pic seven segment shift
Hi,
I am working on this type of system too. But I need to control only 17 seven segment displays. I have two plans in my head and I need to verify which one is easier, cost effective and efficient.
Solution1:-
Use 4511 for each display. connect 4 pins with all 4511's A,B,C,D pins. And then connect each pin to LE (storage pin of 4511). Each time the value changes of a perticular display, you just low the LE pin of that display.Then change the value of the previous 4 pins connected to all A,B,C,D pins. Again high the LE pin. it is done.
It is also good for long distance set up since the output voltage depends upon Vcc, so you can control perticular Vcc of each 4511 for each display. And its Vcc range is 3v to 18v.
It will take total 4pins (for A,B,C,D)+ 36 pins (for 36 LE pins) = 40 I/O. Then you need 2 PIC 16f877a.
Solution2:-
Intersils' ICM7218 and ICM7228 controls 8 seven segment. You need 4 of those ICs and your PIC. nothing else.
But you need to use sepserate voltage amplifier if the distance of the displays and the controller is long .
Please tell me if there any other better idea to control 17 or 36 segments.