Converting text to rolling "LED-style" matrix

[cds195]

Hi,

I have a linear array (1x16) of laser diodes which I'd like to be able to write text with (by illuminating a moving substrate with them). I have written straightforward labVIEW code to switch the elements on and off, but it is not trivial to obtain sequential patterns as the diodes are controlled by a shift register (much in the same way as ink-jet printers). Does anyone have any idea of how to convert a word or line of text to the appropriate code to save me "hard-wiring" it every time?

Many thanks in anticipation!

Craig.

[MikeS81]

Hi Craig,

you can create a buffer for all characters. With this buffer you can go through your text, load the stored matrix and show it line by line.

Hope it helps.

Mike

[jcarmody]

There's a Scrolling LED XControl that may provide some insight into what you're trying to do.

[cds195]

Mike,

Thanks for the reply. How do I create a buffer for characters? How do I convert a text chracter to a matrix? I only seem to be able to "convert string to unsigned byte", which gives a unique 8-bit number for each letter. But there's obviously no correlation between these numbers and the way the letter appears.

thanks,

Craig.

[MikeS81]

Hi Craig,

your buffer should be a boolean array like in the xControl example. Depending on the current character you load the according boolean array and show it line by line.

See the attached example please.

Hope it helps.

Mike

[cds195]

Thanks Mike, I'll give it a go!

Craig.