Extensive project I need some help with...

[Erazorz23]

Hey all, new to the forum and hoping to find some experts that can help me with the following project.

Here's what I'm trying to do:

I want to make a scrolling stock ticker in my house that I can hook up to my computer to update quotes on a constant feed. Much like the ones you would see at a major financial corporation, just on a smaller scale.

From the research I've done, It seems as if the easiest way would be to link a bunch of pre assembled bi-color dot matrix displays into a long array, and then use a processor to decode and scroll the information.

However, I'm unsure about several of the specifics, such as how to link several dot matrix displays, what kind of processor to use once they're linked, and how to transfer the information from my computer to the sign.

I know I haven't given you guys much to work with, but any information you can offer will be greatly appreciated, and we can get more specific as the topic dictates. Thanks in advance...

-Mike

 

[Meridian]

Hey all, new to the forum and hoping to find some experts that can help me with the following project.

Here's what I'm trying to do:

I want to make a scrolling stock ticker in my house that I can hook up to my computer to update quotes on a constant feed. Much like the ones you would see at a major financial corporation, just on a smaller scale.

From the research I've done, It seems as if the easiest way would be to link a bunch of pre assembled bi-color dot matrix displays into a long array, and then use a processor to decode and scroll the information.

However, I'm unsure about several of the specifics, such as how to link several dot matrix displays, what kind of processor to use once they're linked, and how to transfer the information from my computer to the sign.

I know I haven't given you guys much to work with, but any information you can offer will be greatly appreciated, and we can get more specific as the topic dictates. Thanks in advance...

-Mike

Hi Mike, you're definately in the wrong topic area, hence no reponses i guess.

The project you're refering to is complex and no longer considered a small hobby project, IMHO. I suggest to copy-and-paste your message in a new topic and appropriate area... :|

 

[jonw0224]

From your original post, it sounds like you've gotten a handle on getting the information to the computer.

The question is then (1) how do I communicate the data from the computer to a microcontroller and then (2) how do I use the microcontroller to control the display?

Communicating with the microcontroller can be done easiest using a standard serial port. Many microcontrollers have serial port modules built in. Usually you will need to use a level converter such as the MAX232. For help in PC programming, level converters, and microcontrollers, this link may be useful:



Also, there is an extensive thread on the board about building a display:



Hope that helps!

-jonathan

btw - a more descriptive post heading may help get you more readers.