So, I have 1000 red 2.2 v leds. The new kitt scanner had approx. 240 LED's, and I wanted to reproduce that scanner, with arduino, that way I could change the scan easily, however, I'm afraid that 240 LED's are too much to power via arduino. I could use 555 timers and such, as several Larson type scanners already use, but, I'd rather use Ardino! I love learning this amazing language.
I was thinking of making the LED's three tall, and 80 across. That should produce a nice effect behind tinted acrylic.
Any suggestions?
I'm sorry to be such a burden on the fabulous minds that frequent this forum!
The Arduino can handle this, although you will need a proper power source some additional circuitry to switch the necessary currents and drive the LED and to extend the number of ports available. A shift register like the 74HC595 or the MBI5026 might will probably work of simple on/off control of the LED. If you want to dim them individually, you might need a more expensive chip like the MBI5030, the TLC5940 or the MAX7317.
I am working on a project to build a Larson scanner. I am planning on 128 leds. I will be using MAX7219 and Arduino. I would like any help as to which Arduino board would be best for the controller and any other help to provide for external power, etc. I have worked on a few smaller projects like this but I am looking for a little bigger challenge. Thanks in advance for any help you provide.