Python coding

Programming Novation Launchpad Mini MK3

last updated: 2025-08-27

Intro

For my MIDIbox sequencer I needed a matrix of LEDs and buttons.

I first tried an 8x8 matrix with the silicon buttons from adafruit, but the price for the RGB PCBs with the buttons was near 100€. A Novation Launchpad Mini MK3 is under 100€, so I bought 2 of those.

They are quite easy to program over MIDI in programming mode. So here is a little library in python to do so. It is inspired by the work of borfo.

DP100_manipulator
click for a better view

Launchpad Mini [MK3] Programmer’s reference manual

The Launchpad Mini [MK3] has two MIDI interfaces. We are here only interested in the interface to receive MIDI from Custom modes (external MIDI input or Light controls in Lighting Custom Modes and Programmer mode).

In Programmer mode, your Launchpad Mini loses access to Session, Drum, Keys, and User Modes, and the entire surface (pads and buttons) becomes unlit. Each pad and button will send out a specified MIDI message when pressed. You can light the pads and buttons by sending their corresponding MIDI messages to Launchpad Mini. For more information, see the Programmer Reference Guide, which can be downloaded at .

Note that in Programmer mode, all buttons and pads accept either Note or Control Change messages. The indicated type is which is sent by the device on the MIDI interface when the corresponding button or pad is pressed.

Downloads

https://github.com/borfo/pyBLM

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