Building an Octoscroller Matrix Display

Overview

An "octoscroller" is simply a message display that happens to use a BeagleBoneBlack microcomputer (abbreviated BBB in this document), an 8-port "octoscroller" daughter card that plugs onto the BBB, and inexpensive RGB LED panels of the P-10 type. Powered by low-voltage DC power supplies (5vdc), these units are connected together by short ribbon cables with plug-in IDC connectors and controlled by the same marvelous Falcon Player that runs on the Raspberry Pi. The P-10 panels are particularly well suited for displaying moving text but can also display low-definition pictures and video. The budget for the project outlined here was a very affordable $200. Understand that this Wiki document is only ONE way to build a matrix display; it is not the ONLY way.

Skills you'll need to have

• Working understanding of using XLights/Nutcracker to create and save sequences.
• Working understanding of how to use your Internet browser
• Working understanding of basic TCP/IP networking
• Working understanding of how to download software, unzip/install it
• Working understanding of how to use SD Card formatting software and disk imaging software
• Working understanding of how to use and configure Falcon Player software
• Working understanding of basic electrical connectivity issues of low voltage electronics.
• Working skills with common household tools.

Note: by "working" it is meant that you can actually can DO these things, not merely having heard or read about them once. This document will not teach you how to do electronics or how to configure TCP/IP networking, how to use your computer or how to format a flash drive, etc. These are expected skills that you should either have before you attempt working on this project or skills that you will need to acquire during this project.

Materials/Components you'll need

• BeagleBone Black microcomputer and suitable A/C power supply
• Octoscroller daughter card
• 4 P-10 RGB LED panels
• Assorted ribbon connection cables (purchased with the panels)
• 5amp 5vdc power supply (for the panels)
• Angled aluminum stock
• 3M VHB tape

Software tools you'll need

• XLights/Nutcracker
• Falcon Player
• Appropriate version of Linux for the Falcon Player
• Internet browser (to connect to the BBB and control the Falcon Player)