What is Led matrix? Types of Dot matrix display with working

Summary of What is Led matrix? Types of Dot matrix display with working


Interfacing an 8x8 dot matrix with an AT89C51 microcontroller is a simple project involving 64 LEDs arranged in 8 columns and rows. The display operates by sending HIGH signals to specific column pins and LOW signals to row pins, utilizing HEX codes to control individual LEDs. Users can generate these codes manually or via online tools to display characters, numbers, or custom patterns like countdowns or messages.

Parts used in the Interfacing on a 8x8 Dot Matrix Project:

  • AT89C51 Microcontroller
  • 8x8 Dot Matrix Display
  • Development Board or Dot Matrix Module

What is Led matrix Types of Dot matrix display with working

Interfacing on a 8×8 dot matrix can be fun and is easy to play with, so let’s get straight into it!

Step 1: What You Will Need:

AT89C51 MICRCONTROLLER

8X8 DOT MATRIX

A DEVELOPMENT BOARD OR

DOT MATRIX MODULE

Step 2: Principles You Need to Know

Principles You Need to Know

Before getting to interfacing anything you need to have some
background knowledge of how it all works. The dot matrix display has 64 LEDs and evenly grouped into 8 columns and 8 rows.

Looking at the diagram 1, for the LED in column 1, row 1
to be on, there has to be a HIGH (1) sent to Pin 13 and a LOW(0) sent to Pin 9. Similarly, for the LED in column 5, row 7 to be on, a HIGH has to be sent to Pin 6 and a low to Pin 2.

There are many programs online that could help you create the HEX value for the character, number or shape you want to display on the LED Display. Or you can calculate the HEX value by drawing small circles on a piece of paper in the form of an 8×8 dot matrix and then shade the ones you want to turn as shown in diagram 2.

The HEX code to display a “1” is {0x00,0x00,0x80,0xfe,0x84,0x00,0x00,0x00}.
So for this code, take it we start from the bottom right corner, right where it says “column 1, row 1”. For the first two columns the code is 0x00. In the third column, the value is 0x80, which is 1000 0000 in binary. So the first LED in the third column will be on. Then for the fourth column, we have 0xFE so all LEDs will be on except the last one since its binary code is 1111 1110. And in the fifth column we have 0x84,which is 1000 0100. So the first LED in row 1 and the sixth LED will be on. The last three columns will not be on because their respective values are all 0x00.So if you want to display a new character and you want to find out the HEX code for that, you can use this method to derive the HEX code.

Step 3: Time for Some Code

Since I am using a development board, I don’t need to make
any connections. If you don’t have a development board and can’t figure out how to make the connections, try find a Dot Matrix Module, to avoid the that problem. In this tutorial I provide code to display a countdown from 10 to 1 and a “I love u” characters on the display. You should be able to upload your hex code to your microcontroller. If everything goes well you should be able to get a countdown from 9 to 0 for the first code and “I love u” from the second.If your girl is the nerdy type, she will be flattered with the “I love u” display. If she isn’t she will still find it cute.

You can also create your own characters and play around with the display. Hope you enjoyed this tutorial and had fun!!!

Source: What is Led matrix? Types of Dot matrix display with working

Quick Solutions to Questions related to Interfacing on a 8x8 Dot Matrix Project:

  • What components are required for this project?
    The project requires an AT89C51 microcontroller, an 8x8 dot matrix, and either a development board or a dot matrix module.
  • How does the dot matrix display work?
    The display has 64 LEDs grouped into 8 columns and 8 rows; turning on a specific LED requires sending a HIGH signal to its column pin and a LOW signal to its row pin.
  • Can I calculate the HEX value for a character myself?
    Yes, you can calculate the HEX value by drawing small circles in an 8x8 format on paper and shading the ones you want to turn on.
  • What is the HEX code to display the number 1?
    The HEX code to display a 1 is {0x00,0x00,0x80,0xfe,0x84,0x00,0x00,0x00}.
  • What examples of programs are provided in the tutorial?
    The tutorial provides code to display a countdown from 10 to 1 and the characters "I love u".
  • Is a development board necessary for connections?
    No, if you do not have a development board, you can use a Dot Matrix Module to avoid connection issues.

About The Author

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 research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.

Follow Us:
LinkedinTwitter