64 8x8 LED matrix boards for connection machine 2 case mod

Projects General Guidance
1

Hi,

I´m planning to build a scale model of a connection machine 2 as a computer case mod.
The main feature of this machine are the LED´s on the front that will (on the original) show the activity of the nodes.

My casemod will have 8 2x4 panels to give me a total of 64 8x8 panels (4K LED´s :D)
But I don´t know what would be the best way to control them, just like the original it should look like its indicating activity.
So I want it to look like they randomly turn on and off, preferably having at least 50% of them at all time.

The main thing I´m looking at now is how to connect this many panels and LED to a arduino (and which arduino should i get)

PS: It doesn't have to display anything like text or numbers though if this is easy to do then I might as well incorporate it.


(connection machine 2)

2

preferably having at least 50% of them at all time.

50% of 4000 LEDs is 2000. How much current do 2000 LEDs need? How are you planning to supply that much current?

3

Here are some power supply choices:
For the Unos (unless you roll your own standalone), a 7.5V supply
http://www.dipmicro.com/store/DCA-07510

For MAX7219s driving 8x8 matrices, 5V, 4A supplies.
http://www.mpja.com/5-Volt-DC-Plug-Power-Supply-4A-Regulated/productinfo/18520%20PS/

Connect all grounds.
You can go with 4 Unos each controlling 16 MAX7219s, see the parolo library that has been discussed here recently. Or make your own version.