simple clock project

icandrawem2

everyone bear with me because im kinda new to this stuff...i want to build a device that controls a seven segment LED clock display, specifically a SLED-4C from rentron.com if any of you are familiar.· i want to program the display to run thru a custom "message" as soon as it is triggered with a contact closure from a show control unit.· any help is appreciated. thanks

Mike Green

Have you looked at Rentron's website? Have you looked at their webpage on the SLED-C4C? Have you downloaded and looked at their examples and documentation including specifically examples for the Stamp? Once you've worked through their example, see if you still have any questions. It's pretty complete.

icandrawem2

so do i need to buy a basic stamp? i have read all the documentation and their sample code so i think i can handle the actual programming, i just didnt know what else i needed besides the display to make this work. i also want to connect the small display to a large display with 4-5" digits if possible, i may need an external power supply for that though. thanks

Mike Green

At some point you will need some kind of microcontroller and a Stamp would work fine. If you don't buy some kind of development board, you will need other attached circuitry (like a power supply, RS232 or USB to TTL logic interface for programming, a reset button, etc.)

If you'll want to build a compact device on your own board later, get a Stamp and the Board of Education (Serial or USB). If you want something cheaper to learn with, get a Basic Stamp Activity Kit which you can get from Parallax or Radio Shack. That's designed to run off a 9V battery. You'll need a USB to serial adapter if your PC only has USB. I recommend Parallax's or one from FTDI or Keyspan's High Speed adapter. Others may or may not work for programming the Stamp.