8×8 LED Array Multiplexed Infinity Mirror using PIC18F1320

8x8 LED Array Multiplexed Infinity Mirror

A little bit different than your regular Infinity Mirror. Using a piece of mirrored acrylic for the back mirror, 8 rows of 8 holes are drilled into in a grid pattern. A LED is then placed in each hole and wired up so that i can be multiplexed through a controller.

The frame I built for this project is very similar to my 8x8 Infinity Mirror, but instead of having glass for the rear mirror, I used mirrored acrylic which is easily drilled. And there are no LEDS around the outside. All the LEDs are in the back mirror and appear to be floating within it.

I got the idea after making an octagon mirror with a inner ring of LEDs, the effect of the LEDs floating in there is quite appealing, so I decided to do a small/simple project to demonstrate.

Building the actual frame will not be covered in detail here, but plans are in the ZIP. For detailed instructions on building the frame please see my other Instructable - 32 LED Infinity Mirror

The firmware is written in C18 for the PIC18F1320 and the TPIC6C596 high power shift register. Its a very basic program, with just 4 patterns to display, 2 switches change the pattern and the speed.

UPDATE: Kits are now available for this project, the LED controller is not being offered, but there are many different 8x8 array controllers out there to choose from. Quality glass 2-way mirror on the front and mirrored acrylic for the back, drilled and ready to use. Link

Check Out my Infinity Mirror Gallery

ChromationSystems-8x8led.zip178 KB

Step 1: Supplies

Get a Kit including the Frame Parts, front and back mirror, drilled and ready. LED Controller is not being offered.

Electronics:
- PIC18F1320
- 18pin socket
- TPIC6C596 shift register
- 16 pin socket
- x64 5mm LEDs, whatever color, I used white.
- x3 10kohm 1/4w resistors
- x8 220 ohm resistors, may be different based on color
*Used high value resistors because they LEDs shouldn't be to bright inside an infinity mirror or it won't        work as well.
- 1 uF capacitor
- 0.1uF capacitor
- x2 momentary pushbuttons
- 5v @ ~1A power supply with DC Jack Get One

Circuit Board:
- Solid strand wire
- Perfboard

Frame:
- Plans are on the next page or in my 32 LED Infinity Mirror
- I use 100mil Polystyrene, but acrylic or 1/8th masonite would work as well

Tools:
- Soldering Iron
- Hotglue gun
- drill and bits, for button hole
- 5mm drill bit for LEDs
- Utility Knife

I could put a kit together for everything or just certain parts, Contact Me to find out

Build the Frame

I am not going to cover building the frame to much here as it is the same process and nearly the same size as my 32 LED Infinity Mirror. Only difference is the inner walls do not have any holes drilled in them and the outer walls should be a 1/4"-1/2" wider to accommodated the LED array.The plans in the image below is for the 32 LED mirror. Rest are for this projects mirror frame.Find where you will want the DC Jack and switches, I always choose a corner. Later the 2 switches will be soldered on some perfboard to be mounted in the holes. Take a look at your switches and find their spacing. With some masking or painters tape put some tape in the area of the holes and mark your layout on the tape.Drill the holes for the 2 switches, I used a 5/16" bit to drill them out then a utility knife to cut them more square. They will later get a black decal over them to hide the switches nearly completely.

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Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough...