wdmonitor@gmail.com wrote: ↑Wed Sep 30, 2020 5:52 pm
I know this an old thread, but if 6-digit 7-segment displays are a must (they are for me) I use the TM1637 modules connected with either SimVim or my own Arduino code, using the AM Message Port to send the subscribed dataref(s) to the external Arduino NOT running AM. The TM1637 modules are great. They only use 2 I/O lines, and they come in multiple colors and different digit counts. The digits and displays themselves are also physically smaller than the popular MAX7219 modules. I use them in my radio panels and they work great.
Yup, agreed, the 1637 and 38 are superb. I use the 0.3 and 0.32 height modules which are a far more realistic size than the 7219 ready made 'modules'
the readily available and ubiquitous 7219 module is really good, but looks totally out of place. Most of the commercial ready made units for the '37 are 0.36 height which is still ok, but I have decided to go down the route of using the 0.28", 0.3" and 0.32" modules and move the driver chip from the board (or the driver 'board' from the LED module which is easier) . The added ability to have the use of 8 buttons and outputs on the same data-lines is also neat. Loads of great arduino code out there ready to be hooked up to sim message port at a time when needed.
these units are superb for arduino with 8 inputs and 8 outputs and also 8 x 7 segs on 3 lines. There are 16 key modules for the 1638 but there CAN be issues with multiple simultaneous button presses that are not present on the 8 button units. - (due to lack of routing diodes)
https://www.banggood.com/pt/5Pcs-TM1638 ... rehouse=UK Note for FIVE units !
or of course the far cheaper AliX for the exact same units but a slightly longer delay in delivery ( no issue really)
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/3280148 ... 5MmJC&mp=1 for 10 pieces ! BARGAIN
You can simply remove the components and use them as remote pcbs as only the main controller ic and matrix diodes are surface mount, the rest is through hole.
VERY neat units. I gave up on the 'normal' 7219 'modules years ago as being far too big (on the display at 0.56") to be useful.
8 x 7 seg display, 8 simultaneous outputs and 8 simultaneous inputs - on 3 pins !!! amazing - and can be daisy chained with 1 extra pin per module.
edit - oh, and yes I forgot doh !
... the other huge reason that I looked at these in the first place was the ability to use Common Anode as well as CC as I bought a rake of CA specialist units that were only available in that format. that means a specialist board approach, but as the external circuitry required is essentially non existent and you can mount the SOIC on a DIL/ DIP converter and use with standard 2/54mm vero board or similar. adding the additional inputs and outputs is again a really nice feature..