[dorkbotpdx-blabber] another LED array question

[Mykle Hansen]

hi all,

i'm sizing up a project for LIGHTBAR that involves an array
of 40 RGB LEDs, each of which i want to control in complete
gradations of brightness, and i want them to be arrayed
on an 8x5 matrix inscribed on a sphere, approximately.
so that's 120 variable-brightness or PWM pins i need to
be able to control.

i'm considering using blinkMs, since the wiring and programming
would both be significantly simpler.  but the cost goes through
the roof if i do that. (i'm asking thingM to give me the blinkMs
for free, but that trick almost never works.  =)

is there something like an analog shift register that i can
interface to a dorkboard, that will let me set these 120 different
pin voltages individually, rapidly, easily?  is there some
clever textbook solution to such a problem that i should know about?

and will i ever figure out anything myself, or will i just keep
bothering all of you busy people?

seasons blinkings,
-m-
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