This past week, I was able to get the second string of lights terminated into the IP68 connector, and got the Arduino Pro Mini mounted.

The lights are two strings of 50, but when center-fed, act like one long string of 100 lights. This is a HUGE step up from the original controllers, which independently controlled each string of 50 and got out of sync with each other quickly. Now, the entire front of my house will have a unified look, the way it should be.

I've tested the final hardware several times, and it works just like it did in prototyping, so I'm confident it'll work come Christmastime.

Also, today I got the processor mounted into the case. I used a zip tie sticky mount. To encourage better adhesion, I cleaned the inside of the pelican case with an alcohol wipe, then used a small dab of the Loctite Stick 'n' Seal in the middle of the mount's adhesive pad. I hope that holds better than just the mount's adhesive. Time will tell. This allows me to plug in and reprogram the controller if I need to, while holding it securely for everyday use.

It feels really good to get this done. While I've been tinkering with Arduinos for a while, this is the first project I've taken from the bench to everyday (or at least seasonal) use. I think when the Color Effect lights hit the stores this fall, I'll buy two more sets and build a second controller. Then I can have those operating in the back yard in addition to the ones on the front.