|
|||||||
|
|
|
|||||
|
|
|||||||
In June 2004, Sir robert sent me pictures of his newly-made dashboard digital voltmeter. I commend Robert for his relentless labors in pursuing his journey 'till the end...as it turned out well. Below is Robert's own words and pictures of his maiden voyage!
Robert's Dashboard Digital Voltmeter Project
I used a blank pre-drilled circuit board and I spray painted the front of it black. I used sockets for the main IC's. I used enamel coated wire for the traces. I chose this because it is small and easy to put into place around other components. The part count was few so it was not too difficult.
I used common power for both halves of the circuit. The top one measures the primary battery and the bottom measures the auxiliary. I have now put a piece of acrylic on the front of it just to provide some protection. I chose to leave it open to show the effectiveness of this circuit. The displays are blue.
I am toying with the idea of putting some tinting on the plexiglas to give it a more diffused look. I am now thinking about using the same circuit, to make a dual thermometer. Instead though I think I will use a multiplexed LED display, probably green, to simplify the hookups.
I am having trouble though deciding on the thermistor to use and how to interface it. I thought of just putting it inline between Vcc and the input pin. But I am uncertain which value to use. So far the only thing I know for sure is that I need an NTC type.
In retrospect, I have had the circuit in use for about one month. The point-to-point wiring worked fine at first, however several mistakes have popped up. Mainly, just dimming of certain segments and some going out completely. There is more to solder with.
I would suggest that anybody who wants to attempt this project, should stay away from wires and use normal copper clad circuit boards.
Should you need help with your DDV venture, do not hesitate to call upon me for assistance! My e-mail address is...
...Robert
You are visitor number 210 as of June 15th, 2004
