Datasheet
Can NeoPixels be powered directly from the Arduino’s 5V pin?
When using a DC power supply, or an especially large battery, we recommend adding a large capacitor
(1000 µF, 6.3V or higher) across the + and – terminals. This prevents the initial onrush of current from
damaging the pixels. See the photo on the next page for an example.
With through-hole NeoPixels (5mm or 8mm), add a 0.1 µF capacitor between the + and – pins of EACH PIXEL.
Individual pixels may misbehave without this “decoupling cap.”
Adding a ~470 ohm resistor between your microcontroller's data pin and the data input on the NeoPixels can
help prevent spikes on the data line that can damage your first pixel. Please add one between your micro
and NeoPixels! Our NeoPixel rings already have this resistor on there
© Adafruit Industries https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-neopixel-uberguide Page 12 of 100