

   • Verify the wiring connections, especially the SDA and SCL lines.
   • Ensure the correct I2C address (0x70) is used in the code.
   • Check if the required libraries are installed and included in the code.

2. Flickering LEDs:

   • Ensure the power supply provides sufficient current for the module.
   • Avoid using long or thin wires for power connections to minimize voltage drops.

3. Incorrect Patterns or Text:

   • Verify the code logic for drawing patterns or text.
   • Ensure the matrix is initialized correctly in the setup() function.

Q: Can I use this module with microcontrollers other than Arduino?
A: Yes, the KS0064 can be used with any microcontroller that supports I2C communication, such as Raspberry Pi, ESP32, or STM32.

Q: How do I change the I2C address of the module?
A: The HT16K33 driver allows address configuration using the address pins (A0, A1, A2). Refer to the HT16K33 datasheet for details on setting a new address.

Q: Can I display scrolling text on the matrix?
A: Yes, the Adafruit GFX library provides functions for displaying and scrolling text. Refer to the library documentation for examples.

Q: What is the maximum brightness level?
A: The HT16K33 supports 16 levels of brightness, which can be adjusted using the setBrightness() function.