MAX7219 Clocks
Clocks built on the MAX7219 chip, which drives a row of seven-segment displays (or an LED matrix) over one serial interface.
Key part: MAX7219 LED matrix module (kit photo still needed)
Key Features
- Uses the MAX7219 LED Matrix / 7-Segment
- Uses the Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040
Key Benefits
- Free, open lessons. The Clocks and Watches textbook has the kit page, wiring, and MicroPython code.
- Classroom friendly. Built on a solderless breadboard or no-solder connectors.
- Instant feedback. Students see their code's results on lights or a display.
- Budget. About $10 (8-digit module about $1.45 on eBay; Pico $4, breadboard $2, wires $1, USB cable $2).
Parts
| Part (price) | Role |
| Raspberry Pi Pico ($4) | Microcontroller |
| MAX7219 LED Matrix / 7-Segment | Display |
| 830-Point Breadboard ($1.10) | Breadboard |
| Micro-USB Data Cable ($2.50) | Power and programming cable |
Microcontroller listed first. Prices shown only where known; see the source book for quantities, wiring, and current prices.
About this kit: From the Clocks and Watches collection.
Source: Clocks and Watches
Source: Clocks and Watches