8*8 dot matrix controlled by Nintendo DS Trackpad.

Other Hardware LEDs and Multiplexing
1

Hi guys. Apologies in advance if any of these questions seem a little simple or misguided, I'm completely new to electronics and programming.

For a university project I'm hoping to use a Nintendo DS touchpad to control the movement of lights on an 8*8 dot matrix.

The main components I have so far are:
-Arduino Uno
-Nintendo DS touchpad: http://images.excheap.com/imagecache/nintendo-ds-lite-ndsl-touch-screen-repair-parts-bl-1943310267.jpg
-8*8 dot matrix (anode) Dot Matrix LED - 8x8 Anode Row Display LC2088TW1A

I have pretty much found the exact coding and setup for the system here: http://allthemods.com/project.php?id=342&page=1

In the example however, a laptop touchpad is used, with 5 output (?) connections; +5v, NC, Data, Clock, Ground. As far as I'm aware they're all used in the code and setup. Is it possible to still use the Nintendo DS touchpad even though it has 4 connectors?

Also, I'm aware that I'll have to use an LED display driver, but there is no schematic diagram to show the exact setup. If anyone knows of any simple ways of setting this up or any circuit diagrams I'd be very grateful.

Once again, apologies if the information provided is a little basic. Thankyou in advance for any help provided.

S.

2

In the example however, a laptop touchpad is used, with 5 output (?) connections; +5v, NC, Data, Clock, Ground. As far as I'm aware they're all used in the code and setup. Is it possible to still use the Nintendo DS touchpad even though it has 4 connectors?

I could search for some pages I know exists and then link them to you but as I see it, you might as well do that - search for DS touchpad on the forum and you will find plenty of examples :slight_smile:

3

I've searched and found the correct connections for it, thanks for the hint.

For the coding, this is the closest I can find http://arduino.cc/forum/index.php/topic,14999.0.html which has been helpful, but I still feel a little out of my depth. Any hints on coding?

S.

4

Not sure what else you're expecting. Try that code from the link on that page which should throw out some values when you have it connected up. From there you should be able to work out what the values are doing and what you might want to us. By connecting your LED matrix behind you can read what values the touch screen gives in different points (should only need 2 corners if the matrix is straight) and then map from that to light up your LEDs.
Look up the map function and then you should be all set to code it.