For a drone stage lighting project in Germany, iPixel supplied the P032001MA4SD6 RGBW digital LED module to combine high-output color effects and a dedicated white channel in a compact 35 x 25 mm format. Each DC5V, 4W module operates as one SPI-controlled pixel through the SM16714 IC and includes an aluminum PCB and two M3 mounting holes for secure installation.
The application required programmable RGB effects, a clean white output, stable mechanical mounting and a defined thermal path. The P032 module met these requirements while keeping the lighting point compact and individually controllable.
Drone Lighting Project Requirements
Drone-mounted lighting places several requirements on a compact LED module. The light point must remain visible at distance, respond quickly to programmed effects and stay securely installed while the aircraft is moving. The electrical and thermal design must also account for the rated load of every module in the system.
· High light output from a compact module
· Full-color RGB effects plus a dedicated white channel
· Individual control of every light point
· Reliable signal input and output for multi-module connection
· Mechanical mounting suitable for movement and vibration
· External heat dissipation for continuous full-brightness operation
Why the P032 RGBW SPI Module Was Selected
The P032001MA4SD6 combines one RGBW LED, one independently controlled pixel and an SM16714 control IC on a 35 x 25 mm aluminum PCB. The module operates at DC5V with a rated power of 4W and weighs approximately 10 g. Its 140-degree beam angle helps the light remain visible from a wide range of viewing directions.
Two M3 mounting holes allow the PCB to be fastened to the customer's structure. The aluminum PCB supports heat transfer, but it does not replace the external heat-dissipation plate required for full-power operation.
RGBW Output with Three White CCT Options
The module combines red, green and blue channels with a dedicated white channel. RGB channels generate dynamic color effects, while the white channel provides a cleaner white output than an RGB-only module can produce through color mixing.
The dedicated white channel is available in three separate factory-configured versions: 3000K warm white, 4000K neutral white or 6000K cool white. One module contains one selected white CCT; this is not a tunable-white product.
Independent SPI Pixel Control
Each P032 module functions as one independently controllable pixel. The onboard SM16714 IC receives the signal through the data input connection and passes it to the next module through the data output connection. This allows multiple modules to be connected in sequence while retaining individual control of every lighting point.
With a compatible SPI controller, the system can create color changes, gradients, chasing effects, flashing sequences and synchronized patterns. If the project uses DMX, a DMX-to-SPI decoder that supports the SM16714 protocol is required. Data input and data output must not be reversed during wiring.
Drone Lighting Demonstration
The video below demonstrates multiple P032 RGBW modules operating as individually controlled light points in a drone lighting application. It shows how the modules can produce coordinated color effects while each module remains a separate SPI pixel.
Mechanical Mounting and Thermal Design
Thermal management is essential because the module is rated at 4W in a compact format. The aluminum PCB transfers heat away from the LED and control components, but the module must still be installed on an external aluminum heat-dissipation plate.
For full-brightness operation, the external aluminum plate should provide at least 100 cm² of heat-dissipation area, and the aluminum substrate temperature should remain below 55°C. Apply thermally conductive adhesive between the module and the metal surface, then use the M3 mounting holes for secure mechanical fixation where the product structure allows.
Ordinary silicone sealant or glass glue must not be used as a substitute for a proper thermal interface material.
Outdoor Integration and IP20 Protection
The standard P032 module is rated IP20. It must not be described as a waterproof outdoor module. For drone use or other exposed installations, the customer's system must provide suitable protection against rain, condensation, dust and accidental contact.
The final integration should also protect cable exits and connectors, maintain the required heat-transfer path and prevent the protective structure from trapping excessive heat around the module.
P032 RGBW SPI LED Module Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Product | P032 RGBW Digital LED Module |
| Product number | P032001MA4SD6 |
| Input voltage | DC5V |
| Rated power | 4W per module |
| PCB dimensions | 35 x 25 mm |
| PCB thickness | 1.6 mm |
| Net weight | Approx. 10 g |
| LED quantity | 1 RGBW LED |
| Pixel quantity | 1 pixel per module |
| Control | SPI / SM16714 |
| White CCT versions | 3000K / 4000K / 6000K, one CCT per version |
| Order codes | C1: 3000K / C2: 4000K / C3: 6000K |
| Beam angle | 140° |
| CRI | Ra ≥ 80 |
| IP rating | IP20 |
| Operating temperature | -25°C to 60°C |
| PCB material | Aluminum |
| Mounting | Two M3 mounting holes |
| Wavelength | R: 620–625 nm / G: 520–525 nm / B: 460–465 nm |
Custom RGBW LED Module Support
The same engineering approach can be adapted for other OEM equipment that requires compact, high-output and programmable lighting. Depending on the project, iPixel LED can evaluate PCB dimensions, RGB or RGBW configuration, white CCT, control protocol, cable length, connectors, mounting method and system-level environmental protection.
For equipment manufacturers, the LED, control protocol, wiring, mechanical structure and thermal path should be reviewed as one system rather than selected independently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can each P032 RGBW LED module be controlled independently?
Yes. Each P032 module functions as one SPI-controlled pixel with data input and data output connections. A compatible controller can address every module individually within the connected system.
Can one module change between 3000K, 4000K and 6000K white?
No. These are separate factory-configured white-channel options. Each module contains one selected white CCT.
Does the P032 module require an external heat sink?
Yes. For full-brightness operation, install the module on an external aluminum heat-dissipation plate with at least 100 cm² of area and keep the aluminum substrate temperature below 55°C.
Is the P032 module waterproof?
No. The standard module is rated IP20. Outdoor or exposed use requires a suitable enclosure and system-level environmental protection.
Discuss a Custom RGBW Pixel Module
Share your installation space, voltage, control method, wiring, connector, environmental protection and target quantity. Our engineering team will evaluate the LED module, mounting method and thermal design for your application.