mikem> I am currently working on a project which involves the design and (04/13/90)
development of a computerized display system. In essence, this system
will be a large, low resolution graphics display designed for outdoors.
The display matrix is only refreshed when a new image or text message is
to be shown, hence, the pixels are somewhat static. An existing system
after which this one is modeled is currently installed and working
reasonably well. It is very attractive, has a resolution of approximently
132 x 50 elements and uses what appears to be a high contrast liquid crystal
display or some similar technology (green pixels on a white background).
On possible solution for this project would be to just purchase another
one of these signs and be done with it, but the problem is that the sign
costs around $50,000 and exceeds the funds allocated for this project.
Does anyone know of some possible technologies which could be used
to "manufacture" a display matrix in one's "garage."? Any tips on existing
components, signs, and/or information leading to such would be very helpful.
Thanks in advance.
--
Michael Morris, Strategic Mapping Inc. {hpda,pyramid}!octopus!slp!mikemmikem> (04/13/90)
I am currently working on a project which involves the design and
development of a computerized display system. In essence, this system
will be a large, low resolution graphics display designed for outdoors.
The display matrix is only refreshed when a new image or text message is
to be shown, hence, the pixels are somewhat static. An existing system
after which this one is modeled is currently installed and working
reasonably well. It is very attractive, has a resolution of approximently
132 x 50 elements and uses what appears to be a high contrast liquid crystal
display or some similar technology (green pixels on a white background).
On possible solution for this project would be to just purchase another
one of these signs and be done with it, but the problem is that the sign
costs around $50,000 and exceeds the funds allocated for this project.
Does anyone know of some possible technologies which could be used
to "manufacture" a display matrix in one's "garage."? Any tips on existing
components, signs, and/or information leading to such would be very helpful.
Thanks in advance.
--
Michael Morris, Strategic Mapping Inc. {hpda,pyramid}!octopus!slp!mikemkassover@jupiter.crd.ge.com (David Kassover) (04/14/90)
In article <1990Apr13.015527.18538@Octopus.COM> writes: >development of a computerized display system. [Interesting stuff deleted] The City of Albany, NY has installed in it's main hi-rise tower (I think it's the South Mall) a system that controls the lights in every office, thus converting the ENTIRE building into a display. Readable on a good night from 10 miles away. I believe Boys Life published plans for an outdoor scoreboard based on homemade patchboards (coathangars), relays, Christmas tree lights, coffee cans and scrap shelving. This was a while ago. I haven't been a Boy Scout in 20 years. 8-) Not to scoff, though. You could possibly make friends with someone in airport construction and arrange to scarf up annunciator boards from renovated baggage claims... Most of the cost associated with such stuff is involved with assembling the display elements together. If you could find the manufacturer of the "pixels" and wire it together yourself, you might save a bit. I suspect you'd also find out why these things cost $50k 8-) -- =================================================== David Kassover kassover@ra.crd.ge.com kassover@crd.ge.com