A handful of tools, calculators and communities that come in handy when planning, building and running an animated Christmas light show.

xLights — The Software

The free, open-source sequencing software used to design, build and run animated light shows — from laying out props to syncing effects to music.

RGB Pixel Light Power Calculator

A free calculator for working out voltage drop and power injection points, so pixel strings stay bright and consistent from end to end.

xLights Custom Model Builder

A web tool for tracing a photo of a prop to generate a matching custom model file for xLights, so pixel mapping lines up with the real thing.

Hanson Electronics

An Australian manufacturer of pixel controllers and DC lighting hardware for Christmas displays — handy for local parts and support.

AusChristmasLighting

An Australian community forum for animated Christmas lighting enthusiasts, sharing displays, controller advice and sequencing know-how.