| Hewlett Packard Three Digit Smart LED Display (Unknown P/N.) |
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| Written by AnubisTTP on 2009-09-03 |
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This device probably ranks as one of the most archaic LED displays we have ever seen: a three-digit smart display in a hermetic metal package. The most unusual aspect of this device is the use of a separate BCD driver IC for each digit; nearly every multi-digit smart LED display uses a single chip to drive all of the digits, to save on silicon. The digits in this device are somewhat stylized--each is equipped with an extra row of LED dies to allow for the generation of more natural representations of the '4' digit. Very few displays offer this feature, as it significantly increases the number of dies necessary to display a digit. The choice of a metal enclosure is not purely a cosmetic one; this device pulls nearly 400ma of current while in operation, and the heat generated is not insignificant. The aluminum heatsink shown in the photo is not an optional accessory, but necessary to keep the device from being consumed by its own thermal waste.
A three digit LED with integrated BCD decoders. Part number is unknown. If you can identify this device, please contact us.
BCD decoder IC at 20x magnification.
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