MAX7219 display Micro:bit

Display a character on the MAX7219 display with Micro:bit

05-04-22 1551

The MAX7219 is a serial input/output common-cathode display driver that interfaces microcontrollers to 7-segment numeric LED displays of up to 8 digits, bar-graph displays, or 64 individual LEDs. The Micro:bit is a small, codeable computer that can be used for a variety of educational and creative projects. To use a MAX7219 display with a Micro:bit, you will need to connect the MAX7219 to the Micro:bit using wires and use a Micro:bit library or program to control the display.

Purpose of this tutorial:

In this tutorial we will see how to display the letter ‘A’ on the MAX7219 display with Micro:bit.

Necessary components

Micro:bit

The Micro:bit is a small, programmable computer that is designed for use in education. It was developed by the BBC in partnership with a number of technology companies and organizations, with the goal of providing an accessible and easy-to-use platform for learning about computing and programming.

The Micro:bit has a small, 5×5 LED matrix that can be used to display messages, animations, and other visual outputs. It also has two programmable buttons, an accelerometer, a compass, a thermometer, and a radio module for wireless communication. It can be programmed using a variety of languages, including Python, JavaScript, and Microsoft Blocks.

The Micro:bit is designed to be easy to use and requires no prior knowledge of programming to get started. It’s great for students of all ages to learn computer science and programming concepts.

MAX7219 display

The MAX7219 is a serial input/output common-cathode display driver that can be used to drive a 7-segment LED display, or an 8×8 LED matrix. It is a compact and versatile integrated circuit that allows you to control multiple digits with a single digital output pin. The MAX7219 can interface with a microcontroller, such as an Arduino, via a 3-wire serial interface, which consists of Data, Clock, and Load pins. The MAX7219 also has built-in features such as a BCD decoder, a multiplex scan circuitry, and a digit driver. It requires an external power supply of 5V and can drive up to 8 digits, with a maximum current of 150mA per segment. The MAX7219 library can be used to control the MAX7219 display with the Microbit, it’s easy to use and have a lot of functionality.

Test plate

A test plate for Arduino is a type of test plate that can be used in conjunction with an Arduino microcontroller to automate experiments or tests. The test plate typically contains multiple wells or compartments that can hold samples or test solutions, and is designed to interface with the Arduino’s digital inputs and outputs.

Connecting wires

Wires in a robotic system are used to connect and transmit electrical signals between different components of the robot. These components can include sensors, actuators, motors, and the microcontroller, such as an Arduino. The wires in a robotic system are typically made of copper and are insulated to prevent electrical interference and short circuits.

The type of wires used in a robotic system depends on the specific application and requirements of the robot. For example, a robot that requires high-current power transmission may use thicker, high-gauge wires, while a robot that requires a high degree of flexibility and movement may use thinner, more flexible wires.

Wires in a robotic system can be used to transmit power, control signals, and data between the different components of the robot. They can also be used to connect the robot to external devices, such as a computer or a power source. The proper use of wires is crucial for the robot to function properly, and a bad wiring can cause malfunction, safety hazards, and even damage to the equipment.

It is important to use the right type of wire for the right application, and it is also important to keep the wires organized and secure to prevent them from getting tangled, damaged, or disconnected.