LED Cube/PCB Soldering Manual

A full schematic of the PCB can be downloaded here: Datei:Cube.pdf.

USB Resistors

First we solder R10, R11, R13, Z1 and Z2. As all resistors we are using in this project, their orientation is not relevant. You can see the resistor values in the schematic or in the table below, together with the color code marking:

Name	Value	Color Code
R10	68 Ohm	(blue-green-black-gold-brown)
R11	68 Ohm	(blue-green-black-gold-brown)
R13	1500 Ohm	(brown-green-black-brown-brown)

USB Zener Diodes

Additionally, we need two 3.6 V Zener diodes for the data lines, Z1 and Z2. Here, you have to pay attention to their orientation. The (black) line on the diode is the same as the single line on the symbol (as opposed to the triangle) that is printed onto the PCB. You can see that in the figure on the left.

Reset Resistor

The Reset pin gets a 10 kOhm resistor R12 to the 5 V line. Again, have a look in the table for the correct color markings. Orientation is irrelevant.

Name	Value	Color Code
R12	10 kOhm	(brown-black-black-red-brown)

Column Resistors

If you bought a kit or attend a workshop, you probably already got the correct Resistors. There should be (at least) nine of the same value. Just solder them into the places for R1 to R9.

If you are supplying your own LEDs or did not get matching resistors for any other reason, you have to pay attention: The ideal column resistors should be chosen for each LED color separately. You are always on the safe side, if you choose a high value, but then your cube may not be as bright as you want it to be. If you are interested in this, read LED Cube/Column Resistors in Detail. Alternatively, here is a table of common colors, their forward voltages and the recommended resistor value:

Color	Forward Voltage	Resistor Value	Color Code
Red	1.9 V	?	Datei:R-?.jpeg (?-?-?-?-?)

Column and Plane Connectors

Now add the column and plane connectors to CONN1 to CONN10.

Capacitors

We need four capacitors, two times 100 nF (C1, C2) and two times 22 pF (C3, C4). See the schematic at the left or the table below for their values and positions. Again, all four devices are symmetric and orientation is irrelevant.

Name	Value	Marking
C1	100 nF	104
C2	100 nF	104
C3	22 pF	220
C4	22 pF	220

Crystal

Now you should add the 16 MHz crystal U3. You do not have to care about its orientation.

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  16 MHz Crystal

Transistor Array

Now add the transistor array U2. Pay attention to the orientation! There is a marker in the package that can also be seen on the PCB.

Microcontroller socket

Add the microcontroller socket to the PCB at U1. As with the Transistor array, there is a small marker on the package which should be on the same side as the marker on the PCB.

USB Socket

Now add the USB socket. This should be straightforward. You should solder the two big shield connectors on the side, not just plug them in, to increase the stability.

Bootloader Jumper

Now we need the bootloader Jumper CONN12.