Adafruit 0.56 4-Digit 7-Segment Display w/I2C Backpack - Red

What could be better than a single LED? A whole bunch of them! A cool way to create a small display is by using an 8x8 matrix or a 4-digit 7-segment display. These matrices are 'multiplexed', which means you need 14 pins to control all the seven-segment LEDs. That's a lot of pins, and while there are driver chips like the MAX7219, they require a lot of wiring and take up a lot of space. At Adafruit, we understand your pain! Imagine being able to control a matrix without all that wiring. That's where these cute LED matrix backpacks come in. We offer two types: a mini 8x8 and a 4-digit 0.56' 7-segment. They work great with the matrices in our Adafruit shop, making it easy to add a bright little display. The matrices use a driver chip that does all the hard work for you. They have a built-in clock to multiplex the display. They use constant-current drivers for super-bright, consistent color (the images above are taken at the dimmest setting to avoid overloading our camera!), and 1/16 step display dimming, all through a simple I2C interface. The backpacks come with address-selection jumpers, allowing you to connect up to four mini 8x8's or eight 7-segments (or a combination) on a single I2C bus. The product kit includes a fully tested and assembled LED backpack, an ultra-bright 4-digit 0.56' tall red seven-segment display, and a 4-pin header. A little soldering is needed to attach the matrix to the backpack, but it's very easy and only takes about 5 minutes. As usual at Adafruit, we have a detailed tutorial on how to solder, wire, and control the display. We've also written a great library for the backpacks, so you can start displaying images on the matrix or numbers on the 7-segment in under half an hour. If you've been interested in matrix displays but were put off by the complexity, this is the solution you've been waiting for!

Using this product is a breeze. First, you'll need to do a bit of soldering to attach the matrix onto the backpack. It's easy and should only take about 5 minutes. After that, connect the backpack using the I2C interface. You can use the address-selection jumpers to connect multiple displays on a single I2C bus. We've provided a detailed library to help you get up and running quickly. Just follow our tutorial and you'll be displaying images on the matrix or numbers on the 7-segment in under half an hour. As for maintenance, keep the display clean and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or moisture. If you run into any issues, refer to our support resources or reach out to our team. Have fun with your new display!