Add multi-panel Pico UDP firmware and Python LED control.

Pico panels get static IPs on 10.1.1.10–14 with per-panel LED counts, Makefile deploy targets, and Python examples for animations, sync tests, and direct Pi SPI control. Co-authored-by: Cursor <cursoragent@cursor.com>
2026-06-28 22:46:08 +12:00
parent d8323bb9a3
commit d5cab2efdf
52 changed files with 4677 additions and 1 deletions
--- a/.gitignore
+++ b/.gitignore
@@ -0,0 +1,7 @@
+.venv/
+__pycache__/
+*.py[cod]
+*.egg-info/
+.pytest_cache/
+firmware/panel/build/
+firmware/_deps/
--- a/26
+++ b/26
@@ -0,0 +1,26 @@
+# Portal — convenience targets for panel firmware
+#
+#   make deploy   Build and flash panel firmware over USB
+#   make build    Build only
+
+.PHONY: build deploy flash upload monitor clean help
+
+_PANEL_MAKE_FLAGS :=
+ifdef PANEL_ID
+_PANEL_MAKE_FLAGS += PANEL_ID=$(PANEL_ID)
+endif
+ifdef NO_DHCP
+_PANEL_MAKE_FLAGS += NO_DHCP=$(NO_DHCP)
+endif
+ifdef NUM_LEDS
+_PANEL_MAKE_FLAGS += NUM_LEDS=$(NUM_LEDS)
+endif
+ifdef WS2812_PIN
+_PANEL_MAKE_FLAGS += WS2812_PIN=$(WS2812_PIN)
+endif
+
+help:
+	@$(MAKE) -C firmware/panel help
+
+build deploy flash upload monitor clean:
+	@$(MAKE) -C firmware/panel $(MAKECMDGOALS) $(_PANEL_MAKE_FLAGS)
--- a/12
+++ b/12
@@ -0,0 +1,12 @@
+[[source]]
+url = "https://pypi.org/simple"
+verify_ssl = true
+name = "pypi"
+
+[packages]
+portal = {editable = true, path = "."}
+
+[dev-packages]
+
+[requires]
+python_version = "3.13"
--- a/Pipfile.lock
+++ b/Pipfile.lock
@@ -0,0 +1,39 @@
+{
+    "_meta": {
+        "hash": {
+            "sha256": "2d6705b77e526b8f5f55e85b57b98d5e5249097e4d02415229aabbd0744e0fa1"
+        },
+        "pipfile-spec": 6,
+        "requires": {
+            "python_version": "3.13"
+        },
+        "sources": [
+            {
+                "name": "pypi",
+                "url": "https://pypi.org/simple",
+                "verify_ssl": true
+            }
+        ]
+    },
+    "default": {
+        "portal": {
+            "editable": true,
+            "path": "."
+        },
+        "rpi-ws281x": {
+            "hashes": [
+                "sha256:00ce6db771436b778d0930245cf8ea2aae11008cc5fd67d57789c5422af3ee55"
+            ],
+            "markers": "python_version >= '3.6'",
+            "version": "==5.0.0"
+        },
+        "spidev": {
+            "hashes": [
+                "sha256:07d0da112ca944df41f080811bb123b910df63bb38b66712289bc4fd9d682185",
+                "sha256:2bc02fb8c6312d519ebf1f4331067427c0921d3f77b8bcaf05189a2e8b8382c0"
+            ],
+            "version": "==3.8"
+        }
+    },
+    "develop": {}
+}
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -1,2 +1,66 @@
 # portal

+WS2812 LED control for Raspberry Pi 5 and Pico panel adapters.
+
+## Panel IPs
+
+Five panels on `10.1.1.10`–`10.1.1.14` (panel 0 → `.10`, panel 4 → `.14`). Examples drive **all 5** by default.
+
+## Panel sizes
+
+Panels are **9 rows** tall; width varies by panel. Edit `PANEL_WIDTH_BY_INDEX` in `leds/array_config.py`:
+
+| Panel | IP | Size | LEDs | Flash |
+|-------|-----|------|------|-------|
+| 0 | 10.1.1.10 | 9×39 | 351 | `make deploy PANEL_ID=0 NUM_LEDS=351` |
+| 1 | 10.1.1.11 | 9×45 | 405 | `make deploy PANEL_ID=1 NUM_LEDS=405` |
+| 2 | 10.1.1.12 | 9×45 | 405 | `make deploy PANEL_ID=2 NUM_LEDS=405` |
+| 3 | 10.1.1.13 | 9×45 | 405 | `make deploy PANEL_ID=3 NUM_LEDS=405` |
+| 4 | 10.1.1.14 | 9×39? | 351 | `make deploy PANEL_ID=4 NUM_LEDS=351` |
+
+Panel 4 may be **38 or 39** wide — find the exact width:
+
+```bash
+make deploy PANEL_ID=4 NUM_LEDS=387   # 43 cols max for probe
+pipenv run python examples/panel_sync_test.py --test width --panel-index 4
+```
+
+Last column that lights → set `PANEL_WIDTH_BY_INDEX[4]` in `leds/array_config.py` to **column + 1**, then re-flash with `NUM_LEDS=width×9` (342 for 38, 351 for 39).
+
+Animations render at each panel's own width automatically.
+
+## Examples
+
+### Pico panel (UDP)
+
+| Command | What it does |
+|---------|----------------|
+| `pipenv run python examples/panel_rgb_cycle.py` | Red / green / blue on all 5 panels |
+| `pipenv run python examples/panel_color_test.py` | One-shot RGB + white test |
+| `pipenv run python examples/panel_test.py` | Layout tests (corners, rows, chase) |
+| `pipenv run python examples/panel_sync_test.py` | Positioning + sync across all panels |
+| `pipenv run python examples/panel_animations.py` | All animations on all panels |
+| `pipenv run python examples/panel_animations.py rolling` | One animation |
+| `pipenv run python examples/panel_text.py` | Show your name |
+| `pipenv run python examples/animations.py --panel` | Same as panel_animations |
+
+Single panel only:
+
+```bash
+pipenv run python examples/panel_animations.py --panel-index 1   # 9×45 @ 10.1.1.11
+```
+
+### Pi direct (SPI on GPIO 10)
+
+| Command | What it does |
+|---------|----------------|
+| `pipenv run python examples/animations.py` | All animations on matrix |
+| `pipenv run python examples/matrix_demo.py` | Rainbow only |
+| `pipenv run python examples/led_demo.py` | Dual-strip chase + rainbow |
+
+### Firmware
+
+```bash
+make deploy PANEL_ID=0 NUM_LEDS=351
+make monitor
+```
--- a/adapter/code.py
+++ b/adapter/code.py
@@ -12,7 +12,7 @@ SPI1_RX = board.GP12
 SPI1_CSn = board.GP9
 W5500_RSTn = board.GP13

-pixel_pin = board.GP28
+pixel_pin = board.GP27
 num_pixels = 2

 print("Wiznet5k SimpleServer Test (DHCP)")
--- a/examples/animations.py
+++ b/examples/animations.py
@@ -0,0 +1,170 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Run LED matrix animations locally (SPI/PIO) or on Pico panel (UDP)."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import argparse
+import os
+import sys
+import time
+
+from leds import LedMatrix, LedStrip
+from leds.animations import ANIMATIONS, DEFAULT_FPS
+from leds.array_config import (
+    MATRIX_BRIGHTNESS,
+    MATRIX_HEIGHT,
+    MATRIX_SPI_BUS,
+    MATRIX_SPI_DEVICE,
+    MATRIX_WIDTH,
+)
+from leds.config import spi_strip_config
+from leds.panel_udp import (
+    add_panel_network_args,
+    animation_playlist,
+    format_panel_targets,
+    panel_targets_from_args,
+    run_panel_animation_loop,
+    run_panel_playlist,
+)
+
+
+def _flash_test(surface, brightness: float) -> None:
+    for color in ((255, 0, 0), (0, 255, 0), (0, 0, 255)):
+        surface.fill(color)
+        surface.show()
+        time.sleep(0.35)
+    surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+    surface.show()
+
+
+def _run_local_playlist(surface, playlist: list[str], args: argparse.Namespace) -> None:
+    while True:
+        for name in playlist:
+            draw = ANIMATIONS[name]
+            fps = args.fps or DEFAULT_FPS.get(name, 30)
+            delay = 1.0 / fps
+            frames = max(int(args.duration * fps), 1)
+            print(f"  {name} ({fps:.0f} fps)")
+            for frame in range(frames):
+                draw(surface, frame)
+                surface.show()
+                time.sleep(delay)
+
+
+def main() -> int:
+    names = list(ANIMATIONS.keys())
+    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="LED matrix animations")
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "animation",
+        nargs="?",
+        choices=names + ["all"],
+        default="all",
+    )
+    parser.add_argument("--width", type=int, default=MATRIX_WIDTH)
+    parser.add_argument("--height", type=int, default=MATRIX_HEIGHT)
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--spi-bus",
+        type=int,
+        default=int(os.environ.get("PORTAL_SPI_BUS", MATRIX_SPI_BUS)),
+    )
+    parser.add_argument("--spi-device", type=int, default=MATRIX_SPI_DEVICE)
+    parser.add_argument("--brightness", type=float, default=MATRIX_BRIGHTNESS)
+    parser.add_argument("--duration", type=float, default=12.0)
+    parser.add_argument("--fps", type=float, default=None)
+    parser.add_argument("--linear", action="store_true")
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--serpentine",
+        action="store_true",
+        help="zigzag odd rows (default: all rows left → right)",
+    )
+    parser.add_argument("--no-test", action="store_true")
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--panel",
+        action="store_true",
+        help="send to Pico panel(s) over UDP instead of local SPI/PIO",
+    )
+    add_panel_network_args(parser)
+    parser.add_argument("--once", action="store_true", help="panel: play playlist once")
+    args = parser.parse_args()
+
+    playlist = animation_playlist(args.animation)
+
+    if args.panel:
+        targets = panel_targets_from_args(args)
+        print(f"Panel animations -> {format_panel_targets(targets, args.port)}")
+        print(f"Playlist: {', '.join(playlist)}")
+        try:
+            if len(playlist) == 1 and args.animation != "all":
+                run_panel_animation_loop(
+                    targets,
+                    args.port,
+                    playlist[0],
+                    fps=args.fps,
+                    brightness=args.brightness,
+                    panel_id=args.panel_id,
+                )
+            else:
+                run_panel_playlist(
+                    targets,
+                    args.port,
+                    playlist,
+                    duration=args.duration,
+                    fps_override=args.fps,
+                    brightness=args.brightness,
+                    panel_id=args.panel_id,
+                    loop=not args.once,
+                )
+        except KeyboardInterrupt:
+            print("\nStopped.")
+        except OSError as exc:
+            print(f"Network error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+            return 1
+        return 0
+
+    count = args.width * args.height
+    serpentine = "rows" if args.serpentine else "none"
+    device = f"/dev/spidev{args.spi_bus}.{args.spi_device}"
+    mode = f"linear {count}" if args.linear else f"{args.width}×{args.height}"
+    print(f"Matrix {mode} ({count} LEDs) → {device}")
+
+    strip_cfg = spi_strip_config(
+        count,
+        spi_bus=args.spi_bus,
+        spi_device=args.spi_device,
+        brightness=args.brightness,
+    )
+
+    try:
+        if args.linear:
+            with LedStrip(
+                count,
+                backend="spi",
+                spi_bus=args.spi_bus,
+                spi_device=args.spi_device,
+                brightness=args.brightness,
+            ) as surface:
+                if not args.no_test:
+                    _flash_test(surface, args.brightness)
+                _run_local_playlist(surface, playlist, args)
+        else:
+            with LedMatrix(
+                args.width,
+                args.height,
+                serpentine=serpentine,
+                config0=strip_cfg,
+            ) as surface:
+                if not args.no_test:
+                    _flash_test(surface, args.brightness)
+                _run_local_playlist(surface, playlist, args)
+    except KeyboardInterrupt:
+        print("\nStopped.")
+        return 0
+    except Exception as exc:
+        print(f"Error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+        print("Try: --spi-bus 1  or  --panel --host <pico-ip>", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+    return 0
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    raise SystemExit(main())
--- a/examples/fix_spi1_config.py
+++ b/examples/fix_spi1_config.py
@@ -0,0 +1,68 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Ensure dtoverlay=spi1-3cs is under [all] for Pi 5 Model B."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import sys
+from pathlib import Path
+
+CONFIG = Path("/boot/firmware/config.txt")
+OVERLAY = "dtoverlay=spi1-3cs"
+
+
+def main() -> int:
+    if not CONFIG.exists():
+        print(f"Error: {CONFIG} not found", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+
+    lines = CONFIG.read_text().splitlines()
+    out: list[str] = []
+    in_cm5 = False
+    has_overlay = False
+    inserted = False
+
+    for line in lines:
+        stripped = line.strip()
+        if stripped == "[cm5]":
+            in_cm5 = True
+        elif stripped.startswith("[") and stripped.endswith("]"):
+            if in_cm5 and not inserted and not has_overlay:
+                out.append(OVERLAY)
+                inserted = True
+            in_cm5 = False
+
+        if stripped == "dtparam=spi1=on":
+            continue
+        if stripped == OVERLAY:
+            has_overlay = True
+            if in_cm5:
+                continue
+            out.append(line)
+            continue
+        out.append(line)
+
+    if not has_overlay and not inserted:
+        if out and out[-1].strip():
+            out.append("")
+        out.append(OVERLAY)
+
+    new_text = "\n".join(out) + "\n"
+    if new_text == CONFIG.read_text():
+        print("config.txt already correct.")
+    else:
+        CONFIG.write_text(new_text)
+        print("Updated /boot/firmware/config.txt:")
+        print(f"  - removed dtparam=spi1=on (ignored on Pi 5)")
+        print(f"  - moved {OVERLAY} out of [cm5] into [all]")
+        print("Reboot for the change to take effect on boot.")
+
+    print(
+        "\nWiring:\n"
+        "  strip 0 DIN → GPIO 10 (SPI0 MOSI)  /dev/spidev0.0\n"
+        "  strip 1 DIN → GPIO 20 (SPI1 MOSI)  /dev/spidev1.0"
+    )
+    return 0
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    raise SystemExit(main())
--- a/examples/led_demo.py
+++ b/examples/led_demo.py
@@ -0,0 +1,99 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Two strips showing different patterns at the same time."""
+
+import argparse
+import sys
+import time
+
+from leds import LedStrips, board_family, board_model, default_dual_strip_configs, pi5_setup_hint
+
+
+def _describe(cfg) -> str:
+    if cfg.backend == "pio":
+        return f"GPIO {cfg.pin} → {cfg.device}"
+    if cfg.backend == "ws281x":
+        return f"GPIO {cfg.pin} (channel {cfg.channel})"
+    return f"/dev/spidev{cfg.spi_bus}.{cfg.spi_device}"
+
+
+def _wheel(pos: int) -> tuple[int, int, int]:
+    pos = pos % 256
+    if pos < 85:
+        return (255 - pos * 3, pos * 3, 0)
+    if pos < 170:
+        pos -= 85
+        return (0, 255 - pos * 3, pos * 3)
+    pos -= 170
+    return (pos * 3, 0, 255 - pos * 3)
+
+
+def chase(strip, color: tuple[int, int, int], step: int) -> None:
+    count = len(strip)
+    strip.fill((0, 0, 0))
+    strip[step % count] = color
+
+
+def rainbow(strip, offset: int) -> None:
+    for i in range(len(strip)):
+        strip[i] = _wheel(offset + i * 256 // max(len(strip), 1))
+
+
+def main() -> int:
+    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="WS2812 dual-strip demo")
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "-n",
+        "--count",
+        type=int,
+        nargs=2,
+        default=[200, 200],
+        metavar=("STRIP0", "STRIP1"),
+        help="LED count per strip (default: 10 10)",
+    )
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--brightness",
+        type=float,
+        default=0.25,
+        help="brightness 0.0-1.0 (default: 0.25)",
+    )
+    args = parser.parse_args()
+
+    print(f"Board: {board_model()}")
+    cfg0, cfg1 = default_dual_strip_configs(
+        args.count[0], args.count[1], brightness=args.brightness
+    )
+    print(f"Strip 0: {cfg0.backend} → {_describe(cfg0)}  (red chase)")
+    print(f"Strip 1: {cfg1.backend} → {_describe(cfg1)}  (rainbow)")
+
+    step = 0
+    try:
+        with LedStrips(args.count[0], args.count[1], brightness=args.brightness) as strips:
+            while True:
+                # strip 0: red dot chasing along the strip
+                chase(strips[0], (255, 0, 0), step)
+
+                # strip 1: rainbow scroll — completely independent
+                rainbow(strips[1], step * 4)
+
+                strips.show()
+                step += 1
+                time.sleep(0.05)
+    except KeyboardInterrupt:
+        print("\nStopped.")
+        return 0
+    except FileNotFoundError as exc:
+        print(f"Error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+        if board_family() == "pi5":
+            print("\n" + pi5_setup_hint(args.count[0], args.count[1]), file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+    except OSError as exc:
+        print(f"Error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+        if board_family() == "pi5" and "No such file" in str(exc):
+            print("\n" + pi5_setup_hint(args.count[0], args.count[1]), file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+    except Exception as exc:
+        print(f"Error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    raise SystemExit(main())
--- a/examples/matrix_demo.py
+++ b/examples/matrix_demo.py
@@ -0,0 +1,79 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Rainbow scroll on the LED matrix (local SPI or Pico panel)."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import argparse
+import os
+import sys
+import time
+
+from leds import ANIMATIONS, LedMatrix
+from leds.array_config import MATRIX_BRIGHTNESS, MATRIX_HEIGHT, MATRIX_SPI_BUS, MATRIX_SPI_DEVICE, MATRIX_WIDTH
+from leds.config import spi_strip_config
+from leds.panel_udp import (
+    add_panel_network_args,
+    format_panel_targets,
+    panel_targets_from_args,
+    run_panel_animation_loop,
+)
+
+
+def main() -> int:
+    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="LED matrix rainbow demo")
+    parser.add_argument("--brightness", type=float, default=MATRIX_BRIGHTNESS)
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--spi-bus",
+        type=int,
+        default=int(os.environ.get("PORTAL_SPI_BUS", MATRIX_SPI_BUS)),
+    )
+    parser.add_argument("--spi-device", type=int, default=MATRIX_SPI_DEVICE)
+    parser.add_argument("--panel", action="store_true", help="send to Pico panel(s) over UDP")
+    add_panel_network_args(parser)
+    args = parser.parse_args()
+
+    print(f"Matrix: {MATRIX_WIDTH}×{MATRIX_HEIGHT} ({MATRIX_WIDTH * MATRIX_HEIGHT} LEDs)")
+
+    if args.panel:
+        targets = panel_targets_from_args(args)
+        try:
+            run_panel_animation_loop(
+                targets,
+                args.port,
+                "rainbow",
+                brightness=args.brightness,
+            )
+        except KeyboardInterrupt:
+            print("\nStopped.")
+        except OSError as exc:
+            print(f"Network error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+            return 1
+        return 0
+
+    draw = ANIMATIONS["rainbow"]
+    cfg = spi_strip_config(
+        MATRIX_WIDTH * MATRIX_HEIGHT,
+        spi_bus=args.spi_bus,
+        spi_device=args.spi_device,
+        brightness=args.brightness,
+    )
+
+    try:
+        with LedMatrix(config0=cfg) as matrix:
+            frame = 0
+            while True:
+                draw(matrix, frame)
+                matrix.show()
+                frame += 1
+                time.sleep(1 / 30)
+    except KeyboardInterrupt:
+        print("\nStopped.")
+        return 0
+    except Exception as exc:
+        print(f"Error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+        print("Try: --panel --host <pico-ip>", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    raise SystemExit(main())
--- a/examples/panel_animations.py
+++ b/examples/panel_animations.py
@@ -0,0 +1,71 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Run LED matrix animations on Pico panel(s) over UDP."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import argparse
+import sys
+
+from leds.panel_udp import (
+    add_panel_args,
+    animation_playlist,
+    format_panel_targets,
+    panel_targets_from_args,
+    run_panel_animation_loop,
+    run_panel_playlist,
+)
+
+
+def main() -> int:
+    from leds.animations import ANIMATIONS
+
+    names = list(ANIMATIONS.keys())
+    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="Animations for Pico panel(s) over UDP")
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "animation",
+        nargs="?",
+        choices=names + ["all"],
+        default="all",
+    )
+    add_panel_args(parser)
+    parser.add_argument("--duration", type=float, default=12.0)
+    parser.add_argument("--fps", type=float, default=None)
+    parser.add_argument("--once", action="store_true")
+    args = parser.parse_args()
+
+    targets = panel_targets_from_args(args)
+    playlist = animation_playlist(args.animation)
+    print(f"Panel animations -> {format_panel_targets(targets, args.port)}")
+    print(f"Playlist: {', '.join(playlist)}")
+
+    try:
+        if len(playlist) == 1 and args.animation != "all":
+            run_panel_animation_loop(
+                targets,
+                args.port,
+                playlist[0],
+                fps=args.fps,
+                brightness=args.brightness,
+                panel_id=args.panel_id,
+            )
+        else:
+            run_panel_playlist(
+                targets,
+                args.port,
+                playlist,
+                duration=args.duration,
+                fps_override=args.fps,
+                brightness=args.brightness,
+                panel_id=args.panel_id,
+                loop=not args.once,
+            )
+    except KeyboardInterrupt:
+        print("\nStopped.")
+    except OSError as exc:
+        print(f"Network error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+    return 0
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    raise SystemExit(main())
--- a/examples/panel_color_test.py
+++ b/examples/panel_color_test.py
@@ -0,0 +1,54 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Full-panel R / G / B flash for Pico panel(s)."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import argparse
+import socket
+import sys
+import time
+
+from leds.panel_udp import (
+    add_panel_args,
+    format_panel_targets,
+    panel_targets_from_args,
+    send_solid_to_targets,
+)
+
+COLORS = (
+    ("RED", (255, 0, 0)),
+    ("GREEN", (0, 255, 0)),
+    ("BLUE", (0, 0, 255)),
+    ("WHITE", (255, 255, 255)),
+    ("OFF", (0, 0, 0)),
+)
+
+
+def main() -> int:
+    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="R/G/B color test for Pico panel(s)")
+    add_panel_args(parser)
+    parser.add_argument("--pause", type=float, default=1.5)
+    args = parser.parse_args()
+
+    targets = panel_targets_from_args(args)
+    sock = socket.socket(socket.AF_INET, socket.SOCK_DGRAM)
+    print(f"Color test -> {format_panel_targets(targets, args.port)}\n")
+
+    try:
+        for label, color in COLORS:
+            print(f"  {label}")
+            send_solid_to_targets(sock, targets, args.port, color, args.brightness, args.panel_id)
+            time.sleep(args.pause)
+    except KeyboardInterrupt:
+        print("\nStopped.")
+    except OSError as exc:
+        print(f"Network error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+    finally:
+        send_solid_to_targets(sock, targets, args.port, (0, 0, 0), 1.0, args.panel_id)
+        sock.close()
+    return 0
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    raise SystemExit(main())
--- a/examples/panel_rgb_cycle.py
+++ b/examples/panel_rgb_cycle.py
@@ -0,0 +1,44 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Cycle full-panel red / green / blue on Pico panel(s)."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import argparse
+import sys
+import time
+
+from leds.panel_udp import PanelClient, add_panel_args, format_panel_targets, panel_targets_from_args
+
+COLORS = (
+    ("RED", (255, 0, 0)),
+    ("GREEN", (0, 255, 0)),
+    ("BLUE", (0, 0, 255)),
+)
+
+
+def main() -> int:
+    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="RGB cycle on Pico panel(s)")
+    add_panel_args(parser)
+    parser.add_argument("--pause", type=float, default=1.0)
+    args = parser.parse_args()
+
+    targets = panel_targets_from_args(args)
+    print(f"RGB cycle -> {format_panel_targets(targets, args.port)} (Ctrl+C to stop)")
+
+    try:
+        with PanelClient.from_args(args) as client:
+            while True:
+                for label, color in COLORS:
+                    print(f"  {label}")
+                    client.fill(color)
+                    time.sleep(args.pause)
+    except KeyboardInterrupt:
+        print("\nStopped.")
+    except OSError as exc:
+        print(f"Network error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+    return 0
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    raise SystemExit(main())
--- a/examples/panel_sync_test.py
+++ b/examples/panel_sync_test.py
@@ -0,0 +1,361 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Positioning and sync test for multiple Pico panels.
+
+Runs a sequence of patterns on all panels (or one via --panel-index):
+  identify   - panel index digit on each board (check physical mapping)
+  corners    - red/green/blue/yellow corners (check orientation)
+  crosshair  - center row + column
+  columns    - sweep the same column index on every panel together
+  rows       - sweep rows together
+  flash      - simultaneous white flashes (check sync)
+  pulse      - in-sync brightness pulse on all panels
+  width      - sweep columns near right edge (find 38 vs 39 vs 40)
+  all        - full sequence (default)
+"""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import argparse
+import math
+import socket
+import sys
+import time
+
+from leds.panel_udp import (
+    HeadlessMatrix,
+    PanelTarget,
+    add_panel_args,
+    format_panel_targets,
+    panel_targets_from_args,
+    send_frame,
+)
+from leds.text import draw_text_centered
+
+PANEL_COLORS = (
+    (255, 80, 80),
+    (80, 255, 80),
+    (80, 160, 255),
+    (255, 200, 80),
+    (200, 80, 255),
+)
+
+CORNER_COLORS = {
+    "top-left": (255, 0, 0),
+    "top-right": (0, 255, 0),
+    "bottom-left": (0, 0, 255),
+    "bottom-right": (255, 255, 0),
+}
+
+
+def _matrices(targets: list[PanelTarget], brightness: float) -> list[tuple[PanelTarget, HeadlessMatrix]]:
+    return [(t, HeadlessMatrix(t.width, t.height, brightness=brightness)) for t in targets]
+
+
+def _push(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    targets: list[PanelTarget],
+    matrices: list[tuple[PanelTarget, HeadlessMatrix]],
+    port: int,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+) -> None:
+    """Send all panel frames in a tight burst for best sync."""
+    for target, matrix in matrices:
+        send_frame(sock, target.host, port, matrix.rgb_bytes(), panel_id)
+
+
+def _clear_all(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    targets: list[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    brightness: float,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+) -> None:
+    matrices = _matrices(targets, brightness)
+    for _, matrix in matrices:
+        matrix.clear()
+    _push(sock, targets, matrices, port, panel_id)
+
+
+def test_identify(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    targets: list[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    brightness: float,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+    pause: float,
+) -> None:
+    print("Test: identify — each panel shows its index (0–4)")
+    matrices = _matrices(targets, brightness)
+    for target, matrix in matrices:
+        matrix.clear()
+        color = PANEL_COLORS[target.index % len(PANEL_COLORS)]
+        draw_text_centered(matrix, str(target.index), color)
+        print(f"  panel {target.index} -> {target.host} ({target.width}×{target.height})")
+    _push(sock, targets, matrices, port, panel_id)
+    time.sleep(pause)
+
+
+def test_corners(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    targets: list[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    brightness: float,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+    pause: float,
+) -> None:
+    print("Test: corners — TL=red TR=green BL=blue BR=yellow (all panels)")
+    matrices = _matrices(targets, brightness)
+    for target, matrix in matrices:
+        w, h = target.width, target.height
+        matrix.clear()
+        points = {
+            "top-left": (0, 0),
+            "top-right": (w - 1, 0),
+            "bottom-left": (0, h - 1),
+            "bottom-right": (w - 1, h - 1),
+        }
+        for name, (x, y) in points.items():
+            matrix[x, y] = CORNER_COLORS[name]
+    _push(sock, targets, matrices, port, panel_id)
+    time.sleep(pause)
+
+
+def test_crosshair(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    targets: list[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    brightness: float,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+    pause: float,
+) -> None:
+    print("Test: crosshair — center row + column (white)")
+    matrices = _matrices(targets, brightness)
+    for target, matrix in matrices:
+        w, h = target.width, target.height
+        matrix.clear()
+        mid_y = h // 2
+        mid_x = w // 2
+        for x in range(w):
+            matrix[x, mid_y] = (255, 255, 255)
+        for y in range(h):
+            matrix[mid_x, y] = (200, 200, 200)
+    _push(sock, targets, matrices, port, panel_id)
+    time.sleep(pause)
+
+
+def test_columns(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    targets: list[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    brightness: float,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+    pause: float,
+) -> None:
+    max_width = max(t.width for t in targets)
+    print(f"Test: column sweep — x=0..{max_width - 1} on all panels together")
+    for x in range(max_width):
+        matrices = _matrices(targets, brightness)
+        for target, matrix in matrices:
+            matrix.clear()
+            if x >= target.width:
+                continue
+            hue = int(255 * x / max(max_width - 1, 1))
+            for y in range(target.height):
+                matrix[x, y] = (hue, 80, 255 - hue)
+        _push(sock, targets, matrices, port, panel_id)
+        time.sleep(pause)
+    _clear_all(sock, targets, port, brightness, panel_id)
+
+
+def test_rows(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    targets: list[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    brightness: float,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+    pause: float,
+) -> None:
+    height = targets[0].height if targets else 9
+    print(f"Test: row sweep — y=0..{height - 1} on all panels together")
+    for y in range(height):
+        matrices = _matrices(targets, brightness)
+        for target, matrix in matrices:
+            matrix.clear()
+            for x in range(target.width):
+                matrix[x, y] = (255, 255, 255)
+        _push(sock, targets, matrices, port, panel_id)
+        time.sleep(pause)
+    _clear_all(sock, targets, port, brightness, panel_id)
+
+
+def test_flash(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    targets: list[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    brightness: float,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+    pause: float,
+    count: int,
+) -> None:
+    print(f"Test: sync flash — {count} white flashes on all panels")
+    for n in range(count):
+        matrices = _matrices(targets, brightness)
+        for _, matrix in matrices:
+            matrix.fill((255, 255, 255))
+        _push(sock, targets, matrices, port, panel_id)
+        time.sleep(pause)
+        _clear_all(sock, targets, port, brightness, panel_id)
+        time.sleep(pause / 2)
+        print(f"  flash {n + 1}/{count}")
+
+
+def test_pulse(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    targets: list[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    brightness: float,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+    seconds: float,
+    fps: float,
+) -> None:
+    print(f"Test: sync pulse — {seconds:.0f}s solid red fade (all panels)")
+    frames = max(int(seconds * fps), 1)
+    for frame in range(frames):
+        t = frame / frames
+        level = 0.15 + 0.85 * (0.5 - 0.5 * math.cos(t * 6.28318))
+        color = (int(255 * level), 0, 0)
+        matrices = _matrices(targets, min(brightness * level, 1.0))
+        for _, matrix in matrices:
+            matrix.fill(color)
+        _push(sock, targets, matrices, port, panel_id)
+        time.sleep(1.0 / fps)
+    _clear_all(sock, targets, port, brightness, panel_id)
+
+
+def test_chain_ends(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    targets: list[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    brightness: float,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+    pause: float,
+) -> None:
+    print("Test: chain ends — LED 0=red, last LED=green (per panel)")
+    matrices = _matrices(targets, brightness)
+    for target, matrix in matrices:
+        matrix.clear()
+        matrix[0, 0] = (255, 0, 0)
+        last = target.pixels - 1
+        x = last % target.width
+        y = last // target.width
+        matrix[x, y] = (0, 255, 0)
+        print(f"  panel {target.index}: index 0 and {last} ({x},{y})")
+    _push(sock, targets, matrices, port, panel_id)
+    time.sleep(pause)
+
+
+def test_width(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    targets: list[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    brightness: float,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+    pause: float,
+    col_start: int,
+    col_end: int,
+) -> None:
+    probe_w = col_end + 1
+    probe_leds = probe_w * targets[0].height if targets else probe_w * 9
+    print("Test: width — one full column at a time (right-edge probe)")
+    print(f"  Probing columns {col_start}–{col_end} (sending {probe_w}×9 = {probe_leds} LEDs)")
+    print("  Flash firmware with at least NUM_LEDS={} first, e.g.:".format(probe_leds))
+    print(f"    make deploy PANEL_ID=<n> NUM_LEDS={probe_leds}")
+    print("  The last column that lights a real LED → width = column + 1")
+    print("  (column 37 lit → width 38; column 38 lit → width 39)\n")
+    for x in range(col_start, col_end + 1):
+        burst: list[tuple[PanelTarget, HeadlessMatrix]] = []
+        for target in targets:
+            matrix = HeadlessMatrix(probe_w, target.height, brightness=brightness)
+            matrix.clear()
+            for y in range(target.height):
+                matrix[x, y] = (255, 255, 255)
+            probe_target = PanelTarget(target.index, target.host, probe_w, target.height)
+            burst.append((probe_target, matrix))
+        for probe_target, matrix in burst:
+            send_frame(sock, probe_target.host, port, matrix.rgb_bytes(), panel_id)
+        print(f"  column {x}  → width {x + 1} if this is the last real column")
+        time.sleep(pause)
+    _clear_all(sock, targets, port, brightness, panel_id)
+
+
+TESTS = {
+    "identify": test_identify,
+    "corners": test_corners,
+    "crosshair": test_crosshair,
+    "columns": test_columns,
+    "rows": test_rows,
+    "flash": test_flash,
+    "pulse": test_pulse,
+    "ends": test_chain_ends,
+    "width": test_width,
+}
+
+ALL_ORDER = ("identify", "corners", "ends", "crosshair", "columns", "rows", "flash", "pulse")
+
+
+def main() -> int:
+    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="Multi-panel positioning and sync test")
+    add_panel_args(parser)
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--test",
+        choices=[*TESTS.keys(), "all"],
+        default="all",
+        help="which test to run (default: full sequence)",
+    )
+    parser.add_argument("--pause", type=float, default=1.2, help="hold time per static pattern")
+    parser.add_argument("--column-pause", type=float, default=0.12, help="delay per column in sweep")
+    parser.add_argument("--row-pause", type=float, default=0.25, help="delay per row in sweep")
+    parser.add_argument("--flashes", type=int, default=3, help="count for sync flash test")
+    parser.add_argument("--pulse-seconds", type=float, default=4.0)
+    parser.add_argument("--fps", type=float, default=30.0)
+    parser.add_argument("--col-start", type=int, default=32, help="width test: first column")
+    parser.add_argument("--col-end", type=int, default=42, help="width test: last column")
+    args = parser.parse_args()
+
+    targets = panel_targets_from_args(args)
+    sock = socket.socket(socket.AF_INET, socket.SOCK_DGRAM)
+    print(f"Panel sync test -> {format_panel_targets(targets, args.port)}")
+    print("Ctrl+C to stop\n")
+
+    tests = ALL_ORDER if args.test == "all" else (args.test,)
+
+    try:
+        for name in tests:
+            fn = TESTS[name]
+            if name == "flash":
+                fn(sock, targets, args.port, args.brightness, args.panel_id, args.pause, args.flashes)
+            elif name == "pulse":
+                fn(sock, targets, args.port, args.brightness, args.panel_id, args.pulse_seconds, args.fps)
+            elif name == "columns":
+                fn(sock, targets, args.port, args.brightness, args.panel_id, args.column_pause)
+            elif name == "rows":
+                fn(sock, targets, args.port, args.brightness, args.panel_id, args.row_pause)
+            elif name == "width":
+                fn(sock, targets, args.port, args.brightness, args.panel_id, args.pause, args.col_start, args.col_end)
+            else:
+                fn(sock, targets, args.port, args.brightness, args.panel_id, args.pause)
+            print()
+        print("Done.")
+    except KeyboardInterrupt:
+        print("\nStopped.")
+    except OSError as exc:
+        print(f"Network error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+    finally:
+        _clear_all(sock, targets, args.port, args.brightness, args.panel_id)
+        sock.close()
+    return 0
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    raise SystemExit(main())
--- a/examples/panel_test.py
+++ b/examples/panel_test.py
@@ -0,0 +1,145 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Step-by-step drive test for Pico panel firmware over UDP."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import argparse
+import sys
+import time
+
+from leds.array_config import MATRIX_HEIGHT, MATRIX_PIXELS, MATRIX_WIDTH, matrix_pixel_index
+from leds.panel_udp import PanelClient, add_panel_args, format_panel_targets, panel_targets_from_args
+
+
+def test_flash(client: PanelClient, pause: float) -> None:
+    print("Test: RGB flash (red, green, blue, off)")
+    for name, color in (("red", (255, 0, 0)), ("green", (0, 255, 0)), ("blue", (0, 0, 255))):
+        print(f"  {name}")
+        client.fill(color)
+        time.sleep(pause)
+    client.clear()
+    time.sleep(pause / 2)
+
+
+def test_corners(client: PanelClient, pause: float) -> None:
+    target = client.targets[0]
+    width, height = target.width, target.height
+    print("Test: matrix corners (left → right rows)")
+    corners = [
+        ("top-left", matrix_pixel_index(0, 0, width, height), (255, 0, 0)),
+        ("top-right", matrix_pixel_index(width - 1, 0, width, height), (0, 255, 0)),
+        ("bottom-left", matrix_pixel_index(0, height - 1, width, height), (0, 0, 255)),
+        ("bottom-right", matrix_pixel_index(width - 1, height - 1, width, height), (255, 255, 0)),
+    ]
+    for label, index, color in corners:
+        if index >= client.pixel_count:
+            print(f"  skip {label} (index {index})")
+            continue
+        print(f"  {label} -> LED {index}")
+        client.set_indices([index], color)
+        time.sleep(pause)
+    client.clear()
+    time.sleep(pause / 2)
+
+
+def test_rows(client: PanelClient, pause: float) -> None:
+    target = client.targets[0]
+    width, height = target.width, target.height
+    print("Test: one row at a time (white)")
+    width = min(width, client.pixel_count)
+    rows = min(height, (client.pixel_count + width - 1) // width)
+    for y in range(rows):
+        indices = [matrix_pixel_index(x, y, width, height) for x in range(width)]
+        indices = [i for i in indices if i < client.pixel_count]
+        print(f"  row {y} ({len(indices)} LEDs)")
+        client.set_indices(indices, (255, 255, 255))
+        time.sleep(pause)
+    client.clear()
+    time.sleep(pause / 2)
+
+
+def test_chase(client: PanelClient, pause: float, steps: int | None) -> None:
+    count = steps if steps is not None else min(client.pixel_count, 60)
+    print(f"Test: chase ({count} steps, cyan)")
+    for i in range(count):
+        client.set_indices([i % client.pixel_count], (0, 255, 255))
+        time.sleep(pause)
+    client.clear()
+    time.sleep(pause / 2)
+
+
+def test_first_last(client: PanelClient, pause: float) -> None:
+    print("Test: first and last LED in chain")
+    last = client.pixel_count - 1
+    print(f"  LED 0 = red, LED {last} = green")
+    pixels = [(0, 0, 0)] * client.pixel_count
+    pixels[0] = (255, 0, 0)
+    pixels[last] = (0, 255, 0)
+    client.send_pixels(pixels)
+    time.sleep(pause)
+    client.clear()
+    time.sleep(pause / 2)
+
+
+TESTS = {
+    "flash": lambda c, p, _s: test_flash(c, p),
+    "first-last": lambda c, p, _s: test_first_last(c, p),
+    "corners": lambda c, p, _s: test_corners(c, p),
+    "rows": lambda c, p, _s: test_rows(c, p),
+    "chase": test_chase,
+}
+
+
+def run_all(client: PanelClient, pause: float, chase_steps: int | None) -> None:
+    test_flash(client, pause)
+    test_first_last(client, pause)
+    if client.pixel_count >= client.targets[0].width:
+        test_corners(client, pause)
+        test_rows(client, max(pause * 0.6, 0.15))
+    test_chase(client, max(pause * 0.25, 0.05), chase_steps)
+    client.clear()
+    print("Done.")
+
+
+def main() -> int:
+    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="Drive-test Pico panel LEDs over UDP")
+    add_panel_args(parser)
+    parser.add_argument("--pause", type=float, default=0.8)
+    parser.add_argument("--test", choices=[*TESTS.keys(), "all"], default="all")
+    parser.add_argument("--chase-steps", type=int, default=None)
+    parser.add_argument("--color", default=None, metavar="R,G,B")
+    args = parser.parse_args()
+
+    if args.count is not None and args.count < 1:
+        print("Error: --count must be at least 1", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+
+    targets = panel_targets_from_args(args)
+    print(f"Panel drive test -> {format_panel_targets(targets, args.port)}")
+
+    try:
+        with PanelClient.from_args(args) as client:
+            if args.color:
+                parts = [int(p.strip()) for p in args.color.split(",")]
+                if len(parts) != 3:
+                    raise SystemExit("--color must be R,G,B")
+                client.fill((parts[0], parts[1], parts[2]))
+                print(f"Sent solid color {tuple(parts)}")
+                return 0
+
+            if args.test == "all":
+                run_all(client, args.pause, args.chase_steps)
+            else:
+                TESTS[args.test](client, args.pause, args.chase_steps)
+                client.clear()
+                print("Done.")
+    except KeyboardInterrupt:
+        print("\nStopped.")
+    except OSError as exc:
+        print(f"Network error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+    return 0
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    raise SystemExit(main())
--- a/examples/panel_text.py
+++ b/examples/panel_text.py
@@ -0,0 +1,101 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Display text on Pico panel(s) over UDP."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import argparse
+import socket
+import subprocess
+import sys
+import time
+
+from leds.panel_udp import (
+    HeadlessMatrix,
+    add_panel_args,
+    format_panel_targets,
+    panel_targets_from_args,
+    send_frame,
+)
+from leds.text import draw_text, draw_text_centered
+
+DEFAULT_NAME = "JIMMY"
+
+
+def _default_name() -> str:
+    try:
+        out = subprocess.run(
+            ["git", "config", "user.name"],
+            capture_output=True,
+            text=True,
+            check=False,
+        )
+        name = out.stdout.strip()
+        if name:
+            return name.upper()
+    except OSError:
+        pass
+    return DEFAULT_NAME
+
+
+def main() -> int:
+    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="Display text on LED panel(s)")
+    parser.add_argument("text", nargs="?", default=None)
+    add_panel_args(parser)
+    parser.add_argument("--color", default="255,200,80", metavar="R,G,B")
+    parser.add_argument("--hold", type=float, default=0.0, help="0 = show until Ctrl+C")
+    parser.add_argument("--scroll", action="store_true")
+    args = parser.parse_args()
+
+    text = (args.text or _default_name()).upper()
+    parts = [int(p.strip()) for p in args.color.split(",")]
+    if len(parts) != 3:
+        print("Error: --color must be R,G,B", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+    color = (parts[0], parts[1], parts[2])
+
+    targets = panel_targets_from_args(args)
+    sock = socket.socket(socket.AF_INET, socket.SOCK_DGRAM)
+    print(f"Displaying '{text}' on {format_panel_targets(targets, args.port)}")
+
+    try:
+        matrices = [
+            (target, HeadlessMatrix(target.width, target.height, brightness=args.brightness))
+            for target in targets
+        ]
+        if args.scroll:
+            start = time.monotonic()
+            offsets = {target.index: matrix.width for target, matrix in matrices}
+            while True:
+                for target, matrix in matrices:
+                    matrix.clear()
+                    draw_text(matrix, text, offsets[target.index], 1, color)
+                    send_frame(sock, target.host, args.port, matrix.rgb_bytes(), args.panel_id)
+                    offsets[target.index] -= 1
+                    if offsets[target.index] < -len(text) * 6:
+                        offsets[target.index] = matrix.width
+                time.sleep(0.08)
+                if args.hold > 0 and time.monotonic() - start >= args.hold:
+                    break
+        else:
+            for target, matrix in matrices:
+                matrix.clear()
+                draw_text_centered(matrix, text, color)
+                send_frame(sock, target.host, args.port, matrix.rgb_bytes(), args.panel_id)
+            if args.hold <= 0:
+                print("Showing (Ctrl+C to clear)")
+                while True:
+                    time.sleep(1)
+            else:
+                time.sleep(args.hold)
+    except KeyboardInterrupt:
+        print("\nClearing.")
+    finally:
+        for target, matrix in matrices:
+            matrix.clear()
+            send_frame(sock, target.host, args.port, matrix.rgb_bytes(), args.panel_id)
+        sock.close()
+    return 0
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    raise SystemExit(main())
--- a/examples/panel_udp_send.py
+++ b/examples/panel_udp_send.py
@@ -0,0 +1,48 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Send one animation to Pico panel(s) over UDP."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import argparse
+import sys
+
+from leds.animations import ANIMATIONS, DEFAULT_FPS
+from leds.panel_udp import (
+    add_panel_args,
+    format_panel_targets,
+    panel_targets_from_args,
+    run_panel_animation_loop,
+)
+
+
+def main() -> int:
+    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(description="UDP animation sender for Pico panel(s)")
+    add_panel_args(parser)
+    parser.add_argument("--animation", default="rainbow", choices=sorted(ANIMATIONS))
+    parser.add_argument("--fps", type=float, default=None)
+    parser.add_argument("--brightness", type=float, default=0.25)
+    args = parser.parse_args()
+
+    targets = panel_targets_from_args(args)
+    fps = args.fps or DEFAULT_FPS.get(args.animation, 30)
+    print(f"Sending {args.animation} to {format_panel_targets(targets, args.port)} @ {fps:.0f} fps")
+
+    try:
+        run_panel_animation_loop(
+            targets,
+            args.port,
+            args.animation,
+            fps=args.fps,
+            brightness=args.brightness,
+            panel_id=args.panel_id,
+        )
+    except KeyboardInterrupt:
+        print("\nStopped.")
+    except OSError as exc:
+        print(f"Network error: {exc}", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+    return 0
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    raise SystemExit(main())
--- a/examples/setup_pi5_leds.py
+++ b/examples/setup_pi5_leds.py
@@ -0,0 +1,69 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env python3
+"""Print or install Pi 5 ws2812-pio overlay lines for two strips."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import argparse
+import sys
+from pathlib import Path
+
+CONFIG = Path("/boot/firmware/config.txt")
+MARKER = "# portal ws2812 strips"
+
+
+def overlay_lines(count0: int, count1: int, gpio0: int, gpio1: int) -> list[str]:
+    return [
+        MARKER,
+        f"dtoverlay=ws2812-pio,gpio={gpio0},num_leds={count0}",
+        f"dtoverlay=ws2812-pio,gpio={gpio1},num_leds={count1}",
+    ]
+
+
+def main() -> int:
+    parser = argparse.ArgumentParser(
+        description="Configure Pi 5 ws2812-pio overlays for two LED strips"
+    )
+    parser.add_argument("-n", type=int, nargs=2, default=[10, 10], metavar=("STRIP0", "STRIP1"))
+    parser.add_argument("--gpio0", type=int, default=18, help="strip 0 data pin (default 18)")
+    parser.add_argument("--gpio1", type=int, default=13, help="strip 1 data pin (default 13)")
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--install",
+        action="store_true",
+        help="append overlay lines to /boot/firmware/config.txt (requires sudo)",
+    )
+    args = parser.parse_args()
+
+    lines = overlay_lines(args.n[0], args.n[1], args.gpio0, args.gpio1)
+
+    print("Add these lines to /boot/firmware/config.txt under [all], then reboot:\n")
+    for line in lines:
+        print(line)
+    print(
+        f"\nWiring: strip 0 DIN → GPIO {args.gpio0}, strip 1 DIN → GPIO {args.gpio1}, "
+        "GND → Pi GND, 5V from external supply for long strips."
+    )
+    print("\nAfter reboot you should see /dev/leds0 and /dev/leds1.")
+
+    if not args.install:
+        return 0
+
+    if not CONFIG.exists():
+        print(f"Error: {CONFIG} not found", file=sys.stderr)
+        return 1
+
+    text = CONFIG.read_text()
+    if MARKER in text:
+        print("\nOverlay lines already present in config.txt.")
+        return 0
+
+    with CONFIG.open("a") as f:
+        f.write("\n")
+        for line in lines:
+            f.write(line + "\n")
+
+    print(f"\nAppended to {CONFIG}. Reboot to apply.")
+    return 0
+
+
+if __name__ == "__main__":
+    raise SystemExit(main())
--- a/firmware/panel/CMakeLists.txt
+++ b/firmware/panel/CMakeLists.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,74 @@
+cmake_minimum_required(VERSION 3.13)
+
+set(PICO_BOARD pico CACHE STRING "Board type")
+
+include(pico_sdk_import.cmake)
+
+project(portal_panel C CXX ASM)
+set(CMAKE_C_STANDARD 11)
+
+pico_sdk_init()
+
+include(FetchContent)
+FetchContent_Declare(
+    iolibrary
+    GIT_REPOSITORY https://github.com/Wiznet/ioLibrary_Driver.git
+    GIT_TAG master
+)
+FetchContent_MakeAvailable(iolibrary)
+
+set(IOLIB_DIR ${iolibrary_SOURCE_DIR})
+
+add_executable(panel
+    main.c
+    wizchip_spi.c
+    timer.c
+    ws2812_led.cpp
+    WS2812.cpp
+    ${IOLIB_DIR}/Ethernet/socket.c
+    ${IOLIB_DIR}/Ethernet/wizchip_conf.c
+    ${IOLIB_DIR}/Ethernet/W5500/w5500.c
+    ${IOLIB_DIR}/Internet/DHCP/dhcp.c
+)
+
+pico_generate_pio_header(panel ${CMAKE_CURRENT_LIST_DIR}/WS2812.pio)
+
+target_include_directories(panel PRIVATE
+    ${CMAKE_CURRENT_LIST_DIR}
+    ${IOLIB_DIR}/Ethernet
+    ${IOLIB_DIR}/Internet/DHCP
+)
+
+target_compile_definitions(panel PRIVATE
+    _WIZCHIP_=W5500
+)
+
+if (DEFINED PANEL_ID_BUILD)
+    target_compile_definitions(panel PRIVATE PANEL_ID=${PANEL_ID_BUILD})
+endif ()
+
+if (DEFINED NUM_LEDS_BUILD)
+    target_compile_definitions(panel PRIVATE NUM_LEDS=${NUM_LEDS_BUILD})
+endif ()
+
+if (DEFINED WS2812_PIN_BUILD)
+    target_compile_definitions(panel PRIVATE PIN_WS2812=${WS2812_PIN_BUILD})
+endif ()
+
+option(PORTAL_USE_DHCP "Use DHCP for W5500" OFF)
+if (PORTAL_USE_DHCP)
+    target_compile_definitions(panel PRIVATE USE_DHCP=1)
+else ()
+    target_compile_definitions(panel PRIVATE USE_DHCP=0)
+endif ()
+
+target_link_libraries(panel
+    pico_stdlib
+    hardware_spi
+    hardware_pio
+)
+
+pico_enable_stdio_usb(panel 1)
+pico_enable_stdio_uart(panel 0)
+
+pico_add_extra_outputs(panel)
--- a/firmware/panel/Makefile
+++ b/firmware/panel/Makefile
@@ -0,0 +1,113 @@
+# Portal panel firmware — build and USB deploy
+#
+# Usage:
+#   make              # build only
+#   make deploy       # build + flash over USB (picotool)
+#   make clean
+#
+# Options (passed to cmake on configure/reconfigure):
+#   make deploy PANEL_ID=0
+#   make deploy NO_DHCP=1
+#   make deploy WS2812_PIN=28   # if data wire is on GP28 not GP27
+#
+# Environment:
+#   PICO_SDK_PATH     default: ~/pico/pico-sdk
+#   SERIAL_PORT       default: first /dev/ttyACM* or /dev/ttyACM0
+
+PICO_SDK_PATH ?= $(HOME)/pico/pico-sdk
+BUILD_DIR     := build
+UF2           := $(BUILD_DIR)/panel.uf2
+CMAKE_STAMP   := $(BUILD_DIR)/.cmake_stamp
+JOBS          ?= $(shell nproc 2>/dev/null || echo 4)
+SERIAL_PORT   ?= $(shell ls /dev/ttyACM* 2>/dev/null | head -1)
+ifeq ($(SERIAL_PORT),)
+SERIAL_PORT   := /dev/ttyACM0
+endif
+SERIAL_BAUD   ?= 115200
+
+CMAKE_ARGS :=
+ifdef PANEL_ID
+CMAKE_ARGS += -DPANEL_ID_BUILD=$(PANEL_ID)
+# Panels 0 and 4 are 9×39 (351); others are 9×45 (405). Always pass NUM_LEDS so
+# cmake cache cannot keep a stale count from a previous PANEL_ID flash.
+ifeq ($(PANEL_ID),0)
+NUM_LEDS ?= 351
+else ifeq ($(PANEL_ID),4)
+NUM_LEDS ?= 351
+else
+NUM_LEDS ?= 405
+endif
+CMAKE_ARGS += -DNUM_LEDS_BUILD=$(NUM_LEDS)
+else
+ifdef NUM_LEDS
+CMAKE_ARGS += -DNUM_LEDS_BUILD=$(NUM_LEDS)
+endif
+endif
+ifdef WS2812_PIN
+CMAKE_ARGS += -DWS2812_PIN_BUILD=$(WS2812_PIN)
+endif
+ifeq ($(NO_DHCP),0)
+CMAKE_ARGS += -DPORTAL_USE_DHCP=ON
+else
+CMAKE_ARGS += -DPORTAL_USE_DHCP=OFF
+endif
+
+CMAKE_STAMP_BODY := $(strip $(CMAKE_ARGS))
+
+SOURCES := $(wildcard *.c *.cpp *.h) WS2812.pio CMakeLists.txt pico_sdk_import.cmake
+
+.PHONY: all build configure reconfigure deploy flash upload monitor clean help
+
+all: build
+
+help:
+	@echo "Targets:"
+	@echo "  make build      Build panel.uf2"
+	@echo "  make deploy     Build and flash over USB"
+	@echo "  make flash      Alias for deploy"
+	@echo "  make monitor    USB serial console (picocom, Ctrl+A Ctrl+X to quit)"
+	@echo "  make clean      Remove build directory"
+	@echo "  make reconfigure  Re-run cmake (e.g. after changing PANEL_ID)"
+
+build: configure
+	@echo "==> Building panel firmware"
+	PICO_SDK_PATH="$(PICO_SDK_PATH)" cmake --build $(BUILD_DIR) -j$(JOBS)
+	@test -f "$(UF2)" || (echo "Error: build did not produce panel.uf2" && exit 1)
+	@echo "==> Build OK: $(UF2)"
+
+configure:
+	@test -d "$(PICO_SDK_PATH)" || (echo "Error: pico-sdk not found at $(PICO_SDK_PATH) (set PICO_SDK_PATH)" && exit 1)
+	@command -v cmake >/dev/null || (echo "Error: cmake is required" && exit 1)
+	@mkdir -p $(BUILD_DIR)
+	@STAMP='$(CMAKE_STAMP_BODY)'; \
+	if [ ! -f "$(BUILD_DIR)/CMakeCache.txt" ] || [ ! -f "$(CMAKE_STAMP)" ] || [ "$$(cat $(CMAKE_STAMP))" != "$$STAMP" ]; then \
+		echo "==> Configuring cmake in $(BUILD_DIR) $(CMAKE_ARGS)"; \
+		PICO_SDK_PATH="$(PICO_SDK_PATH)" cmake -S . -B $(BUILD_DIR) $(CMAKE_ARGS); \
+		echo "$$STAMP" > "$(CMAKE_STAMP)"; \
+	fi
+
+reconfigure:
+	@test -d "$(PICO_SDK_PATH)" || (echo "Error: pico-sdk not found at $(PICO_SDK_PATH) (set PICO_SDK_PATH)" && exit 1)
+	@mkdir -p $(BUILD_DIR)
+	@echo "==> Reconfiguring cmake in $(BUILD_DIR) $(CMAKE_ARGS)"
+	PICO_SDK_PATH="$(PICO_SDK_PATH)" cmake -S . -B $(BUILD_DIR) $(CMAKE_ARGS)
+	@echo '$(CMAKE_STAMP_BODY)' > $(CMAKE_STAMP)
+
+deploy: build
+	@command -v picotool >/dev/null || (echo "Error: picotool not found (https://github.com/raspberrypi/picotool)" && exit 1)
+	@picotool version 2>&1 | grep -q 'without USB support' && \
+		(echo "Error: picotool was built without USB support" && exit 1) || true
+	@echo "==> Uploading $(UF2) over USB"
+	@picotool load -x -f "$(UF2)"
+
+flash: deploy
+upload: deploy
+
+monitor:
+	@command -v picocom >/dev/null || (echo "Error: picocom not found (sudo apt install picocom)" && exit 1)
+	@test -e "$(SERIAL_PORT)" || (echo "Error: $(SERIAL_PORT) not found (plug in Pico USB, or set SERIAL_PORT=...)" && exit 1)
+	@echo "==> Serial monitor on $(SERIAL_PORT) ($(SERIAL_BAUD) baud, Ctrl+A Ctrl+X to quit)"
+	picocom --baud $(SERIAL_BAUD) --flow n --echo $(SERIAL_PORT)
+
+clean:
+	rm -rf $(BUILD_DIR)
--- a/firmware/panel/README.md
+++ b/firmware/panel/README.md
@@ -0,0 +1,125 @@
+# Portal panel firmware (Pico SDK)
+
+C firmware for a **Pico + W5500 + WS2812** panel adapter. Replaces the slow CircuitPython `adapter/code.py` path with native UDP receive and PIO WS2812 output.
+
+## Hardware
+
+Matches `adapter/code.py`:
+
+| Signal | GPIO |
+|--------|------|
+| W5500 CS | GP9 |
+| SPI1 SCK | GP10 |
+| SPI1 MOSI | GP11 |
+| SPI1 MISO | GP12 |
+| W5500 RST | GP13 |
+| Status LED | GP25 |
+| WS2812 data | GP27 |
+
+Default: **405 LEDs** (45×9 matrix chain), one data pin per panel.
+
+WS2812 output uses [ForsakenNGS/Pico_WS2812](https://github.com/ForsakenNGS/Pico_WS2812) (FORMAT_GRB on GP27).
+
+## Build
+
+Requires [pico-sdk](https://github.com/raspberrypi/pico-sdk) and the ARM GCC toolchain (`arm-none-eabi-gcc`).
+
+```bash
+# From repo root
+make deploy          # build + flash over USB
+make build           # build only
+
+# Or from this directory
+make deploy
+```
+
+Manual cmake (one-time pico-sdk setup):
+
+```bash
+git clone https://github.com/raspberrypi/pico-sdk.git ~/pico/pico-sdk
+cd ~/pico/pico-sdk && git submodule update --init
+export PICO_SDK_PATH=~/pico/pico-sdk
+
+mkdir -p build && cd build
+cmake ..
+make -j$(nproc)
+```
+
+UF2 output: `build/panel.uf2` — hold BOOTSEL and copy to the Pico.
+
+### Options
+
+```bash
+# Panel 0 of 5 → 10.1.1.10, unique MAC, UDP panel_id filter
+make deploy PANEL_ID=0   # 10.1.1.10
+make deploy PANEL_ID=1   # 10.1.1.11
+
+# DHCP instead of static 10.1.1.10–14
+make deploy PANEL_ID=0 NO_DHCP=0
+
+# Fewer LEDs for bench test
+make deploy NUM_LEDS=2
+```
+
+Static IP and MAC are derived from `PANEL_ID`:
+
+| Panel | IP | MAC |
+|-------|-----|-----|
+| 0 | 10.1.1.10 | 02:50:52:54:4C:00 |
+| 1 | 10.1.1.11 | 02:50:52:54:4C:01 |
+| … | … | … |
+| 4 | 10.1.1.14 | 02:50:52:54:4C:04 |
+| 255 (bench) | 10.1.1.19 | 02:50:52:54:4C:FF |
+
+Edit `board_config.h` for gateway, subnet, and pin changes.
+
+## UDP protocol (port 50007)
+
+| Payload | Action |
+|---------|--------|
+| **1215 bytes** | Raw RGB (`405 × 3`), show immediately |
+| **1216 bytes** | `panel_id` (byte 0) + RGB; `255` = accept on any panel |
+| **4 bytes `SHOW`** | Push buffered pixels to the strip (sync helper) |
+
+Pi sends **RGB** order; firmware converts to WS2812 **GRB**.
+
+Target throughput: ~30–50 fps per panel (vs ~10–20 fps on CircuitPython).
+
+## Pi test sender
+
+```bash
+pipenv run python examples/panel_udp_send.py --host 192.168.2.111 --animation rainbow
+```
+
+## Flashing
+
+Requires [picotool](https://github.com/raspberrypi/picotool) with libusb support:
+
+```bash
+make deploy
+```
+
+Or `./scripts/panel_deploy.sh` (same thing).
+
+Or manually:
+
+```bash
+picotool load -x -f build/panel.uf2
+```
+
+`-f` forces a USB reboot into BOOTSEL when the panel is already running.
+
+Legacy UF2 drag-and-drop also works: hold BOOTSEL, plug USB, copy `panel.uf2` to `RPI-RP2`.
+
+Serial debug:
+
+```bash
+make monitor
+# or: picocom /dev/ttyACM0
+```
+
+Ctrl+A then Ctrl+X to exit picocom.
+
+## Multi-panel (5 Picos)
+
+Flash each Pico with `PANEL_ID` 0–4 (`make deploy PANEL_ID=N`). Each gets `10.1.1.1N` (10–14), a unique MAC, and UDP filtering. Send frames from the Pi to each panel’s IP, or use a leading `panel_id` byte with `255` broadcast filtering.
--- a/firmware/panel/WS2812.cpp
+++ b/firmware/panel/WS2812.cpp
@@ -0,0 +1,92 @@
+/* WS2812 driver — from https://github.com/ForsakenNGS/Pico_WS2812 (BSD-style) */
+
+#include "WS2812.hpp"
+
+#include "WS2812.pio.h"
+
+#include <cstdlib>
+
+WS2812::WS2812(uint pin, uint length, PIO pio, uint sm) {
+    initialize(pin, length, pio, sm, NONE, GREEN, RED, BLUE);
+}
+
+WS2812::WS2812(uint pin, uint length, PIO pio, uint sm, DataFormat format) {
+    switch (format) {
+    case FORMAT_RGB:
+        initialize(pin, length, pio, sm, NONE, RED, GREEN, BLUE);
+        break;
+    case FORMAT_GRB:
+        initialize(pin, length, pio, sm, NONE, GREEN, RED, BLUE);
+        break;
+    case FORMAT_WRGB:
+        initialize(pin, length, pio, sm, WHITE, RED, GREEN, BLUE);
+        break;
+    }
+}
+
+WS2812::~WS2812() {
+    delete[] data;
+}
+
+void WS2812::initialize(uint pin, uint length, PIO pio, uint sm, DataByte b1, DataByte b2,
+                        DataByte b3, DataByte b4) {
+    this->pin = pin;
+    this->length = length;
+    this->pio = pio;
+    this->sm = sm;
+    this->data = new uint32_t[length];
+    this->bytes[0] = b1;
+    this->bytes[1] = b2;
+    this->bytes[2] = b3;
+    this->bytes[3] = b4;
+    uint offset = pio_add_program(pio, &ws2812_program);
+    uint bits = (b1 == NONE ? 24 : 32);
+    ws2812_program_init(pio, sm, offset, pin, 800000, bits);
+}
+
+uint32_t WS2812::convertData(uint32_t rgbw) {
+    uint32_t result = 0;
+    for (uint b = 0; b < 4; b++) {
+        switch (bytes[b]) {
+        case RED:
+            result |= (rgbw & 0xFF);
+            break;
+        case GREEN:
+            result |= (rgbw & 0xFF00) >> 8;
+            break;
+        case BLUE:
+            result |= (rgbw & 0xFF0000) >> 16;
+            break;
+        case WHITE:
+            result |= (rgbw & 0xFF000000) >> 24;
+            break;
+        default:
+            break;
+        }
+        result <<= 8;
+    }
+    return result;
+}
+
+void WS2812::setPixelColor(uint index, uint32_t color) {
+    if (index < length) {
+        data[index] = convertData(color);
+    }
+}
+
+void WS2812::setPixelColor(uint index, uint8_t red, uint8_t green, uint8_t blue) {
+    setPixelColor(index, RGB(red, green, blue));
+}
+
+void WS2812::fill(uint32_t color) {
+    color = convertData(color);
+    for (uint i = 0; i < length; i++) {
+        data[i] = color;
+    }
+}
+
+void WS2812::show() {
+    for (uint i = 0; i < length; i++) {
+        pio_sm_put_blocking(pio, sm, data[i]);
+    }
+}
--- a/firmware/panel/WS2812.hpp
+++ b/firmware/panel/WS2812.hpp
@@ -0,0 +1,38 @@
+#ifndef WS2812_H
+#define WS2812_H
+
+#include "hardware/pio.h"
+#include "pico/types.h"
+
+class WS2812 {
+ public:
+    enum DataByte { NONE = 0, RED = 1, GREEN = 2, BLUE = 3, WHITE = 4 };
+    enum DataFormat { FORMAT_RGB = 0, FORMAT_GRB = 1, FORMAT_WRGB = 2 };
+
+    WS2812(uint pin, uint length, PIO pio, uint sm);
+    WS2812(uint pin, uint length, PIO pio, uint sm, DataFormat format);
+    ~WS2812();
+
+    static uint32_t RGB(uint8_t red, uint8_t green, uint8_t blue) {
+        return (uint32_t)(blue) << 16 | (uint32_t)(green) << 8 | (uint32_t)(red);
+    }
+
+    void setPixelColor(uint index, uint32_t color);
+    void setPixelColor(uint index, uint8_t red, uint8_t green, uint8_t blue);
+    void fill(uint32_t color);
+    void show();
+
+ private:
+    uint pin;
+    uint length;
+    PIO pio;
+    uint sm;
+    DataByte bytes[4];
+    uint32_t *data;
+
+    void initialize(uint pin, uint length, PIO pio, uint sm, DataByte b1, DataByte b2,
+                    DataByte b3, DataByte b4);
+    uint32_t convertData(uint32_t rgbw);
+};
+
+#endif
--- a/firmware/panel/WS2812.pio
+++ b/firmware/panel/WS2812.pio
@@ -0,0 +1,44 @@
+;
+; WS2812 PIO — from https://github.com/ForsakenNGS/Pico_WS2812
+;
+.program ws2812
+.side_set 1
+
+.define public T1 2
+.define public T2 5
+.define public T3 3
+
+.lang_opt python sideset_init = pico.PIO.OUT_HIGH
+.lang_opt python out_init = pico.PIO.OUT_HIGH
+.lang_opt python out_shiftdir = 1
+
+.wrap_target
+bitloop:
+    out x, 1               side 0 [T3 - 1]
+    jmp !x send_zero       side 1 [T1 - 1]
+send_one:
+    jmp bitloop            side 1 [T2 - 1]
+send_zero:
+    nop                    side 0 [T2 - 1]
+.wrap
+
+% c-sdk {
+#include "hardware/clocks.h"
+
+static inline void ws2812_program_init(PIO pio, uint sm, uint offset, uint pin, float freq, uint bits) {
+    pio_gpio_init(pio, pin);
+    pio_sm_set_consecutive_pindirs(pio, sm, pin, 1, true);
+
+    pio_sm_config c = ws2812_program_get_default_config(offset);
+    sm_config_set_sideset_pins(&c, pin);
+    sm_config_set_out_shift(&c, false, true, bits);
+    sm_config_set_fifo_join(&c, PIO_FIFO_JOIN_TX);
+
+    int cycles_per_bit = ws2812_T1 + ws2812_T2 + ws2812_T3;
+    float div = (float)clock_get_hz(clk_sys) / (freq * (float)cycles_per_bit);
+    sm_config_set_clkdiv(&c, div);
+
+    pio_sm_init(pio, sm, offset, &c);
+    pio_sm_set_enabled(pio, sm, true);
+}
+%}
--- a/firmware/panel/board_config.h
+++ b/firmware/panel/board_config.h
@@ -0,0 +1,53 @@
+#ifndef BOARD_CONFIG_H
+#define BOARD_CONFIG_H
+
+/* Matches adapter/code.py — W5500 on SPI1, WS2812 on GP27 */
+
+#define PIN_LED_STATUS 25
+
+#define SPI_PORT spi1
+#define SPI_CLK_MHZ 20
+
+#define PIN_CS 9
+#define PIN_SCK 10
+#define PIN_MOSI 11
+#define PIN_MISO 12
+#define PIN_RST 13
+
+#ifndef PIN_WS2812
+#define PIN_WS2812 27
+#endif
+
+#ifndef NUM_LEDS
+#define NUM_LEDS 405
+#endif
+
+#define LED_RGB_BYTES (NUM_LEDS * 3)
+
+/* W5500 socket assignments */
+#define SOCKET_DHCP 0
+#define SOCKET_UDP 1
+
+/* UDP port (same as CircuitPython adapter) */
+#define UDP_PORT 50007
+
+/* Compile-time panel index for filtered frames (0–4). 255 = accept all. */
+#ifndef PANEL_ID
+#define PANEL_ID 255
+#endif
+
+/* 1 = DHCP, 0 = static IP below */
+#ifndef USE_DHCP
+#define USE_DHCP 0
+#endif
+
+#define STATIC_IP_OCT4 ((PANEL_ID) == 255 ? 19u : (10u + (unsigned)(PANEL_ID)))
+#define STATIC_IP {10, 1, 1, (uint8_t)STATIC_IP_OCT4}
+#define STATIC_SN {255, 255, 255, 0}
+#define STATIC_GW {10, 1, 1, 1}
+#define STATIC_DNS {10, 1, 1, 1}
+
+/* Locally administered; last byte = PANEL_ID (unique per panel 0–4). */
+#define MAC_ADDR {0x02, 0x50, 0x52, 0x54, 0x4C, (uint8_t)PANEL_ID}
+
+#endif
--- a/firmware/panel/main.c
+++ b/firmware/panel/main.c
@@ -0,0 +1,219 @@
+/**
+ * Portal panel firmware — W5500 UDP + WS2812 (Pico SDK).
+ *
+ * UDP protocol (port 50007):
+ *   - N×3 bytes: raw RGB (N = NUM_LEDS), show immediately
+ *   - N×3+1 bytes: panel_id (byte 0) + RGB; panel_id 255 = any panel
+ *   - 4 bytes "SHOW": refresh buffered pixels (for split frame/show sync)
+ */
+
+#include <stdio.h>
+#include <stdint.h>
+#include <string.h>
+
+#include "board_config.h"
+#include "wizchip_conf.h"
+#include "dhcp.h"
+#include "socket.h"
+#include "timer.h"
+#include "wizchip_spi.h"
+#include "ws2812_led.h"
+
+#include "hardware/gpio.h"
+#include "pico/stdlib.h"
+
+#define SOCKET_UDP 1
+#define SOCKET_DHCP 0
+#define ETH_BUF_SIZE 2048
+#define DHCP_RETRY_MAX 10
+
+static wiz_NetInfo g_net_info = {
+    .mac = MAC_ADDR,
+    .ip = STATIC_IP,
+    .sn = STATIC_SN,
+    .gw = STATIC_GW,
+    .dns = STATIC_DNS,
+#if USE_DHCP
+    .dhcp = NETINFO_DHCP,
+#else
+    .dhcp = NETINFO_STATIC,
+#endif
+};
+
+static uint8_t g_eth_buf[ETH_BUF_SIZE];
+static uint8_t g_pixel_buf[LED_RGB_BYTES];
+static volatile uint16_t g_ms_tick;
+static uint8_t g_dhcp_ready;
+
+static void dhcp_timer_cb(void) {
+    g_ms_tick++;
+    if (g_ms_tick >= 999) {
+        g_ms_tick = 0;
+        DHCP_time_handler();
+    }
+}
+
+static void dhcp_assign(void) {
+    getIPfromDHCP(g_net_info.ip);
+    getGWfromDHCP(g_net_info.gw);
+    getSNfromDHCP(g_net_info.sn);
+    getDNSfromDHCP(g_net_info.dns);
+    g_net_info.dhcp = NETINFO_DHCP;
+    network_initialize(g_net_info);
+    print_network_information(g_net_info);
+    g_dhcp_ready = 1;
+}
+
+static void dhcp_conflict(void) {
+    printf("DHCP conflict\n");
+}
+
+static int network_bring_up(void) {
+#if USE_DHCP
+    uint8_t retries = 0;
+    DHCP_init(SOCKET_DHCP, g_eth_buf);
+    reg_dhcp_cbfunc(dhcp_assign, dhcp_assign, dhcp_conflict);
+    wizchip_1ms_timer_initialize(dhcp_timer_cb);
+
+    while (!g_dhcp_ready && retries < DHCP_RETRY_MAX) {
+        int8_t rv = DHCP_run();
+        if (rv == DHCP_IP_LEASED) {
+            g_dhcp_ready = 1;
+            break;
+        }
+        if (rv == DHCP_FAILED) {
+            retries++;
+        }
+        wizchip_delay_ms(250);
+    }
+    if (!g_dhcp_ready) {
+        printf("DHCP failed, using static IP\n");
+        g_net_info.dhcp = NETINFO_STATIC;
+        network_initialize(g_net_info);
+        print_network_information(g_net_info);
+    }
+#else
+    network_initialize(g_net_info);
+    print_network_information(g_net_info);
+#endif
+    return 0;
+}
+
+static int udp_socket_open(void) {
+    int8_t sn = socket(SOCKET_UDP, Sn_MR_UDP, UDP_PORT, 0);
+    if (sn != SOCKET_UDP) {
+        printf("UDP socket open failed: %d\n", sn);
+        return -1;
+    }
+    printf("UDP listening on port %d\n", UDP_PORT);
+    return 0;
+}
+
+static void led_boot_test(void) {
+    printf("LED boot test on GP%d (%d pixels)\n", PIN_WS2812, NUM_LEDS);
+    ws2812_fill(255, 0, 0);
+    ws2812_show();
+    sleep_ms(500);
+    ws2812_fill(0, 255, 0);
+    ws2812_show();
+    sleep_ms(500);
+    ws2812_fill(0, 0, 0);
+    ws2812_show();
+}
+
+static int handle_frame(const uint8_t *rgb, uint16_t len) {
+    if (len != LED_RGB_BYTES) {
+        printf("frame reject len=%u want=%u\n", (unsigned)len, (unsigned)LED_RGB_BYTES);
+        return -1;
+    }
+    ws2812_set_rgb(rgb, NUM_LEDS);
+    ws2812_show();
+    return 0;
+}
+
+static void handle_packet(const uint8_t *data, int16_t len) {
+    if (len == 4 && memcmp(data, "SHOW", 4) == 0) {
+        ws2812_set_rgb(g_pixel_buf, NUM_LEDS);
+        ws2812_show();
+        return;
+    }
+
+    if (len == LED_RGB_BYTES) {
+        memcpy(g_pixel_buf, data, LED_RGB_BYTES);
+        handle_frame(data, (uint16_t)len);
+        return;
+    }
+
+    if (len == LED_RGB_BYTES + 1) {
+        uint8_t panel = data[0];
+        if (panel != 255 && panel != (uint8_t)PANEL_ID) {
+            return;
+        }
+        memcpy(g_pixel_buf, data + 1, LED_RGB_BYTES);
+        handle_frame(data + 1, LED_RGB_BYTES);
+        return;
+    }
+}
+
+static void poll_udp(void) {
+    while (1) {
+        uint16_t rx = getSn_RX_RSR(SOCKET_UDP);
+        if (rx == 0) {
+            return;
+        }
+        if (rx > ETH_BUF_SIZE) {
+            rx = ETH_BUF_SIZE;
+        }
+
+        uint8_t src_ip[4];
+        uint16_t src_port;
+        int16_t n = recvfrom(SOCKET_UDP, g_eth_buf, rx, src_ip, &src_port);
+        if (n <= 0) {
+            return;
+        }
+        handle_packet(g_eth_buf, n);
+    }
+}
+
+int main(void) {
+    stdio_init_all();
+    sleep_ms(2000);
+
+    gpio_init(PIN_LED_STATUS);
+    gpio_set_dir(PIN_LED_STATUS, GPIO_OUT);
+
+    printf("portal panel firmware (Pico SDK)\n");
+    printf("LEDs=%d panel_id=%d mac=02:50:52:54:4C:%02X ip=10.1.1.%u\n",
+           NUM_LEDS, PANEL_ID, (unsigned)PANEL_ID, (unsigned)STATIC_IP_OCT4);
+
+    wizchip_spi_initialize();
+    wizchip_cris_initialize();
+    wizchip_reset();
+    wizchip_initialize();
+    wizchip_check();
+
+    ws2812_init(PIN_WS2812, NUM_LEDS);
+    memset(g_pixel_buf, 0, sizeof(g_pixel_buf));
+    led_boot_test();
+
+    network_bring_up();
+    if (udp_socket_open() != 0) {
+        while (1) {
+            gpio_xor_mask(1u << PIN_LED_STATUS);
+            sleep_ms(100);
+        }
+    }
+
+    uint32_t heartbeat = 0;
+    while (1) {
+#if USE_DHCP
+        DHCP_run();
+#endif
+        poll_udp();
+        if (++heartbeat >= 500) {
+            gpio_xor_mask(1u << PIN_LED_STATUS);
+            heartbeat = 0;
+        }
+        sleep_ms(1);
+    }
+}
--- a/firmware/panel/pico_sdk_import.cmake
+++ b/firmware/panel/pico_sdk_import.cmake
@@ -0,0 +1,54 @@
+# This can be dropped into any project as a standalone CMake file
+# SPDX-License-Identifier: BSD-3-Clause
+
+if (DEFINED ENV{PICO_SDK_PATH} AND (NOT PICO_SDK_PATH))
+    set(PICO_SDK_PATH $ENV{PICO_SDK_PATH})
+endif ()
+
+if (DEFINED ENV{PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT} AND (NOT PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT))
+    set(PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT $ENV{PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT})
+endif ()
+
+if (DEFINED ENV{PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT_PATH} AND (NOT PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT_PATH))
+    set(PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT_PATH $ENV{PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT_PATH})
+endif ()
+
+set(PICO_SDK_PATH "${PICO_SDK_PATH}" CACHE PATH "Path to the Raspberry Pi Pico SDK")
+set(PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT "${PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT}" CACHE BOOL "Set to ON to fetch Pico SDK from git")
+set(PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT_PATH "${PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT_PATH}" CACHE FILEPATH "Location to download Pico SDK")
+
+if (NOT PICO_SDK_PATH)
+    if (PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT)
+        include(FetchContent)
+        set(FETCHCONTENT_BASE_DIR_SAVE ${FETCHCONTENT_BASE_DIR})
+        if (PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT_PATH)
+            get_filename_component(FETCHCONTENT_BASE_DIR "${PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT_PATH}" REALPATH)
+        endif ()
+        FetchContent_Declare(
+                pico_sdk
+                GIT_REPOSITORY https://github.com/raspberrypi/pico-sdk
+                GIT_TAG master
+        )
+        if (NOT pico_sdk)
+            FetchContent_Populate(pico_sdk)
+            set(PICO_SDK_PATH ${pico_sdk_SOURCE_DIR})
+        endif ()
+        set(FETCHCONTENT_BASE_DIR ${FETCHCONTENT_BASE_DIR_SAVE})
+    else ()
+        message(FATAL_ERROR
+                "PICO_SDK_PATH is not set. Clone pico-sdk and export PICO_SDK_PATH, "
+                "or set PICO_SDK_FETCH_FROM_GIT=ON.")
+    endif ()
+endif ()
+
+get_filename_component(PICO_SDK_PATH "${PICO_SDK_PATH}" REALPATH BASE_DIR "${CMAKE_BINARY_DIR}")
+if (NOT EXISTS ${PICO_SDK_PATH})
+    message(FATAL_ERROR "Directory '${PICO_SDK_PATH}' not found")
+endif ()
+
+set(PICO_SDK_INIT_CMAKE_FILE ${PICO_SDK_PATH}/pico_sdk_init.cmake)
+if (NOT EXISTS ${PICO_SDK_INIT_CMAKE_FILE})
+    message(FATAL_ERROR "pico_sdk_init.cmake not found in ${PICO_SDK_PATH}")
+endif ()
+
+include(${PICO_SDK_INIT_CMAKE_FILE})
--- a/firmware/panel/timer.c
+++ b/firmware/panel/timer.c
@@ -0,0 +1,21 @@
+#include "timer.h"
+
+static struct repeating_timer g_timer;
+static void (*g_callback)(void);
+
+void wizchip_1ms_timer_initialize(void (*callback)(void)) {
+    g_callback = callback;
+    add_repeating_timer_us(-1000, wizchip_1ms_timer_callback, NULL, &g_timer);
+}
+
+bool wizchip_1ms_timer_callback(struct repeating_timer *t) {
+    (void)t;
+    if (g_callback != NULL) {
+        g_callback();
+    }
+    return true;
+}
+
+void wizchip_delay_ms(uint32_t ms) {
+    sleep_ms(ms);
+}
--- a/firmware/panel/timer.h
+++ b/firmware/panel/timer.h
@@ -0,0 +1,10 @@
+#ifndef PANEL_TIMER_H
+#define PANEL_TIMER_H
+
+#include "pico/stdlib.h"
+
+void wizchip_1ms_timer_initialize(void (*callback)(void));
+bool wizchip_1ms_timer_callback(struct repeating_timer *t);
+void wizchip_delay_ms(uint32_t ms);
+
+#endif
--- a/firmware/panel/wizchip_spi.c
+++ b/firmware/panel/wizchip_spi.c
@@ -0,0 +1,121 @@
+/**
+ * W5500 SPI port for portal panel adapter (SPI1, GP9–13).
+ * Derived from WIZnet-PICO-C port/ioLibrary_Driver (BSD-3-Clause).
+ */
+
+#include <stdio.h>
+
+#include "board_config.h"
+#include "wizchip_conf.h"
+#include "wizchip_spi.h"
+
+#include "hardware/gpio.h"
+#include "hardware/spi.h"
+#include "pico/binary_info.h"
+#include "pico/critical_section.h"
+#include "pico/stdlib.h"
+
+static critical_section_t g_wizchip_cri_sec;
+
+static inline void wizchip_select(void) {
+    gpio_put(PIN_CS, 0);
+}
+
+static inline void wizchip_deselect(void) {
+    gpio_put(PIN_CS, 1);
+}
+
+static uint8_t wizchip_read(void) {
+    uint8_t rx = 0;
+    uint8_t tx = 0xff;
+    spi_read_blocking(SPI_PORT, tx, &rx, 1);
+    return rx;
+}
+
+static void wizchip_write(uint8_t tx) {
+    spi_write_blocking(SPI_PORT, &tx, 1);
+}
+
+static void wizchip_critical_section_lock(void) {
+    critical_section_enter_blocking(&g_wizchip_cri_sec);
+}
+
+static void wizchip_critical_section_unlock(void) {
+    critical_section_exit(&g_wizchip_cri_sec);
+}
+
+void wizchip_reset(void) {
+    gpio_init(PIN_RST);
+    gpio_set_dir(PIN_RST, GPIO_OUT);
+    gpio_put(PIN_RST, 0);
+    sleep_ms(100);
+    gpio_put(PIN_RST, 1);
+    sleep_ms(100);
+    bi_decl(bi_1pin_with_name(PIN_RST, "W5500 RESET"));
+}
+
+void wizchip_spi_initialize(void) {
+    spi_init(SPI_PORT, SPI_CLK_MHZ * 1000 * 1000);
+
+    gpio_set_function(PIN_SCK, GPIO_FUNC_SPI);
+    gpio_set_function(PIN_MOSI, GPIO_FUNC_SPI);
+    gpio_set_function(PIN_MISO, GPIO_FUNC_SPI);
+
+    bi_decl(bi_3pins_with_func(PIN_MISO, PIN_MOSI, PIN_SCK, GPIO_FUNC_SPI));
+
+    gpio_init(PIN_CS);
+    gpio_set_dir(PIN_CS, GPIO_OUT);
+    gpio_put(PIN_CS, 1);
+    bi_decl(bi_1pin_with_name(PIN_CS, "W5500 CS"));
+}
+
+void wizchip_cris_initialize(void) {
+    critical_section_init(&g_wizchip_cri_sec);
+    reg_wizchip_cris_cbfunc(wizchip_critical_section_lock, wizchip_critical_section_unlock);
+}
+
+void wizchip_initialize(void) {
+    wizchip_deselect();
+    reg_wizchip_cs_cbfunc(wizchip_select, wizchip_deselect);
+    reg_wizchip_spi_cbfunc(wizchip_read, wizchip_write);
+
+    uint8_t memsize[2][8] = {
+        {2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2},
+        {2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2, 2},
+    };
+
+    if (ctlwizchip(CW_INIT_WIZCHIP, (void *)memsize) == -1) {
+        printf("W5500 init failed\n");
+        return;
+    }
+
+    uint8_t link = PHY_LINK_OFF;
+    do {
+        if (ctlwizchip(CW_GET_PHYLINK, (void *)&link) == -1) {
+            printf("PHY link unknown\n");
+            return;
+        }
+    } while (link == PHY_LINK_OFF);
+}
+
+void wizchip_check(void) {
+    if (getVERSIONR() != 0x04) {
+        printf("W5500 version mismatch: 0x%02x\n", getVERSIONR());
+        while (1) {
+            tight_loop_contents();
+        }
+    }
+}
+
+void network_initialize(wiz_NetInfo net_info) {
+    ctlnetwork(CN_SET_NETINFO, (void *)&net_info);
+}
+
+void print_network_information(wiz_NetInfo net_info) {
+    ctlnetwork(CN_GET_NETINFO, (void *)&net_info);
+    printf("MAC %02X:%02X:%02X:%02X:%02X:%02X\n",
+           net_info.mac[0], net_info.mac[1], net_info.mac[2],
+           net_info.mac[3], net_info.mac[4], net_info.mac[5]);
+    printf("IP %d.%d.%d.%d\n",
+           net_info.ip[0], net_info.ip[1], net_info.ip[2], net_info.ip[3]);
+}
--- a/firmware/panel/wizchip_spi.h
+++ b/firmware/panel/wizchip_spi.h
@@ -0,0 +1,14 @@
+#ifndef WIZCHIP_SPI_H
+#define WIZCHIP_SPI_H
+
+#include "wizchip_conf.h"
+
+void wizchip_spi_initialize(void);
+void wizchip_cris_initialize(void);
+void wizchip_reset(void);
+void wizchip_initialize(void);
+void wizchip_check(void);
+void network_initialize(wiz_NetInfo net_info);
+void print_network_information(wiz_NetInfo net_info);
+
+#endif
--- a/firmware/panel/ws2812_led.cpp
+++ b/firmware/panel/ws2812_led.cpp
@@ -0,0 +1,39 @@
+/* C API wrapper around ForsakenNGS/Pico_WS2812 */
+
+#include "ws2812_led.h"
+
+#include "WS2812.hpp"
+
+#include "hardware/pio.h"
+#include "pico/stdlib.h"
+
+static WS2812 *s_strip;
+
+extern "C" void ws2812_init(unsigned int pin, unsigned int num_leds) {
+    uint sm = pio_claim_unused_sm(pio0, true);
+    s_strip = new WS2812(pin, num_leds, pio0, sm, WS2812::FORMAT_GRB);
+}
+
+extern "C" void ws2812_set_rgb(const uint8_t *rgb, unsigned int count) {
+    if (s_strip == nullptr || rgb == nullptr) {
+        return;
+    }
+    for (unsigned int i = 0; i < count; i++) {
+        s_strip->setPixelColor(i, rgb[i * 3 + 0], rgb[i * 3 + 1], rgb[i * 3 + 2]);
+    }
+}
+
+extern "C" void ws2812_fill(uint8_t r, uint8_t g, uint8_t b) {
+    if (s_strip == nullptr) {
+        return;
+    }
+    s_strip->fill(WS2812::RGB(r, g, b));
+}
+
+extern "C" void ws2812_show(void) {
+    if (s_strip == nullptr) {
+        return;
+    }
+    s_strip->show();
+    sleep_us(300);
+}
--- a/firmware/panel/ws2812_led.h
+++ b/firmware/panel/ws2812_led.h
@@ -0,0 +1,19 @@
+#ifndef WS2812_LED_H
+#define WS2812_LED_H
+
+#include <stdint.h>
+
+#ifdef __cplusplus
+extern "C" {
+#endif
+
+void ws2812_init(unsigned int pin, unsigned int num_leds);
+void ws2812_set_rgb(const uint8_t *rgb, unsigned int count);
+void ws2812_fill(uint8_t r, uint8_t g, uint8_t b);
+void ws2812_show(void);
+
+#ifdef __cplusplus
+}
+#endif
+
+#endif
--- a/leds/init.py
+++ b/leds/init.py
@@ -0,0 +1,33 @@
+from leds.animations import ANIMATIONS, DEFAULT_FPS
+from leds.array_config import (
+    MATRIX_HEIGHT,
+    MATRIX_PIXELS,
+    MATRIX_ROWS_PER_STRIP,
+    MATRIX_WIDTH,
+)
+from leds.config import StripConfig, default_dual_strip_configs, default_strip_config, pi5_setup_hint
+from leds.detect import board_family, board_model, pio_available, supports_ws281x
+from leds.colors import wheel
+from leds.matrix import LedMatrix
+from leds.strip import LedStrip
+from leds.strips import LedStrips
+
+__all__ = [
+    "ANIMATIONS",
+    "DEFAULT_FPS",
+    "LedMatrix",
+    "LedStrip",
+    "LedStrips",
+    "MATRIX_HEIGHT",
+    "MATRIX_PIXELS",
+    "MATRIX_ROWS_PER_STRIP",
+    "MATRIX_WIDTH",
+    "StripConfig",
+    "board_family",
+    "board_model",
+    "default_dual_strip_configs",
+    "default_strip_config",
+    "pio_available",
+    "pi5_setup_hint",
+    "supports_ws281x",
+]
--- a/leds/animations.py
+++ b/leds/animations.py
@@ -0,0 +1,330 @@
+"""Animations for LedMatrix and LedStrip."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import math
+import random
+from typing import Callable, Union
+
+from leds.colors import dim, heat_color, hsv_to_rgb, wheel
+from leds.matrix import LedMatrix
+from leds.strip import LedStrip
+
+Surface = Union[LedMatrix, LedStrip]
+DrawFn = Callable[[Surface, int], None]
+
+
+def _is_matrix(surface: Surface) -> bool:
+    return hasattr(surface, "width") and hasattr(surface, "height")
+
+
+def _size(surface: Surface) -> tuple[int, int]:
+    if _is_matrix(surface):
+        return surface.width, surface.height
+    n = len(surface)
+    return n, 1
+
+
+def _set_index(surface: Surface, x: int, y: int, color: tuple[int, int, int]) -> None:
+    if isinstance(surface, LedStrip):
+        w, _ = _size(surface)
+        surface[y * w + x] = color
+    else:
+        surface[x, y] = color
+
+
+def _each_pixel(surface: Surface):
+    if _is_matrix(surface):
+        w, h = surface.width, surface.height
+        for y in range(h):
+            for x in range(w):
+                yield x, y
+    else:
+        for i in range(len(surface)):
+            yield i, 0
+
+
+def rainbow_scroll(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    if isinstance(surface, LedStrip):
+        n = len(surface)
+        for i in range(n):
+            surface[i] = wheel(frame * 2 + i * 256 // max(n, 1))
+        return
+
+    w, h = surface.width, surface.height
+    strip = getattr(surface, "strip", None)
+    if strip is not None and hasattr(surface, "index_at"):
+        for y in range(h):
+            for x in range(w):
+                strip[surface.index_at(x, y)] = wheel(x * 3 + y * 8 + frame * 2)
+    else:
+        for y in range(h):
+            for x in range(w):
+                surface[x, y] = wheel(x * 3 + y * 8 + frame * 2)
+
+
+def plasma(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    w, h = _size(surface)
+    t = frame * 0.08
+    for y in range(h):
+        for x in range(w):
+            v = (
+                math.sin(x * 0.15 + t)
+                + math.sin(y * 0.2 - t * 1.3)
+                + math.sin((x + y) * 0.1 + t * 0.7)
+            ) / 3.0
+            _set_index(surface, x, y, hsv_to_rgb((v + 1) / 2, 1.0, 1.0))
+
+
+def sine_wave(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    w, h = _size(surface)
+    for y in range(h):
+        for x in range(w):
+            wave = math.sin(x * 0.25 + frame * 0.15) * math.cos(y * 0.35 - frame * 0.1)
+            _set_index(surface, x, y, dim((0, 80, 200), (wave + 1) / 2))
+
+
+def scanner(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    w, h = _size(surface)
+    pos = frame % max(w * 2 - 2, 1)
+    if pos >= w:
+        pos = w * 2 - 2 - pos
+    if _is_matrix(surface):
+        surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+    else:
+        surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+    for y in range(h):
+        for dx in range(-3, 4):
+            x = pos + dx
+            if 0 <= x < w:
+                _set_index(surface, x, y, dim((255, 0, 0), 1.0 - abs(dx) / 4.0))
+
+
+def comet(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    w, h = _size(surface)
+    head = frame % (w + 12)
+    if _is_matrix(surface):
+        surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+    else:
+        surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+    for y in range(h):
+        for i in range(12):
+            x = head - i
+            if 0 <= x < w:
+                _set_index(surface, x, y, dim(wheel(frame * 3 + i * 10), (12 - i) / 12))
+
+
+def pulse(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    level = (math.sin(frame * 0.12) + 1) / 2
+    color = dim((120, 0, 180), 0.15 + level * 0.85)
+    if _is_matrix(surface):
+        surface.fill(color)
+    else:
+        surface.fill(color)
+
+
+def sparkle(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    for x, y in _each_pixel(surface):
+        if _is_matrix(surface):
+            r, g, b = surface[x, y]
+        else:
+            r, g, b = surface[x]
+        c = (r >> 2, g >> 2, b >> 2)
+        _set_index(surface, x, y, c)
+    w, h = _size(surface)
+    for _ in range(6):
+        _set_index(surface, random.randint(0, w - 1), random.randint(0, h - 1), (220, 220, 255))
+
+
+def fire(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    w, h = _size(surface)
+    size = w * h
+    if not hasattr(fire, "_heat") or len(fire._heat) != size:
+        fire._heat = [0.0] * size
+
+    heat: list[float] = fire._heat
+    for x in range(w):
+        heat[(h - 1) * w + x] = random.random() * 0.5 + 0.5
+
+    for y in range(h - 2, -1, -1):
+        for x in range(w):
+            below = (y + 1) * w + x
+            left = below - 1 if x > 0 else below
+            right = below + 1 if x < w - 1 else below
+            decay = random.uniform(0.0, 0.18)
+            heat[y * w + x] = max(0.0, (heat[left] + heat[below] + heat[right]) / 3 - decay)
+
+    for y in range(h):
+        for x in range(w):
+            _set_index(surface, x, y, heat_color(heat[y * w + x]))
+
+
+def rain(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    w, h = _size(surface)
+    if not hasattr(rain, "_drops"):
+        rain._drops = [
+            {"x": random.randint(0, w - 1), "y": random.randint(-h, 0), "speed": random.randint(1, 3)}
+            for _ in range(max(w // 2, 1))
+        ]
+
+    if _is_matrix(surface):
+        surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+    else:
+        surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+
+    for drop in rain._drops:
+        drop["y"] += drop["speed"]
+        if drop["y"] >= h:
+            drop["y"] = random.randint(-3, -1)
+            drop["x"] = random.randint(0, w - 1)
+            drop["speed"] = random.randint(1, 3)
+        x, y = drop["x"], int(drop["y"])
+        if 0 <= y < h:
+            _set_index(surface, x, y, (0, 220, 80))
+            if y > 0:
+                _set_index(surface, x, y - 1, dim((0, 220, 80), 0.4))
+
+
+def stripes(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    w, h = _size(surface)
+    offset = frame % max(w, 1)
+    for y in range(h):
+        for x in range(w):
+            band = (x + offset) // 3 % 3
+            if band == 0:
+                _set_index(surface, x, y, (200, 0, 0))
+            elif band == 1:
+                _set_index(surface, x, y, (0, 200, 0))
+            else:
+                _set_index(surface, x, y, (0, 0, 200))
+
+
+def bounce(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    w, h = _size(surface)
+    if _is_matrix(surface):
+        surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+    else:
+        surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+    t = frame * 0.2
+    x = int((math.sin(t) + 1) / 2 * (w - 1))
+    y = int((math.cos(t * 1.3) + 1) / 2 * (h - 1))
+    for dy in range(-1, 2):
+        for dx in range(-1, 2):
+            px, py = x + dx, y + dy
+            if 0 <= px < w and 0 <= py < h:
+                _set_index(surface, px, py, wheel(frame * 5))
+
+
+def _iter_line(x0: int, y0: int, x1: int, y1: int):
+    """Yield pixel coordinates along a Bresenham line."""
+    dx = abs(x1 - x0)
+    dy = -abs(y1 - y0)
+    sx = 1 if x0 < x1 else -1
+    sy = 1 if y0 < y1 else -1
+    err = dx + dy
+    x, y = x0, y0
+    while True:
+        yield x, y
+        if x == x1 and y == y1:
+            break
+        e2 = 2 * err
+        if e2 >= dy:
+            err += dy
+            x += sx
+        if e2 <= dx:
+            err += dx
+            y += sy
+
+
+def rolling(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    """Full-height band rolling left to right across the panel."""
+    w, h = _size(surface)
+    tail = 10
+    head = frame % (w + tail)
+    if _is_matrix(surface):
+        surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+    else:
+        surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+    for y in range(h):
+        hue_shift = y * 18 + frame * 3
+        for i in range(tail):
+            x = head - i
+            if 0 <= x < w:
+                bright = (tail - i) / tail
+                _set_index(surface, x, y, dim(wheel(hue_shift + i * 8), bright))
+
+
+def spin_line(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    """Line from panel center spinning like a radar sweep."""
+    w, h = _size(surface)
+    if _is_matrix(surface):
+        surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+    else:
+        surface.fill((0, 0, 0))
+
+    if not _is_matrix(surface):
+        n = len(surface)
+        pos = int((frame * 3) % max(n, 1))
+        for i in range(8):
+            idx = (pos - i) % n
+            surface[idx] = dim(wheel(frame * 5 + i * 20), (8 - i) / 8)
+        return
+
+    cx = (w - 1) / 2.0
+    cy = (h - 1) / 2.0
+    angle = frame * 0.14
+    reach = max(w, h) * 1.2
+    x1 = int(cx + math.cos(angle) * reach)
+    y1 = int(cy + math.sin(angle) * reach)
+    color = wheel(frame * 4)
+
+    for x, y in _iter_line(int(cx), int(cy), x1, y1):
+        if 0 <= x < w and 0 <= y < h:
+            _set_index(surface, x, y, color)
+
+    hub_x, hub_y = int(cx), int(cy)
+    if 0 <= hub_x < w and 0 <= hub_y < h:
+        _set_index(surface, hub_x, hub_y, (255, 255, 255))
+
+
+def solid(surface: Surface, frame: int) -> None:
+    colors = [(255, 0, 0), (0, 255, 0), (0, 0, 255)]
+    if _is_matrix(surface):
+        surface.fill(colors[frame % 3])
+    else:
+        surface.fill(colors[frame % 3])
+
+
+ANIMATIONS: dict[str, DrawFn] = {
+    "solid": solid,
+    "rainbow": rainbow_scroll,
+    "plasma": plasma,
+    "wave": sine_wave,
+    "scanner": scanner,
+    "comet": comet,
+    "pulse": pulse,
+    "sparkle": sparkle,
+    "fire": fire,
+    "rain": rain,
+    "stripes": stripes,
+    "bounce": bounce,
+    "rolling": rolling,
+    "spin_line": spin_line,
+}
+
+DEFAULT_FPS: dict[str, float] = {
+    "solid": 1,
+    "rainbow": 30,
+    "plasma": 25,
+    "wave": 25,
+    "scanner": 35,
+    "comet": 30,
+    "pulse": 30,
+    "sparkle": 40,
+    "fire": 35,
+    "rain": 30,
+    "stripes": 25,
+    "bounce": 35,
+    "rolling": 30,
+    "spin_line": 28,
+}
--- a/leds/array_config.py
+++ b/leds/array_config.py
@@ -0,0 +1,69 @@
+"""LED matrix layout defaults."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import os
+
+MATRIX_WIDTH = 45
+MATRIX_HEIGHT = 9
+MATRIX_PIXELS = MATRIX_WIDTH * MATRIX_HEIGHT  # 405
+
+# Per-panel width (height is always 9 rows). Edit to match your hardware.
+# Panel 4 may still be 38 or 39 — run: panel_sync_test.py --test width --panel-index 4
+PANEL_HEIGHT = 9
+PANEL_WIDTH_BY_INDEX: dict[int, int] = {
+    0: 39,
+    1: 45,
+    2: 45,
+    3: 45,
+    4: 39,
+}
+DEFAULT_PANEL_WIDTH = 45
+PANEL_COUNT = 5
+
+# SPI data line: bus 0 = GPIO 10 (MOSI), bus 1 = GPIO 20 (SPI1 MOSI)
+MATRIX_SPI_BUS = 0
+MATRIX_SPI_DEVICE = 0
+
+# One continuous chain on a single data pin; rows all run left → right.
+MATRIX_ROWS_PER_STRIP = None
+MATRIX_SERPENTINE = "none"  # use "rows" for zigzag / serpentine wiring
+
+# Set True if DIN enters at the bottom row instead of the top.
+MATRIX_FLIP_Y = False
+
+MATRIX_BRIGHTNESS = 0.25
+
+# LED wire order for direct SPI on Pi (not used for Pico UDP — firmware packs GRB).
+WIRE_ORDER = os.environ.get("PORTAL_WIRE_ORDER", "grb").lower()
+
+
+def panel_width(panel_index: int) -> int:
+    return PANEL_WIDTH_BY_INDEX.get(panel_index, DEFAULT_PANEL_WIDTH)
+
+
+def panel_layout(panel_index: int) -> tuple[int, int]:
+    return panel_width(panel_index), PANEL_HEIGHT
+
+
+def panel_pixel_count(panel_index: int) -> int:
+    w, h = panel_layout(panel_index)
+    return w * h
+
+
+def matrix_pixel_index(
+    x: int,
+    y: int,
+    width: int = MATRIX_WIDTH,
+    height: int = MATRIX_HEIGHT,
+    *,
+    serpentine: str = MATRIX_SERPENTINE,
+    flip_y: bool = MATRIX_FLIP_Y,
+) -> int:
+    """Map (x, y) to strip index. Default: every row left → right."""
+    if flip_y:
+        y = height - 1 - y
+    col = x
+    if serpentine == "rows" and y % 2 == 1:
+        col = width - 1 - x
+    return y * width + col
--- a/leds/backends/init.py
+++ b/leds/backends/init.py
@@ -0,0 +1 @@
+
--- a/leds/backends/pio.py
+++ b/leds/backends/pio.py
@@ -0,0 +1,58 @@
+"""WS2812 via Pi 5 kernel ws2812-pio driver (/dev/ledsN)."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from pathlib import Path
+
+
+class PioBackend:
+    def __init__(self, led_count: int, *, device: str = "/dev/leds0") -> None:
+        self._led_count = led_count
+        self._device = device
+        self._path = Path(device)
+        if not self._path.exists():
+            raise FileNotFoundError(
+                f"{device} not found — enable ws2812-pio in /boot/firmware/config.txt "
+                "and reboot. Run: pipenv run python examples/setup_pi5_leds.py"
+            )
+
+    @property
+    def led_count(self) -> int:
+        return self._led_count
+
+    @property
+    def device(self) -> str:
+        return self._device
+
+    def write_grb(self, grb_bytes: bytes) -> None:
+        if len(grb_bytes) != self._led_count * 3:
+            raise ValueError(
+                f"expected {self._led_count * 3} bytes, got {len(grb_bytes)}"
+            )
+
+        # Kernel driver expects RGBW uint32 little-endian per pixel (W=0 for RGB).
+        frame = bytearray(self._led_count * 4)
+        for i in range(self._led_count):
+            base = i * 3
+            g, r, b = grb_bytes[base], grb_bytes[base + 1], grb_bytes[base + 2]
+            offset = i * 4
+            frame[offset] = r
+            frame[offset + 1] = g
+            frame[offset + 2] = b
+            frame[offset + 3] = 0
+
+        with open(self._path, "wb") as dev:
+            dev.write(frame)
+
+    def clear(self) -> None:
+        with open(self._path, "wb") as dev:
+            dev.write(b"\x00" * (self._led_count * 4))
+
+    def close(self) -> None:
+        self.clear()
+
+    def __enter__(self) -> PioBackend:
+        return self
+
+    def __exit__(self, *_exc) -> None:
+        self.close()
--- a/leds/backends/spi.py
+++ b/leds/backends/spi.py
@@ -0,0 +1,81 @@
+"""WS2812 over SPI — works on Pi 5, 4, and Zero when SPI is enabled."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from array import array
+
+try:
+    from spidev import SpiDev
+except ImportError as exc:  # pragma: no cover - import guard
+    SpiDev = None
+    _SPI_IMPORT_ERROR = exc
+else:
+    _SPI_IMPORT_ERROR = None
+
+# WS2812 bit patterns via SPI, from https://github.com/mattaw/ws2812_spi_python
+_LED_ZERO = 0b1100_0000
+_LED_ONE = 0b1111_1100
+_PREAMBLE = 42
+
+
+class SpiBackend:
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        led_count: int,
+        *,
+        spi_bus: int = 0,
+        spi_device: int = 0,
+        max_speed_hz: int = 6_500_000,
+    ) -> None:
+        if SpiDev is None:
+            raise ImportError(
+                "spidev is required for the SPI backend; install portal requirements"
+            ) from _SPI_IMPORT_ERROR
+
+        self._led_count = led_count
+        self._device = SpiDev()
+        self._device.open(spi_bus, spi_device)
+        self._device.max_speed_hz = max_speed_hz
+        self._device.mode = 0b00
+        self._device.lsbfirst = False
+
+        frame_len = _PREAMBLE + led_count * 24
+        self._frame = array("B", [0] * frame_len)
+        self._clear_frame = array("B", [0] * frame_len)
+        for i in range(_PREAMBLE, frame_len):
+            self._clear_frame[i] = _LED_ZERO
+
+    @property
+    def led_count(self) -> int:
+        return self._led_count
+
+    def write_grb(self, grb_bytes: bytes) -> None:
+        if len(grb_bytes) != self._led_count * 3:
+            raise ValueError(
+                f"expected {self._led_count * 3} bytes, got {len(grb_bytes)}"
+            )
+
+        out = self._frame
+        pos = _PREAMBLE
+        for value in grb_bytes:
+            for bit in (128, 64, 32, 16, 8, 4, 2, 1):
+                out[pos] = _LED_ONE if value & bit else _LED_ZERO
+                pos += 1
+
+        # writebytes2 handles large frames (400+ LEDs); writebytes is capped at 4 KiB.
+        self._device.writebytes2(out)
+
+    def clear(self) -> None:
+        self._device.writebytes2(self._clear_frame)
+
+    def close(self) -> None:
+        try:
+            self.clear()
+        finally:
+            self._device.close()
+
+    def __enter__(self) -> SpiBackend:
+        return self
+
+    def __exit__(self, *_exc) -> None:
+        self.close()
--- a/leds/backends/ws281x.py
+++ b/leds/backends/ws281x.py
@@ -0,0 +1,73 @@
+"""WS2812 via PWM/DMA — Pi 4 and Zero only (not Pi 5)."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+try:
+    from rpi_ws281x import PixelStrip, ws
+except ImportError as exc:  # pragma: no cover - import guard
+    PixelStrip = None
+    ws = None
+    _WS281X_IMPORT_ERROR = exc
+else:
+    _WS281X_IMPORT_ERROR = None
+
+
+class Ws281xBackend:
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        led_count: int,
+        *,
+        pin: int = 18,
+        freq_hz: int = 800_000,
+        dma: int = 10,
+        invert: bool = False,
+        channel: int = 0,
+    ) -> None:
+        if PixelStrip is None:
+            raise ImportError(
+                "rpi-ws281x is required for the ws281x backend; install portal requirements"
+            ) from _WS281X_IMPORT_ERROR
+
+        self._led_count = led_count
+        self._strip = PixelStrip(
+            led_count,
+            pin,
+            freq_hz,
+            dma,
+            invert,
+            255,
+            channel,
+            strip_type=ws.WS2811_STRIP_GRB,
+        )
+        self._strip.begin()
+
+    @property
+    def led_count(self) -> int:
+        return self._led_count
+
+    def write_grb(self, grb_bytes: bytes) -> None:
+        if len(grb_bytes) != self._led_count * 3:
+            raise ValueError(
+                f"expected {self._led_count * 3} bytes, got {len(grb_bytes)}"
+            )
+
+        strip = self._strip
+        for i in range(self._led_count):
+            base = i * 3
+            g, r, b = grb_bytes[base], grb_bytes[base + 1], grb_bytes[base + 2]
+            strip.setPixelColor(i, (r << 16) | (g << 8) | b)
+        strip.show()
+
+    def clear(self) -> None:
+        for i in range(self._led_count):
+            self._strip.setPixelColor(i, 0)
+        self._strip.show()
+
+    def close(self) -> None:
+        self.clear()
+
+    def __enter__(self) -> Ws281xBackend:
+        return self
+
+    def __exit__(self, *_exc) -> None:
+        self.close()
--- a/leds/colors.py
+++ b/leds/colors.py
@@ -0,0 +1,68 @@
+"""Color helpers for LED animations."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import math
+from typing import Tuple
+
+RGB = Tuple[int, int, int]
+
+
+def wheel(pos: int) -> RGB:
+    pos = pos % 256
+    if pos < 85:
+        return (255 - pos * 3, pos * 3, 0)
+    if pos < 170:
+        pos -= 85
+        return (0, 255 - pos * 3, pos * 3)
+    pos -= 170
+    return (pos * 3, 0, 255 - pos * 3)
+
+
+def heat_color(temperature: float) -> RGB:
+    """Map 0.0–1.0 heat to black → red → yellow → white."""
+    t = max(0.0, min(1.0, temperature))
+    if t < 0.25:
+        return (int(t * 4 * 255), 0, 0)
+    if t < 0.5:
+        return (255, int((t - 0.25) * 4 * 255), 0)
+    if t < 0.75:
+        return (255, 255, int((t - 0.5) * 4 * 255))
+    return (255, 255, 255)
+
+
+def hsv_to_rgb(h: float, s: float, v: float) -> RGB:
+    h = h % 1.0
+    i = int(h * 6)
+    f = h * 6 - i
+    p = int(v * (1 - s) * 255)
+    q = int(v * (1 - f * s) * 255)
+    t = int(v * (1 - (1 - f) * s) * 255)
+    v255 = int(v * 255)
+    match i % 6:
+        case 0:
+            return (v255, t, p)
+        case 1:
+            return (q, v255, p)
+        case 2:
+            return (p, v255, t)
+        case 3:
+            return (p, q, v255)
+        case 4:
+            return (t, p, v255)
+        case _:
+            return (v255, p, q)
+
+
+def dim(color: RGB, scale: float) -> RGB:
+    scale = max(0.0, min(1.0, scale))
+    return (int(color[0] * scale), int(color[1] * scale), int(color[2] * scale))
+
+
+def blend(a: RGB, b: RGB, t: float) -> RGB:
+    t = max(0.0, min(1.0, t))
+    return (
+        int(a[0] + (b[0] - a[0]) * t),
+        int(a[1] + (b[1] - a[1]) * t),
+        int(a[2] + (b[2] - a[2]) * t),
+    )
--- a/leds/config.py
+++ b/leds/config.py
@@ -0,0 +1,151 @@
+"""Default wiring for one or two WS2812 strips per board."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from dataclasses import dataclass
+from typing import Literal
+
+from leds.detect import board_family, pio_available, pio_device, pi5_second_spi_bus
+
+try:
+    from leds.array_config import MATRIX_SPI_BUS, MATRIX_SPI_DEVICE
+except ImportError:
+    MATRIX_SPI_BUS = 0
+    MATRIX_SPI_DEVICE = 0
+
+BackendName = Literal["auto", "pio", "spi", "ws281x"]
+
+
+@dataclass
+class StripConfig:
+    count: int
+    backend: BackendName = "auto"
+    pin: int = 18
+    channel: int = 0
+    device: str = "/dev/leds0"
+    spi_bus: int = 0
+    spi_device: int = 0
+    brightness: float = 1.0
+
+
+def spi_strip_config(
+    count: int,
+    *,
+    spi_bus: int = MATRIX_SPI_BUS,
+    spi_device: int = MATRIX_SPI_DEVICE,
+    brightness: float = 1.0,
+) -> StripConfig:
+    return StripConfig(
+        count,
+        backend="spi",
+        spi_bus=spi_bus,
+        spi_device=spi_device,
+        brightness=brightness,
+    )
+
+
+def default_strip_config(count: int, *, brightness: float = 1.0) -> StripConfig:
+    family = board_family()
+    if family == "pi5":
+        if pio_available():
+            return StripConfig(
+                count,
+                backend="pio",
+                pin=18,
+                device=pio_device(0) or "/dev/leds0",
+                brightness=brightness,
+            )
+        return spi_strip_config(count, brightness=brightness)
+    return StripConfig(
+        count,
+        backend="ws281x",
+        pin=18,
+        channel=0,
+        brightness=brightness,
+    )
+
+
+def default_dual_strip_configs(
+    count0: int,
+    count1: int,
+    *,
+    brightness: float = 1.0,
+) -> tuple[StripConfig, StripConfig]:
+    """
+    Suggested wiring for two independent strips:
+
+    Pi 5 (SPI — requires dtoverlay=spi1-3cs under [all], not [cm5]):
+      strip 0 → GPIO 10 (SPI0 MOSI), /dev/spidev0.0
+      strip 1 → GPIO 20 (SPI1 MOSI), /dev/spidev1.0
+
+    Pi 5 (ws2812-pio — alternative):
+      strip 0 → GPIO 18, /dev/leds0
+      strip 1 → GPIO 13, /dev/leds1
+
+    Pi 4 / Zero:
+      strip 0 → GPIO 18 (PWM channel 0)
+      strip 1 → GPIO 13 (PWM channel 1)
+    """
+    family = board_family()
+    if family == "pi5":
+        if pio_available():
+            return (
+                StripConfig(
+                    count0,
+                    backend="pio",
+                    pin=18,
+                    device=pio_device(0) or "/dev/leds0",
+                    brightness=brightness,
+                ),
+                StripConfig(
+                    count1,
+                    backend="pio",
+                    pin=13,
+                    device=pio_device(1) or "/dev/leds1",
+                    brightness=brightness,
+                ),
+            )
+        return (
+            StripConfig(
+                count0,
+                backend="spi",
+                spi_bus=0,
+                spi_device=0,
+                brightness=brightness,
+            ),
+            StripConfig(
+                count1,
+                backend="spi",
+                spi_bus=pi5_second_spi_bus(),
+                spi_device=0,
+                brightness=brightness,
+            ),
+        )
+
+    return (
+        StripConfig(
+            count0,
+            backend="ws281x",
+            pin=18,
+            channel=0,
+            brightness=brightness,
+        ),
+        StripConfig(
+            count1,
+            backend="ws281x",
+            pin=13,
+            channel=1,
+            brightness=brightness,
+        ),
+    )
+
+
+def pi5_setup_hint(count0: int, count1: int) -> str:
+    return (
+        "Pi 5 second SPI bus not found. Add under [all] in /boot/firmware/config.txt:\n"
+        "  dtparam=spi=on\n"
+        "  dtoverlay=spi1-3cs\n"
+        "Remove dtparam=spi1=on (ignored on Pi 5). Do not put the overlay under [cm5]\n"
+        "unless you have a Compute Module 5.\n"
+        "Wire strip 0 DIN → GPIO 10, strip 1 DIN → GPIO 20, then reboot."
+    )
--- a/leds/detect.py
+++ b/leds/detect.py
@@ -0,0 +1,64 @@
+"""Raspberry Pi model detection for choosing a WS2812 backend."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from functools import lru_cache
+
+
+@lru_cache(maxsize=1)
+def board_model() -> str:
+    try:
+        with open("/proc/device-tree/model", "rb") as f:
+            return f.read().rstrip(b"\x00").decode("ascii")
+    except OSError:
+        return "Unknown"
+
+
+@lru_cache(maxsize=1)
+def board_family() -> str:
+    model = board_model().lower()
+    if "raspberry pi 5" in model:
+        return "pi5"
+    if "raspberry pi 4" in model:
+        return "pi4"
+    if "zero 2" in model:
+        return "pi_zero2"
+    if "zero" in model:
+        return "pi_zero"
+    if "raspberry pi 3" in model:
+        return "pi3"
+    return "unknown"
+
+
+def supports_ws281x() -> bool:
+    return board_family() != "pi5"
+
+
+def pio_device(index: int = 0) -> str | None:
+    from pathlib import Path
+
+    path = Path(f"/dev/leds{index}")
+    return str(path) if path.exists() else None
+
+
+def pio_available() -> bool:
+    return pio_device(0) is not None
+
+
+def pi5_second_spi_bus() -> int:
+    """
+    Second strip on Pi 5 SPI — prefer spi1 from dtoverlay=spi1-3cs
+    (/dev/spidev1.0, MOSI on GPIO 20). Falls back to built-in spidev10.0.
+    """
+    from pathlib import Path
+
+    if Path("/dev/spidev1.0").exists():
+        return 1
+    if Path("/dev/spidev10.0").exists():
+        return 10
+    raise RuntimeError(
+        "No second SPI device found. Add to /boot/firmware/config.txt under [all]:\n"
+        "  dtoverlay=spi1-3cs\n"
+        "Then reboot. Wire strip 1 DIN to GPIO 20 (SPI1 MOSI).\n"
+        "Note: dtparam=spi1=on is ignored on Pi 5; use the overlay in [all], not [cm5]."
+    )
--- a/leds/matrix.py
+++ b/leds/matrix.py
@@ -0,0 +1,168 @@
+"""2D WS2812 matrix mapped onto one or two strips."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from typing import Literal, Sequence, Tuple
+
+from leds.array_config import (
+    MATRIX_BRIGHTNESS,
+    MATRIX_HEIGHT,
+    MATRIX_ROWS_PER_STRIP,
+    MATRIX_SERPENTINE,
+    MATRIX_WIDTH,
+)
+from leds.config import StripConfig, default_dual_strip_configs
+from leds.strip import Color, LedStrip, _normalize_color
+from leds.strips import LedStrips
+
+Serpentine = Literal["rows", "none"]
+
+
+class LedMatrix:
+    """
+    45×9 matrix on one WS2812 data line (405 LEDs).
+
+    Any size works: LedMatrix(width=50, height=12) → 600 LEDs, etc.
+    """
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        width: int = MATRIX_WIDTH,
+        height: int = MATRIX_HEIGHT,
+        *,
+        rows_per_strip: Sequence[int] | None = MATRIX_ROWS_PER_STRIP,
+        serpentine: Serpentine = MATRIX_SERPENTINE,
+        brightness: float = MATRIX_BRIGHTNESS,
+        config0: StripConfig | None = None,
+        config1: StripConfig | None = None,
+    ) -> None:
+        if width < 1 or height < 1:
+            raise ValueError("width and height must be positive")
+
+        self.width = width
+        self.height = height
+        self.serpentine = serpentine
+        self._strip: LedStrip | None = None
+        self._strips: LedStrips | None = None
+
+        if rows_per_strip is None:
+            self._rows_per_strip = (height,)
+            count0 = width * height
+            if config0 is None:
+                from leds.config import default_strip_config
+
+                config0 = default_strip_config(count0, brightness=brightness)
+            self._strip = LedStrip(
+                count0,
+                backend=config0.backend,
+                pin=config0.pin,
+                channel=config0.channel,
+                device=config0.device,
+                brightness=config0.brightness,
+                spi_bus=config0.spi_bus,
+                spi_device=config0.spi_device,
+            )
+        else:
+            total_rows = sum(rows_per_strip)
+            if total_rows != height:
+                raise ValueError(
+                    f"rows_per_strip sums to {total_rows}, expected {height}"
+                )
+            counts = [width * r for r in rows_per_strip]
+            self._rows_per_strip = tuple(rows_per_strip)
+            if config0 is None or config1 is None:
+                defaults = default_dual_strip_configs(
+                    counts[0], counts[1], brightness=brightness
+                )
+                config0 = config0 or defaults[0]
+                config1 = config1 or defaults[1]
+            self._strips = LedStrips(
+                counts[0],
+                counts[1],
+                config0=config0,
+                config1=config1,
+                brightness=brightness,
+            )
+
+    def _locate(self, x: int, y: int) -> Tuple[int, int]:
+        if not (0 <= x < self.width and 0 <= y < self.height):
+            raise IndexError(f"({x}, {y}) out of range for {self.width}×{self.height}")
+
+        row_offset = 0
+        for strip_id, num_rows in enumerate(self._rows_per_strip):
+            if y < row_offset + num_rows:
+                local_y = y - row_offset
+                col = x
+                if self.serpentine == "rows" and y % 2 == 1:
+                    col = self.width - 1 - x
+                return strip_id, local_y * self.width + col
+            row_offset += num_rows
+
+        raise IndexError(f"({x}, {y}) out of range")
+
+    def index_at(self, x: int, y: int) -> int:
+        """Strip index for (x, y) on a single-strip matrix."""
+        strip_id, index = self._locate(x, y)
+        if strip_id != 0 or self._strip is None:
+            raise RuntimeError("index_at requires a single-strip matrix")
+        return index
+
+    @property
+    def strip(self) -> LedStrip | None:
+        return self._strip
+
+    def __getitem__(self, pos: Tuple[int, int]) -> Tuple[int, int, int]:
+        x, y = pos
+        strip_id, index = self._locate(x, y)
+        if self._strip is not None:
+            return self._strip[index]
+        assert self._strips is not None
+        return self._strips[strip_id][index]
+
+    def __setitem__(self, pos: Tuple[int, int], color: Color) -> None:
+        x, y = pos
+        strip_id, index = self._locate(x, y)
+        rgb = _normalize_color(color)
+        if self._strip is not None:
+            self._strip[index] = rgb
+        else:
+            assert self._strips is not None
+            self._strips[strip_id][index] = rgb
+
+    def set_pixel(self, x: int, y: int, color: Color) -> None:
+        self[x, y] = color
+
+    def fill(self, color: Color) -> None:
+        rgb = _normalize_color(color)
+        if self._strip is not None:
+            self._strip.fill(rgb)
+        else:
+            assert self._strips is not None
+            self._strips[0].fill(rgb)
+            self._strips[1].fill(rgb)
+
+    def show(self) -> None:
+        if self._strip is not None:
+            self._strip.show()
+        else:
+            assert self._strips is not None
+            self._strips.show()
+
+    def clear(self) -> None:
+        if self._strip is not None:
+            self._strip.clear()
+        else:
+            assert self._strips is not None
+            self._strips.clear()
+
+    def close(self) -> None:
+        if self._strip is not None:
+            self._strip.close()
+        elif self._strips is not None:
+            self._strips.close()
+
+    def __enter__(self) -> LedMatrix:
+        return self
+
+    def __exit__(self, *_exc) -> None:
+        self.close()
--- a/leds/panel_udp.py
+++ b/leds/panel_udp.py
@@ -0,0 +1,432 @@
+"""UDP helpers for Pico panel firmware."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+import argparse
+import os
+import socket
+import time
+from dataclasses import dataclass
+from typing import Iterable, Sequence, Tuple
+
+from leds.animations import ANIMATIONS, DEFAULT_FPS
+from leds.array_config import (
+    MATRIX_HEIGHT,
+    MATRIX_PIXELS,
+    MATRIX_WIDTH,
+    PANEL_COUNT,
+    matrix_pixel_index,
+    panel_layout,
+    panel_pixel_count,
+)
+from leds.colors import dim
+
+PANEL_IP_NET = "10.1.1"
+PANEL_IP_BASE = 10
+PANEL_MAX_FPS = 25.0
+
+RGB = Tuple[int, int, int]
+
+DEFAULT_PORT = int(os.environ.get("PORTAL_PANEL_PORT", "50007"))
+
+
+def panel_ip(panel_id: int) -> str:
+    return f"{PANEL_IP_NET}.{PANEL_IP_BASE + panel_id}"
+
+
+DEFAULT_HOST = panel_ip(0)
+DEFAULT_PANEL_HOSTS = [panel_ip(i) for i in range(PANEL_COUNT)]
+
+
+@dataclass(frozen=True)
+class PanelTarget:
+    index: int
+    host: str
+    width: int
+    height: int
+
+    @property
+    def pixels(self) -> int:
+        return self.width * self.height
+
+    def label(self) -> str:
+        if self.index >= 0:
+            return f"{self.host} ({self.width}×{self.height}, panel {self.index})"
+        return f"{self.host} ({self.width}×{self.height})"
+
+
+def panel_hosts(panel_index: int | None = None, count: int = PANEL_COUNT) -> list[str]:
+    return [t.host for t in resolve_panel_targets(panel_index=panel_index, panels=count)]
+
+
+def resolve_panel_targets(
+    host: str | None = None,
+    panel_index: int | None = None,
+    panels: int = PANEL_COUNT,
+    *,
+    width: int | None = None,
+    height: int | None = None,
+) -> list[PanelTarget]:
+    if panel_index is not None:
+        w, h = panel_layout(panel_index)
+        if width is not None:
+            w = width
+        if height is not None:
+            h = height
+        return [PanelTarget(panel_index, panel_ip(panel_index), w, h)]
+    if host:
+        w = width if width is not None else MATRIX_WIDTH
+        h = height if height is not None else MATRIX_HEIGHT
+        return [PanelTarget(-1, host, w, h)]
+    return [
+        PanelTarget(i, panel_ip(i), *panel_layout(i))
+        for i in range(panels)
+    ]
+
+
+def format_panel_targets(targets: Sequence[PanelTarget], port: int) -> str:
+    if len(targets) == 1:
+        return f"{targets[0].label()}:{port}"
+    layouts = ", ".join(f"{t.width}×{t.height}" for t in targets)
+    return f"{len(targets)} panels ({targets[0].host} … {targets[-1].host}):{port} [{layouts}]"
+
+
+def add_panel_network_args(parser: argparse.ArgumentParser) -> None:
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--host",
+        default=None,
+        help="Single panel IP override (not needed; default uses 10.1.1.10–14)",
+    )
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--panel-index",
+        type=int,
+        default=None,
+        choices=range(PANEL_COUNT),
+        metavar="N",
+        help=f"Drive only panel N (0–{PANEL_COUNT - 1}); default all {PANEL_COUNT}",
+    )
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--panels",
+        type=int,
+        default=PANEL_COUNT,
+        help=f"Number of panels when driving all (default {PANEL_COUNT})",
+    )
+    parser.add_argument("--port", type=int, default=DEFAULT_PORT)
+    parser.add_argument("--panel-id", type=int, default=None, help="Prefix UDP frames with panel id")
+
+
+def add_panel_args(parser: argparse.ArgumentParser) -> None:
+    add_panel_network_args(parser)
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--width",
+        type=int,
+        default=None,
+        help="Override panel width (default from leds/array_config.py per panel)",
+    )
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--height",
+        type=int,
+        default=None,
+        help=f"Override panel height (default {MATRIX_HEIGHT})",
+    )
+    parser.add_argument(
+        "--count",
+        type=int,
+        default=None,
+        help="LEDs per frame (default: panel width × height)",
+    )
+    parser.add_argument("--brightness", type=float, default=0.35)
+
+
+def panel_targets_from_args(args: argparse.Namespace) -> list[PanelTarget]:
+    return resolve_panel_targets(
+        args.host,
+        args.panel_index,
+        args.panels,
+        width=getattr(args, "width", None),
+        height=getattr(args, "height", None),
+    )
+
+
+def panel_count_from_args(args: argparse.Namespace) -> int:
+    if args.count is not None:
+        return args.count
+    if args.panel_index is not None:
+        return panel_pixel_count(args.panel_index)
+    if args.width is not None:
+        h = args.height if args.height is not None else MATRIX_HEIGHT
+        return args.width * h
+    return MATRIX_PIXELS
+
+
+class HeadlessMatrix:
+    """Matrix buffer for UDP senders — no local SPI/PIO."""
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        width: int = MATRIX_WIDTH,
+        height: int = MATRIX_HEIGHT,
+        *,
+        brightness: float = 0.25,
+    ) -> None:
+        self.width = width
+        self.height = height
+        self.brightness = brightness
+        self._pixels: list[RGB] = [(0, 0, 0)] * (width * height)
+
+    def _index_at(self, x: int, y: int) -> int:
+        return matrix_pixel_index(x, y, self.width, self.height)
+
+    def __len__(self) -> int:
+        return len(self._pixels)
+
+    def __getitem__(self, pos: Tuple[int, int]) -> RGB:
+        return self._pixels[self._index_at(*pos)]
+
+    def __setitem__(self, pos: Tuple[int, int], color: RGB) -> None:
+        self._pixels[self._index_at(*pos)] = color
+
+    def fill(self, color: RGB) -> None:
+        self._pixels = [color] * len(self._pixels)
+
+    def clear(self) -> None:
+        self.fill((0, 0, 0))
+
+    def set_index(self, index: int, color: RGB) -> None:
+        if 0 <= index < len(self._pixels):
+            self._pixels[index] = color
+
+    def rgb_bytes(self) -> bytes:
+        out = bytearray(len(self._pixels) * 3)
+        for i, (r, g, b) in enumerate(self._pixels):
+            r, g, b = dim((r, g, b), self.brightness)
+            base = i * 3
+            out[base], out[base + 1], out[base + 2] = r, g, b
+        return bytes(out)
+
+
+def solid_frame_bytes(
+    color: RGB,
+    count: int = MATRIX_PIXELS,
+    brightness: float = 1.0,
+) -> bytes:
+    r, g, b = dim(color, brightness)
+    return bytes((r, g, b)) * count
+
+
+def pixels_to_frame_bytes(
+    pixels: Iterable[RGB],
+    brightness: float = 1.0,
+) -> bytes:
+    out = bytearray()
+    for r, g, b in pixels:
+        r, g, b = dim((r, g, b), brightness)
+        out.extend((r, g, b))
+    return bytes(out)
+
+
+def send_frame(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    host: str,
+    port: int,
+    rgb: bytes,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+) -> None:
+    payload = (bytes([panel_id & 0xFF]) + rgb) if panel_id is not None else rgb
+    sock.sendto(payload, (host, port))
+
+
+def send_solid_to_targets(
+    sock: socket.socket,
+    targets: Sequence[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    color: RGB,
+    brightness: float,
+    panel_id: int | None,
+) -> None:
+    for target in targets:
+        send_frame(
+            sock,
+            target.host,
+            port,
+            solid_frame_bytes(color, target.pixels, brightness),
+            panel_id,
+        )
+
+
+class PanelClient:
+    """Send frames to one or more portal panel firmware targets."""
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        targets: PanelTarget | Sequence[PanelTarget] | str,
+        port: int = DEFAULT_PORT,
+        *,
+        pixel_count: int | None = None,
+        panel_id: int | None = None,
+        brightness: float = 0.35,
+    ) -> None:
+        if isinstance(targets, PanelTarget):
+            self.targets = [targets]
+        elif isinstance(targets, str):
+            count = pixel_count or MATRIX_PIXELS
+            w = MATRIX_WIDTH
+            h = count // w if count % w == 0 else MATRIX_HEIGHT
+            self.targets = [PanelTarget(-1, targets, w, h)]
+        else:
+            self.targets = list(targets)
+        self.port = port
+        self.panel_id = panel_id
+        self.brightness = brightness
+        self._sock = socket.socket(socket.AF_INET, socket.SOCK_DGRAM)
+
+    @classmethod
+    def from_args(cls, args: argparse.Namespace) -> PanelClient:
+        return cls(
+            panel_targets_from_args(args),
+            args.port,
+            pixel_count=panel_count_from_args(args),
+            panel_id=args.panel_id,
+            brightness=args.brightness,
+        )
+
+    @property
+    def pixel_count(self) -> int:
+        if len(self.targets) != 1:
+            raise ValueError("pixel_count requires a single panel target")
+        return self.targets[0].pixels
+
+    @property
+    def hosts(self) -> list[str]:
+        return [t.host for t in self.targets]
+
+    def close(self) -> None:
+        self._sock.close()
+
+    def __enter__(self) -> PanelClient:
+        return self
+
+    def __exit__(self, *_exc) -> None:
+        self.clear()
+        self.close()
+
+    def send_bytes(self, rgb: bytes) -> None:
+        if len(self.targets) != 1:
+            raise ValueError("send_bytes requires a single panel target")
+        target = self.targets[0]
+        if len(rgb) != target.pixels * 3:
+            raise ValueError(f"expected {target.pixels * 3} bytes, got {len(rgb)}")
+        send_frame(self._sock, target.host, self.port, rgb, self.panel_id)
+
+    def fill(self, color: RGB = (0, 0, 0)) -> None:
+        for target in self.targets:
+            send_frame(
+                self._sock,
+                target.host,
+                self.port,
+                solid_frame_bytes(color, target.pixels, self.brightness),
+                self.panel_id,
+            )
+
+    def send_pixels(self, pixels: list[RGB]) -> None:
+        if len(self.targets) != 1:
+            raise ValueError("send_pixels requires a single panel target")
+        if len(pixels) != self.pixel_count:
+            raise ValueError(f"expected {self.pixel_count} pixels, got {len(pixels)}")
+        self.send_bytes(pixels_to_frame_bytes(pixels, self.brightness))
+
+    def set_indices(self, indices: Iterable[int], color: RGB) -> None:
+        pixels = [(0, 0, 0)] * self.pixel_count
+        for i in indices:
+            if 0 <= i < self.pixel_count:
+                pixels[i] = color
+        self.send_pixels(pixels)
+
+    def clear(self) -> None:
+        self.fill((0, 0, 0))
+
+
+def _panel_matrices(
+    targets: Sequence[PanelTarget],
+    brightness: float,
+) -> list[tuple[PanelTarget, HeadlessMatrix]]:
+    return [(t, HeadlessMatrix(t.width, t.height, brightness=brightness)) for t in targets]
+
+
+def run_panel_playlist(
+    targets: Sequence[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    playlist: list[str],
+    *,
+    duration: float = 12.0,
+    fps_override: float | None = None,
+    brightness: float = 0.25,
+    panel_id: int | None = None,
+    loop: bool = True,
+) -> None:
+    matrices = _panel_matrices(targets, brightness)
+    sock = socket.socket(socket.AF_INET, socket.SOCK_DGRAM)
+    try:
+        while True:
+            for name in playlist:
+                draw = ANIMATIONS[name]
+                fps = min(fps_override or DEFAULT_FPS.get(name, 30), PANEL_MAX_FPS)
+                delay = 1.0 / fps
+                frames = max(int(duration * fps), 1)
+                print(f"  {name} ({fps:.0f} fps, {frames} frames)")
+                for frame in range(frames):
+                    t0 = time.monotonic()
+                    for target, matrix in matrices:
+                        draw(matrix, frame)
+                        send_frame(sock, target.host, port, matrix.rgb_bytes(), panel_id)
+                    elapsed = time.monotonic() - t0
+                    if elapsed < delay:
+                        time.sleep(delay - elapsed)
+            if not loop:
+                break
+            print("  --- loop ---")
+        for target, matrix in matrices:
+            matrix.clear()
+            send_frame(sock, target.host, port, matrix.rgb_bytes(), panel_id)
+    finally:
+        sock.close()
+
+
+def run_panel_animation_loop(
+    targets: Sequence[PanelTarget],
+    port: int,
+    animation: str,
+    *,
+    fps: float | None = None,
+    brightness: float = 0.25,
+    panel_id: int | None = None,
+) -> None:
+    draw = ANIMATIONS[animation]
+    rate = min(fps or DEFAULT_FPS.get(animation, 30), PANEL_MAX_FPS)
+    interval = 1.0 / rate
+    matrices = _panel_matrices(targets, brightness)
+    sock = socket.socket(socket.AF_INET, socket.SOCK_DGRAM)
+    frame = 0
+    try:
+        while True:
+            t0 = time.monotonic()
+            for target, matrix in matrices:
+                draw(matrix, frame)
+                send_frame(sock, target.host, port, matrix.rgb_bytes(), panel_id)
+            frame += 1
+            elapsed = time.monotonic() - t0
+            if elapsed < interval:
+                time.sleep(interval - elapsed)
+    finally:
+        for target, matrix in matrices:
+            matrix.clear()
+            send_frame(sock, target.host, port, matrix.rgb_bytes(), panel_id)
+        sock.close()
+
+
+def animation_playlist(animation: str) -> list[str]:
+    names = list(ANIMATIONS.keys())
+    if animation == "all":
+        # Skip solid — 1 fps looks frozen on UDP panels; start with motion.
+        return [n for n in names if n != "solid"]
+    return [animation]
--- a/leds/strip.py
+++ b/leds/strip.py
@@ -0,0 +1,144 @@
+"""Unified WS2812 strip API for Raspberry Pi 5, 4, and Zero."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from typing import Literal, Sequence, Tuple, Union
+
+from leds.backends.pio import PioBackend
+from leds.backends.spi import SpiBackend
+from leds.backends.ws281x import Ws281xBackend
+from leds.config import pi5_setup_hint
+from leds.detect import board_family, board_model, pio_available, supports_ws281x
+
+Color = Union[Tuple[int, int, int], Sequence[int]]
+BackendName = Literal["auto", "pio", "spi", "ws281x"]
+
+
+def _clamp(value: int) -> int:
+    return max(0, min(255, int(value)))
+
+
+def _normalize_color(color: Color) -> Tuple[int, int, int]:
+    if len(color) != 3:
+        raise ValueError("color must be (r, g, b)")
+    return _clamp(color[0]), _clamp(color[1]), _clamp(color[2])
+
+
+def _apply_brightness(color: Tuple[int, int, int], brightness: float) -> Tuple[int, int, int]:
+    scale = max(0.0, min(1.0, brightness))
+    return (
+        int(color[0] * scale),
+        int(color[1] * scale),
+        int(color[2] * scale),
+    )
+
+
+def _resolve_backend(name: BackendName) -> str:
+    if name != "auto":
+        if name == "ws281x" and not supports_ws281x():
+            raise RuntimeError(
+                f"{board_model()} does not support ws281x; use backend='pio' or 'spi'"
+            )
+        if name == "pio" and board_family() == "pi5" and not pio_available():
+            raise RuntimeError(pi5_setup_hint(10, 10))
+        return name
+
+    if board_family() == "pi5":
+        return "pio" if pio_available() else "spi"
+    return "ws281x"
+
+
+class LedStrip:
+    """
+    Drive a WS2812 / NeoPixel strip on Pi 5, 4, or Zero.
+
+    Default backends:
+      - Pi 5: ws2812-pio on GPIO 18/13 (/dev/leds0, /dev/leds1)
+      - Pi 4 / Zero: PWM on GPIO 18/13 via rpi_ws281x
+    """
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        count: int,
+        *,
+        backend: BackendName = "auto",
+        pin: int = 18,
+        channel: int = 0,
+        device: str = "/dev/leds0",
+        brightness: float = 1.0,
+        spi_bus: int = 0,
+        spi_device: int = 0,
+    ) -> None:
+        if count < 1:
+            raise ValueError("count must be at least 1")
+
+        self._count = count
+        self._brightness = max(0.0, min(1.0, brightness))
+        self._pixels: list[Tuple[int, int, int]] = [(0, 0, 0)] * count
+
+        resolved = _resolve_backend(backend)
+        if resolved == "pio":
+            self._backend = PioBackend(count, device=device)
+        elif resolved == "spi":
+            self._backend = SpiBackend(
+                count, spi_bus=spi_bus, spi_device=spi_device
+            )
+        else:
+            self._backend = Ws281xBackend(count, pin=pin, channel=channel)
+
+        self._backend_name = resolved
+
+    @property
+    def count(self) -> int:
+        return self._count
+
+    @property
+    def backend(self) -> str:
+        return self._backend_name
+
+    @property
+    def brightness(self) -> float:
+        return self._brightness
+
+    @brightness.setter
+    def brightness(self, value: float) -> None:
+        self._brightness = max(0.0, min(1.0, value))
+
+    def __len__(self) -> int:
+        return self._count
+
+    def __getitem__(self, index: int) -> Tuple[int, int, int]:
+        return self._pixels[index]
+
+    def __setitem__(self, index: int, color: Color) -> None:
+        self._pixels[index] = _normalize_color(color)
+
+    def fill(self, color: Color) -> None:
+        rgb = _normalize_color(color)
+        self._pixels = [rgb] * self._count
+
+    def set_pixel(self, index: int, color: Color) -> None:
+        self[index] = color
+
+    def show(self) -> None:
+        grb = bytearray(self._count * 3)
+        for i, (r, g, b) in enumerate(self._pixels):
+            r, g, b = _apply_brightness((r, g, b), self._brightness)
+            base = i * 3
+            grb[base] = g
+            grb[base + 1] = r
+            grb[base + 2] = b
+        self._backend.write_grb(bytes(grb))
+
+    def clear(self) -> None:
+        self.fill((0, 0, 0))
+        self._backend.clear()
+
+    def close(self) -> None:
+        self._backend.close()
+
+    def __enter__(self) -> LedStrip:
+        return self
+
+    def __exit__(self, *_exc) -> None:
+        self.close()
--- a/leds/strips.py
+++ b/leds/strips.py
@@ -0,0 +1,75 @@
+"""Control two WS2812 strips with board-appropriate defaults."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from leds.config import StripConfig, default_dual_strip_configs
+from leds.strip import LedStrip
+
+
+class LedStrips:
+    """Drive two WS2812 strips. Use default configs or pass StripConfig per strip."""
+
+    def __init__(
+        self,
+        count0: int,
+        count1: int,
+        *,
+        config0: StripConfig | None = None,
+        config1: StripConfig | None = None,
+        brightness: float = 1.0,
+    ) -> None:
+        if config0 is None or config1 is None:
+            defaults = default_dual_strip_configs(
+                count0, count1, brightness=brightness
+            )
+            config0 = config0 or defaults[0]
+            config1 = config1 or defaults[1]
+
+        self._strips = (
+            _strip_from_config(config0),
+            _strip_from_config(config1),
+        )
+
+    @property
+    def strip0(self) -> LedStrip:
+        return self._strips[0]
+
+    @property
+    def strip1(self) -> LedStrip:
+        return self._strips[1]
+
+    def __getitem__(self, index: int) -> LedStrip:
+        if index not in (0, 1):
+            raise IndexError("strip index must be 0 or 1")
+        return self._strips[index]
+
+    def show(self) -> None:
+        for strip in self._strips:
+            strip.show()
+
+    def clear(self) -> None:
+        for strip in self._strips:
+            strip.clear()
+
+    def close(self) -> None:
+        for strip in self._strips:
+            strip.close()
+
+    def __enter__(self) -> LedStrips:
+        return self
+
+    def __exit__(self, *_exc) -> None:
+        self.close()
+
+
+def _strip_from_config(config: StripConfig) -> LedStrip:
+    return LedStrip(
+        config.count,
+        backend=config.backend,
+        pin=config.pin,
+        channel=config.channel,
+        device=config.device,
+        brightness=config.brightness,
+        spi_bus=config.spi_bus,
+        spi_device=config.spi_device,
+    )
--- a/leds/text.py
+++ b/leds/text.py
@@ -0,0 +1,124 @@
+"""5×7 bitmap text for LED matrices."""
+
+from __future__ import annotations
+
+from typing import Tuple
+
+from leds.array_config import MATRIX_HEIGHT, MATRIX_WIDTH, matrix_pixel_index
+
+RGB = Tuple[int, int, int]
+
+# Each letter: 7 rows, 5 LSBs = columns (bit 4 = left).
+_FONT: dict[str, tuple[int, ...]] = {
+    " ": (0x00, 0x00, 0x00, 0x00, 0x00, 0x00, 0x00),
+    "A": (0x0E, 0x11, 0x11, 0x1F, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11),
+    "B": (0x1E, 0x11, 0x11, 0x1E, 0x11, 0x11, 0x1E),
+    "C": (0x0E, 0x11, 0x10, 0x10, 0x10, 0x11, 0x0E),
+    "D": (0x1E, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x1E),
+    "E": (0x1F, 0x10, 0x10, 0x1E, 0x10, 0x10, 0x1F),
+    "F": (0x1F, 0x10, 0x10, 0x1E, 0x10, 0x10, 0x10),
+    "G": (0x0E, 0x11, 0x10, 0x17, 0x11, 0x11, 0x0E),
+    "H": (0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x1F, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11),
+    "I": (0x0E, 0x04, 0x04, 0x04, 0x04, 0x04, 0x0E),
+    "J": (0x07, 0x02, 0x02, 0x02, 0x02, 0x12, 0x0C),
+    "K": (0x11, 0x12, 0x14, 0x18, 0x14, 0x12, 0x11),
+    "L": (0x10, 0x10, 0x10, 0x10, 0x10, 0x10, 0x1F),
+    "M": (0x11, 0x1B, 0x15, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11),
+    "N": (0x11, 0x19, 0x15, 0x13, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11),
+    "O": (0x0E, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x0E),
+    "P": (0x1E, 0x11, 0x11, 0x1E, 0x10, 0x10, 0x10),
+    "Q": (0x0E, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x15, 0x12, 0x0D),
+    "R": (0x1E, 0x11, 0x11, 0x1E, 0x14, 0x12, 0x11),
+    "S": (0x0E, 0x11, 0x10, 0x0E, 0x01, 0x11, 0x0E),
+    "T": (0x1F, 0x04, 0x04, 0x04, 0x04, 0x04, 0x04),
+    "U": (0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x0E),
+    "V": (0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x0A, 0x0A, 0x04),
+    "W": (0x11, 0x11, 0x11, 0x15, 0x15, 0x1B, 0x11),
+    "X": (0x11, 0x11, 0x0A, 0x04, 0x0A, 0x11, 0x11),
+    "Y": (0x11, 0x11, 0x0A, 0x04, 0x04, 0x04, 0x04),
+    "Z": (0x1F, 0x01, 0x02, 0x04, 0x08, 0x10, 0x1F),
+    "0": (0x0E, 0x11, 0x13, 0x15, 0x19, 0x11, 0x0E),
+    "1": (0x04, 0x0C, 0x04, 0x04, 0x04, 0x04, 0x0E),
+    "2": (0x0E, 0x11, 0x01, 0x06, 0x08, 0x10, 0x1F),
+    "3": (0x1F, 0x02, 0x04, 0x06, 0x01, 0x11, 0x0E),
+    "4": (0x02, 0x06, 0x0A, 0x12, 0x1F, 0x02, 0x02),
+    "5": (0x1F, 0x10, 0x1E, 0x01, 0x01, 0x11, 0x0E),
+    "6": (0x06, 0x08, 0x10, 0x1E, 0x11, 0x11, 0x0E),
+    "7": (0x1F, 0x01, 0x02, 0x04, 0x08, 0x08, 0x08),
+    "8": (0x0E, 0x11, 0x11, 0x0E, 0x11, 0x11, 0x0E),
+    "9": (0x0E, 0x11, 0x11, 0x0F, 0x01, 0x02, 0x0C),
+}
+
+CHAR_WIDTH = 5
+CHAR_HEIGHT = 7
+CHAR_SPACING = 1
+
+
+def text_width(text: str, spacing: int = CHAR_SPACING) -> int:
+    text = text.upper()
+    if not text:
+        return 0
+    return len(text) * CHAR_WIDTH + (len(text) - 1) * spacing
+
+
+def _set(surface, x: int, y: int, color: RGB) -> None:
+    if hasattr(surface, "width") and hasattr(surface, "height"):
+        if 0 <= x < surface.width and 0 <= y < surface.height:
+            surface[x, y] = color
+    else:
+        w = getattr(surface, "width", MATRIX_WIDTH)
+        idx = matrix_pixel_index(x, y, w)
+        if 0 <= idx < len(surface):
+            surface[idx] = color
+
+
+def draw_char(
+    surface,
+    ch: str,
+    x: int,
+    y: int,
+    color: RGB,
+    *,
+    scale: int = 1,
+) -> None:
+    glyph = _FONT.get(ch.upper(), _FONT[" "])
+    for row, bits in enumerate(glyph):
+        for col in range(CHAR_WIDTH):
+            if bits & (1 << (CHAR_WIDTH - 1 - col)):
+                for sy in range(scale):
+                    for sx in range(scale):
+                        _set(surface, x + col * scale + sx, y + row * scale + sy, color)
+
+
+def draw_text(
+    surface,
+    text: str,
+    x: int,
+    y: int,
+    color: RGB,
+    *,
+    scale: int = 1,
+    spacing: int = CHAR_SPACING,
+) -> None:
+    cursor = x
+    step = (CHAR_WIDTH + spacing) * scale
+    for ch in text.upper():
+        draw_char(surface, ch, cursor, y, color, scale=scale)
+        cursor += step
+
+
+def draw_text_centered(
+    surface,
+    text: str,
+    color: RGB,
+    *,
+    scale: int = 1,
+    spacing: int = CHAR_SPACING,
+) -> None:
+    w = getattr(surface, "width", MATRIX_WIDTH)
+    h = getattr(surface, "height", MATRIX_HEIGHT)
+    tw = text_width(text, spacing) * scale
+    th = CHAR_HEIGHT * scale
+    x = max(0, (w - tw) // 2)
+    y = max(0, (h - th) // 2)
+    draw_text(surface, text, x, y, color, scale=scale, spacing=spacing)
--- a/pyproject.toml
+++ b/pyproject.toml
@@ -0,0 +1,17 @@
+[build-system]
+requires = ["setuptools>=61"]
+build-backend = "setuptools.build_meta"
+
+[project]
+name = "portal"
+version = "0.1.0"
+description = "WS2812 LED control for Raspberry Pi"
+requires-python = ">=3.9"
+dependencies = [
+    "spidev>=3.6",
+    "rpi-ws281x>=5.0.0",
+]
+
+[tool.setuptools.packages.find]
+where = ["."]
+include = ["leds*"]
--- a/scripts/panel_deploy.sh
+++ b/scripts/panel_deploy.sh
@@ -0,0 +1,116 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env bash
+# Build and upload portal panel firmware over USB.
+#
+# Usage:
+#   ./scripts/panel_deploy.sh
+#   ./scripts/panel_deploy.sh --build-only
+#   ./scripts/panel_deploy.sh --upload-only
+#
+# Options:
+#   --build-only       Build, do not upload
+#   --upload-only      Upload existing build, skip compile
+#   --panel-id N       Pass -DPANEL_ID_BUILD=N to cmake
+#   --no-dhcp          Pass -DPORTAL_USE_DHCP=OFF to cmake
+#   --num-leds N       Pass -DNUM_LEDS_BUILD=N to cmake
+#
+# Environment:
+#   PICO_SDK_PATH      Path to pico-sdk (default: ~/pico/pico-sdk)
+
+set -euo pipefail
+
+ROOT="$(cd "$(dirname "${BASH_SOURCE[0]}")/.." && pwd)"
+BUILD_DIR="${ROOT}/firmware/panel/build"
+PICO_SDK_PATH="${PICO_SDK_PATH:-${HOME}/pico/pico-sdk}"
+JOBS="$(nproc)"
+
+DO_BUILD=1
+DO_UPLOAD=1
+CMAKE_EXTRA=()
+
+die() {
+    echo "Error: $*" >&2
+    exit 1
+}
+
+usage() {
+    sed -n '2,16p' "$0" | sed 's/^# \{0,1\}//'
+    exit "${1:-0}"
+}
+
+while (($# > 0)); do
+    case "$1" in
+        --build-only)
+            DO_UPLOAD=0
+            shift
+            ;;
+        --upload-only)
+            DO_BUILD=0
+            shift
+            ;;
+        --panel-id)
+            [[ $# -ge 2 ]] || die "--panel-id requires a number"
+            CMAKE_EXTRA+=("-DPANEL_ID_BUILD=${2}")
+            shift 2
+            ;;
+        --no-dhcp)
+            CMAKE_EXTRA+=("-DPORTAL_USE_DHCP=OFF")
+            shift
+            ;;
+        --num-leds)
+            [[ $# -ge 2 ]] || die "--num-leds requires a number"
+            CMAKE_EXTRA+=("-DNUM_LEDS_BUILD=${2}")
+            shift 2
+            ;;
+        -h|--help)
+            usage 0
+            ;;
+        *)
+            die "unknown option: $1 (try --help)"
+            ;;
+    esac
+done
+
+build_firmware() {
+    [[ -d "${PICO_SDK_PATH}" ]] || die "pico-sdk not found at ${PICO_SDK_PATH} (set PICO_SDK_PATH)"
+    command -v cmake >/dev/null || die "cmake is required"
+    command -v make >/dev/null || die "make is required"
+
+    export PICO_SDK_PATH
+    mkdir -p "${BUILD_DIR}"
+
+    echo "==> Building panel firmware in ${BUILD_DIR}"
+    if [[ ! -f "${BUILD_DIR}/CMakeCache.txt" ]]; then
+        cmake -S "${ROOT}/firmware/panel" -B "${BUILD_DIR}" "${CMAKE_EXTRA[@]}"
+    elif ((${#CMAKE_EXTRA[@]} > 0)); then
+        cmake -S "${ROOT}/firmware/panel" -B "${BUILD_DIR}" "${CMAKE_EXTRA[@]}"
+    fi
+    cmake --build "${BUILD_DIR}" -j "${JOBS}"
+
+    [[ -f "${BUILD_DIR}/panel.uf2" ]] || die "build did not produce panel.uf2"
+    echo "==> Build OK: ${BUILD_DIR}/panel.uf2"
+}
+
+upload_usb() {
+    command -v picotool >/dev/null || die "picotool not found (install from https://github.com/raspberrypi/picotool)"
+    if picotool version 2>&1 | grep -q 'without USB support'; then
+        die "picotool was built without USB support; rebuild with libusb-1.0-0-dev installed"
+    fi
+
+    echo "==> Uploading over USB"
+    if ! picotool load -x -f "${BUILD_DIR}/panel.uf2" 2>&1 | tee /tmp/picotool_load.log; then
+        die "picotool load failed"
+    fi
+    if ! grep -q 'Loading into Flash' /tmp/picotool_load.log; then
+        die "picotool did not flash (hold BOOTSEL, plug USB, retry)"
+    fi
+    echo "==> USB upload OK"
+}
+
+if ((DO_BUILD)); then
+    build_firmware
+fi
+
+if ((DO_UPLOAD)); then
+    [[ -f "${BUILD_DIR}/panel.uf2" ]] || die "panel.uf2 not found; run without --upload-only first"
+    upload_usb
+fi
--- a/scripts/setup_ap.sh
+++ b/scripts/setup_ap.sh
@@ -0,0 +1,117 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env bash
+# Set up a WiFi access point on wlan0 and share internet from ethernet (eth0).
+#
+# Usage:
+#   sudo ./scripts/setup_ap.sh
+#   sudo PORTAL_AP_SSID=mywifi PORTAL_AP_PASSWORD=secret ./scripts/setup_ap.sh
+#
+# Environment:
+#   PORTAL_AP_SSID       WiFi name (default: portal)
+#   PORTAL_AP_PASSWORD   WPA password, 8+ chars (default: portal1234)
+#   PORTAL_AP_CON_NAME   NetworkManager connection name (default: portal-ap)
+#   PORTAL_AP_IF         AP interface (default: wlan0)
+#   PORTAL_WAN_IF        Uplink interface (default: eth0)
+
+set -euo pipefail
+
+SSID="${PORTAL_AP_SSID:-portal}"
+PASSWORD="${PORTAL_AP_PASSWORD:-portal1234}"
+CON_NAME="${PORTAL_AP_CON_NAME:-portal-ap}"
+AP_IF="${PORTAL_AP_IF:-wlan0}"
+WAN_IF="${PORTAL_WAN_IF:-eth0}"
+
+die() {
+    echo "Error: $*" >&2
+    exit 1
+}
+
+if [[ "${EUID}" -ne 0 ]]; then
+    die "run as root: sudo $0"
+fi
+
+if ((${#PASSWORD} < 8)); then
+    die "PORTAL_AP_PASSWORD must be at least 8 characters"
+fi
+
+if ! command -v nmcli >/dev/null; then
+    die "NetworkManager (nmcli) is required"
+fi
+
+if ! systemctl is-active --quiet NetworkManager; then
+    die "NetworkManager is not running"
+fi
+
+if ! ip link show "${WAN_IF}" >/dev/null 2>&1; then
+    die "uplink interface ${WAN_IF} not found"
+fi
+
+if ! ip link show "${AP_IF}" >/dev/null 2>&1; then
+    die "AP interface ${AP_IF} not found"
+fi
+
+if ! ip link show "${WAN_IF}" | grep -q "state UP"; then
+    echo "Warning: ${WAN_IF} is not UP — connect ethernet before clients can reach the internet." >&2
+fi
+
+# NM shared AP mode uses hostapd on many Pi images.
+if ! command -v hostapd >/dev/null; then
+    echo "Installing hostapd..."
+    apt-get update -qq
+    apt-get install -y hostapd
+fi
+
+# Allow forwarding between AP clients and ethernet.
+sysctl -w net.ipv4.ip_forward=1 >/dev/null
+cat >/etc/sysctl.d/99-portal-ap.conf <<'EOF'
+# portal AP: share ethernet to WiFi clients
+net.ipv4.ip_forward=1
+EOF
+
+rfkill unblock wifi >/dev/null 2>&1 || true
+nmcli radio wifi on >/dev/null 2>&1 || true
+
+if nmcli -t -f NAME connection show | grep -Fxq "${CON_NAME}"; then
+    echo "Updating existing connection '${CON_NAME}'..."
+    nmcli connection delete "${CON_NAME}" >/dev/null
+fi
+
+echo "Creating access point '${SSID}' on ${AP_IF}..."
+nmcli connection add type wifi ifname "${AP_IF}" con-name "${CON_NAME}" \
+    autoconnect yes \
+    ssid "${SSID}" \
+    802-11-wireless.mode ap \
+    802-11-wireless.band bg \
+    ipv4.method shared \
+    ipv6.method ignore \
+    wifi-sec.key-mgmt wpa-psk \
+    wifi-sec.psk "${PASSWORD}" >/dev/null
+
+# Prefer ethernet for upstream internet when both are available.
+nmcli connection modify "${CON_NAME}" ipv4.never-default no
+if nmcli -t -f NAME connection show | grep -Fxq "Wired connection 1"; then
+    nmcli connection modify "Wired connection 1" connection.autoconnect-priority 100
+fi
+nmcli connection modify "${CON_NAME}" connection.autoconnect-priority 50
+
+echo "Starting access point..."
+nmcli connection up "${CON_NAME}"
+
+AP_IP="$(nmcli -g IP4.ADDRESS device show "${AP_IF}" 2>/dev/null | cut -d/ -f1)"
+WAN_IP="$(nmcli -g IP4.ADDRESS device show "${WAN_IF}" 2>/dev/null | cut -d/ -f1 || true)"
+
+cat <<EOF
+
+Access point is running.
+
+  SSID:      ${SSID}
+  Password:  ${PASSWORD}
+  AP IP:     ${AP_IP:-unknown} (${AP_IF})
+  Uplink:    ${WAN_IF} ${WAN_IP:+($WAN_IP)}
+
+Clients receive DHCP from the Pi and internet is shared via NAT through ${WAN_IF}.
+The AP starts automatically on boot.
+
+Stop it with:
+  sudo ./scripts/stop_ap.sh
+
+EOF
--- a/scripts/stop_ap.sh
+++ b/scripts/stop_ap.sh
@@ -0,0 +1,62 @@
+#!/usr/bin/env bash
+# Stop the portal access point and return wlan0 to WiFi client mode.
+
+set -euo pipefail
+
+CON_NAME="${PORTAL_AP_CON_NAME:-portal-ap}"
+WLAN_IF="${PORTAL_AP_IF:-wlan0}"
+
+if [[ "${EUID}" -ne 0 ]]; then
+    echo "Error: run as root: sudo $0" >&2
+    exit 1
+fi
+
+if ! command -v nmcli >/dev/null; then
+    echo "Error: NetworkManager (nmcli) is required" >&2
+    exit 1
+fi
+
+if nmcli -t -f NAME connection show | grep -Fxq "${CON_NAME}"; then
+    nmcli connection down "${CON_NAME}" 2>/dev/null || true
+    nmcli connection modify "${CON_NAME}" connection.autoconnect no
+    echo "Access point '${CON_NAME}' stopped (autoconnect disabled)."
+else
+    echo "Connection '${CON_NAME}' not found."
+fi
+
+rfkill unblock wifi >/dev/null 2>&1 || true
+nmcli radio wifi on >/dev/null 2>&1 || true
+nmcli device disconnect "${WLAN_IF}" 2>/dev/null || true
+nmcli device wifi rescan 2>/dev/null || true
+sleep 2
+
+# Saved client profiles, newest first (skip the AP connection).
+mapfile -t CLIENT_CONS < <(
+    nmcli -t -f NAME,TYPE,TIMESTAMP connection show | awk -F: -v ap="${CON_NAME}" '
+        $2 == "802-11-wireless" && $1 != ap { print $3 "\t" $1 }
+    ' | sort -rn | cut -f2
+)
+
+CONNECTED=0
+for client_con in "${CLIENT_CONS[@]}"; do
+    key_mgmt="$(nmcli -g 802-11-wireless-security.key-mgmt connection show "${client_con}" 2>/dev/null || true)"
+    if [[ -z "${key_mgmt}" ]]; then
+        echo "Skipping '${client_con}': missing 802-11-wireless-security.key-mgmt."
+        echo "  Fix: sudo nmcli connection delete ${client_con}"
+        echo "       sudo nmcli device wifi connect <SSID> password <pass>"
+        continue
+    fi
+    if nmcli connection up "${client_con}" ifname "${WLAN_IF}" 2>/dev/null; then
+        echo "wlan0 connected as client: ${client_con}"
+        CONNECTED=1
+        break
+    fi
+done
+
+if ((CONNECTED == 0)); then
+    echo "wlan0 is in client mode but no saved network connected."
+    echo "List networks: nmcli device wifi list"
+    echo "Connect:       sudo nmcli device wifi connect <SSID> password <pass>"
+fi
+
+echo "Remove AP permanently: sudo nmcli connection delete ${CON_NAME}"