TM1628 16 Key 8 Digit LED Module

Other Hardware 3rd Party Boards
1

I bought a couple of these modules a several years ago, because I was enamored with LED displays in general and because these were very inexpensive. I was able to get a Nano to read the keys correctly and display numbers on the LEDs. So, now that I know how to make them work, I now face the problem of what to do with them. So here are a couple of requests:

  1. Has anyone found a good application or use (other than a calculator) for this module?
  2. Does anyone know a source for square key caps for the 6 x 6 x 4.3 mm switches on the board? A lot of these cheap devices use those PC Board switches, and I would like a way to make the buttons more attractive. Buying a 3D printer for button tops on a $2 board seems a little impractical. I would especially like square key caps that have a clear key cap cover so I could slip a small piece of paper under the cover to identify the button.
2

I think you mean the TM1638 QYF module. (not TM1628). I have one as well. Not found a practical application yet, but would most likely use it for an alarm pad of some sort or perhaps for a pad with function keys that can control software on my PC.

Be warned: buying a 3D-printer may lead to using it for many, many more purposes. Once you have one in house you'll get plenty opportunity to use it for various parts. I've used it for project housings, to fix things in my house, to print a tool, etc. etc..

3

Thanks. I appreciate your observation about the printer.

4

I use it as a remote for my Flip-dot clock project:

tm1638_dde
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