Hi, I'm really at the very beginning of what could be a very long project. I'm hoping to build a table with an 8x8 8x8 led matrix display. i'm also hoping to make some games to play on it. For the moment though my question is regarding how to get the matrix running on 3 leads (plus GND) my understanding is that the easiest way is to use a MAX72XX but i've looked at these and they seem kind of expensive. from what i've read - and it did confuse me a bit - i can also use a PIC16f690 but this will need to be programmed. i've looked at a schematic and i can't see a problem wiring it up but it's what to do with it after that. i've built a 3x3 matrix today (8x8 didn't come in post) and i've been writing some sketches for it but if i'm going to build anything of any size i need to simplify the outputs (and possibly include a/some router/s to drive those???).
i have a mega clone and a genuine uno. i'm wondering if i can turn the uno into a programmer and use a ready built program (and if so where to get one) and just plug and program the chips. i don't really mind if i have to 'get my hands dirty' and learn to program PICs too but if there's a shortcut...
ah, okay... just got 5 for £5.49 ($8ish).. bargain.
thanks