I wasn’t totally happy with my previous attempt at this project so I recently revisited it with new option, new tech and a BUNCH of code added. So much so I’ve even opened up a Github page for it.
https://github.com/brad-maker/16×16-LED-Matrix
Its fair to say I’ve spent way too much time on it BUT its so much better now. With the now readily available and affordable pre-built matrix’s available I decided to build a new one as the old one was too sensitive to connection breaks. The matrix has solved this problem. I also sourced far better photo boxes which are black aluminium.
Add a recently acquired 3D printer to match my laser cutter and I’ve now got a far more “professional” finish to the unit. I also replace the Arduino 2560 Mega which a much more powerful ESP32 as it has far, far more memory and faster processor.
It also requires far less power and I can now run it fully using std USB power supplies and even my PC’s USB port.
The 3D printer allowed me to print a case for the ESP32 AND a pass-through grommet for the USB cable. The laser cutter of course lets me cut the 16 x 16 grid from some 3 ply which I painted black.
Last but not least I’ve added a tonne of new code with the entire sketch publically available on my Github page. The new code contains the LED Panel control webpage which allows you to connect to it either on your network or from your mobile phone. The code allows you to select any animation or effect at will including custom scrolling text. I’m VERY happy with the result but of course I already have ideas for tweaks and new content. Fortunately updating the code is as easy at writing it and uploading it via USB or Wifi.
