In this project, we’ll learn how to create a scrolling text smart display using an Arduino microcontroller and a 6×6 Dot Matrix Display (DMD) module. This project is a great way to explore the capabilities of these components and learn about digital displays and Arduino programming.
Imagine walking past a digital display that updates in real-time, displaying important messages, animations, or even your favorite quotes. With advancements in microcontrollers like Arduino, building such a display is not only possible but also a fantastic learning experience. One exciting project to dive into is the Smart Display Board Using a 6×6 Dot Matrix with Arduino, powered by the MAX7219 driver module.
In this project, we’ll guide you through the steps of setting up a 6×6 dot matrix display to show custom text, patterns, or even animations, all controlled via an Arduino Uno. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have a fully functional smart display board that can be used in various applications, such as notice boards, signs, or home decor. Let’s dive in!
Components Required
Before we begin, you’ll need the following components to build the smart display board:
- Arduino Uno: The microcontroller that will be responsible for processing and controlling the display.
- 6×6 Dot Matrix LED Display: This is the main display unit where your text or animations will be shown.
- MAX7219 Driver Module: A dedicated driver that simplifies the control of the dot matrix display, reducing the number of pins needed from the Arduino.
- Jumper Wires: To connect the components together.
- Power Supply (5V): To power the Arduino and the display module.
How the System Works
The 6×6 Dot Matrix Display consists of a grid of LEDs that can be turned on or off to form patterns or characters. Each LED in the matrix is controlled by the MAX7219 driver module, which communicates with the Arduino. The MAX7219 reduces the complexity of controlling multiple LEDs, as it allows you to control the entire 6×6 grid with just a few pins on the Arduino.
Here’s the basic workflow:
- Arduino: The Arduino Uno runs the code that controls what is displayed on the 6×6 matrix.
- MAX7219 Module: This module drives the individual LEDs on the matrix, turning them on or off based on the instructions from the Arduino.
- Display Output: The dot matrix displays text or patterns in real-time, as programmed by the Arduino.
Circuit Diagram and Connections
To make the system work, you’ll need to wire the components correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to connecting the 6×6 dot matrix, the MAX7219 module, and the Arduino Uno:
- VCC on the MAX7219 → 5V on the Arduino
- GND on the MAX7219 → GND on the Arduino
- DIN (Data In) on the MAX7219 → Pin 11 on the Arduino (for data input)
- CLK (Clock) on the MAX7219 → Pin 13 on the Arduino (for sending clock signals)
- CS (Chip Select) on the MAX7219 → Pin 10 on the Arduino (for selecting the module)
You can cascade as many of these by connecting the input on your module to the output. As shown in the circuit diagram above. Once you have everything wired up, you’re ready to start programming!
The Arduino Source Code
Now that the hardware is set up, it’s time to write the Arduino code to control the dot matrix display. The code will allow you to send text, characters, or even scrolling messages to the matrix. For this project, we will use the LedControl library to simplify communication between the Arduino and the MAX7219 module.
Step 1: Installing the LedControl Library
The first step is to install the LedControl library. Open the Arduino IDE, go to Sketch → Include Library → Manage Libraries, and search for “LedControl”. Install it before proceeding.
Step 2: Basic Code Structure To Test The Dot Matrix Display
Here’s a simple code example to display a static message or pattern on the 6×6 dot matrix display.
#include <LedControl.h>
// Define pin connections
LedControl lc = LedControl(11, 13, 10, 1); // (DIN, CLK, CS, number of MAX7219)
void setup() {
lc.shutdown(0, false); // Wake up MAX7219
lc.setIntensity(0, 8); // Set brightness level (0-15)
lc.clearDisplay(0); // Clear the display
displayPattern(); // Call a function to display a pattern
}
void loop() {
// Nothing here
}
// Function to display a custom pattern on the 6x6 dot matrix
void displayPattern() {
lc.setLed(0, 1, 1, true); // Turn on individual LEDs (row, column, state)
lc.setLed(0, 2, 2, true);
lc.setLed(0, 3, 3, true);
// Add more LED controls as needed
}
In the above code example, we set up the MAX7219 to control the 6×6 matrix, adjust the brightness, and display a simple pattern. You can modify the setLed() function to turn on specific LEDs, creating different patterns.
Step 3: Coding A Scrolling Text
To display a scrolling text on the 6×6 dot matrix, we used the following code:
void scrollMessage(const char *message) {
for (int i = 0; i < strlen(message); i++) {
lc.clearDisplay(0);
// Use an array of predefined characters to display each letter
// Add code to scroll through the message
}
}
Alternatively, you can use the Adafruit GFX library to program this same circuit. You have to also install the Max72xx Arduino library too. We have included an example code that displays the String text “Hello World”.
If you want to simulate this display on just a circuit IDE like Proteus. You can follow the blog post done on our sister website here to get that. It details the step-by-step process of simulating the display using Proteus IDE and the Arduino library.
#include <SPI.h>
#include <Adafruit_GFX.h>
#include <Max72xxPanel.h>
int pinCS = 10;
int numberOfHorizontalDisplays = 3;
int numberOfVerticalDisplays = 1;
Max72xxPanel matrix = Max72xxPanel(pinCS, numberOfHorizontalDisplays,numberOfVerticalDisplays);
String tape = "Hello World";
int wait = 50;
int spacer = 1;
int width = 5 + spacer;
void setup() {
matrix.setIntensity(7);
}
void loop() {
for ( int i = 0; i < width * tape.length() + matrix.width () -1 - spacer; i++){
matrix.fillScreen(LOW);
int letter = i/width;
int x = (matrix.width() - 1) - i % width;
int y = (matrix.height() - 8)/ 2;
while (x + width - spacer >= 0 && letter >= 0)
{
if (letter < tape.length())
{
matrix.drawChar(x, y, tape[letter], HIGH,LOW, 1);
}
letter--;
x -= width;
}
matrix.write();
delay(wait);
}
}Applications of the Smart Display Board
This smart display board using a 6×6 dot matrix has a wide range of applications, from personal projects to practical implementations in public spaces. Here are a few ideas for how to use it:
- Digital Notice Board: Display important updates or announcements in schools, offices, or public places.
- Home Automation: Integrate the display with a smart home system to show notifications, time, or weather updates.
- Creative Art: Use the matrix to display animations or artistic patterns, making a unique digital art display.
- Signage: Build custom signage for shops or events with real-time information.
- Educational Projects: Teach programming and electronics by showing students how to manipulate the dot matrix display.
Conclusion
Building a Smart Display Board Using a 6×6 Dot Matrix with Arduino is an exciting and rewarding project that enhances your understanding of microcontrollers, electronics, and display systems. With the help of the MAX7219 driver module, controlling multiple LEDs becomes simpler, allowing you to focus on creating dynamic and creative visual displays. Whether for a personal project, an educational tool, or a public sign, this project is versatile and scalable.
You can leave us a comment below if you have any further questions. Now that you know how to build a smart display board, the possibilities are endless. Start experimenting with different patterns, scrolling messages, or even animations. Happy building!
FAQs on Smart Display
Can I use a larger dot matrix for this project?
Yes, you can use larger matrices like 8×8 or combine multiple 6×6 matrices. The MAX7219 driver module can control up to 64 LEDs, and you can daisy-chain additional matrices for larger displays.
How do I increase the brightness of the display?
You can increase the brightness by adjusting the setIntensity() function in the code. The intensity can be set between 0 (lowest) and 15 (highest).
Can I display animations on the dot matrix?
Yes! You can create simple animations by updating the matrix display in quick succession. Use loops in the Arduino code to show different patterns over time.
Is it possible to use other microcontrollers instead of Arduino?
Absolutely. You can use other microcontrollers like ESP8266 or ESP32. Just make sure to adapt the wiring and code to be compatible with your microcontroller.
Can this system be powered by batteries?
Yes, you can use batteries to power the system, but make sure they provide enough voltage (5V) to run both the Arduino and the MAX7219 module.
