Pixel Megatrees

A pixel megatree is just a normal megatree but fashioned using pixel strings or pixel strips instead of strings of normal LED or incandescent lights. Because pixels provide the ability to control each individual light's color (instead of each string as in a basic megatree) pixel megatrees allow for the display of patterns, animations, text, pictures, and even full-motion video.

The same considerations for height and width apply to pixel megatrees as they do to basic megatrees in that the lengths of the materials you choose to use will help determine the general shape, height and width of the tree. Pixel strings and pixel strips are available from many vendors and costs vary widely. Pixel strings are generally the most popular choice for outdoor megatrees because they are durable, flexible, and easy to repair. Pixel strips can provide higher pixel density but often require additional support and protection from mechanical stress.

A major issue for pixel strings is that they are much bulkier and heavier, which puts significant stress on the wiring between each pixel as the pixel string length increases. An issue for pixel strips is that they're a bit more fragile and don't bend very well -- a different stress problem. Stress can cause electrical connection problems which usually results in a failed display. To combat this problem, DIY'ers use additional support materials such as zip-tieing the pixel strings to guy wires or paracord or using pixel mounting strips that hold the pixels firmly and eliminate the stress on the pixel string's wiring. Pixel strips can be zip-tied to pixel mounting strips for support, too. But because of the added weight, pixel megatrees often require much heavier hardware in their construction.

Search for "pixel mounting strips" and you'll find many suppliers. Two well-known sources are Boscoyo Studios and HolidayCoro. Both of these companies provide a great many additional DIY products and have been solid supporters of Christmas lighting DIY'ers for many years.

Because of the added complexity of using pixels, pixel megatrees are controlled by pixel controllers and often powered using multiple external DC power supplies, and sequenced using software tools designed for controlling the many thousands of equivalent "channels" that pixel displays require. Software such as xLights and Vixen 3 are popular sequencing packages for pixel displays and can also control many traditional lighting technologies.

A pixel megatree can be dazzling to watch, but it is not for the faint-of-heart. Compared to a normal, basic megatree, a pixel megatree is much more expensive to build, more problematic to erect and power, sometimes more challenging to sequence and more difficult to store and maintain. While a pixel megatree requires more planning, wiring, and sequencing than a traditional megatree, it is also one of the most rewarding projects in the hobby. Many DIY'ers choose it as the centerpiece of their display.

Many modern pixel megatrees are designed using commercially available pixel mounting strips, making annual setup faster and helping maintain consistent pixel spacing.