Question 1

How do I connect a MAX7219 to an ESP32 using this library?

Accepted Answer

Follow the ESP32 example in the README: use SPI with pins like D2 for MOSI, D5 for CS, and D4 for SCK, and set baudrate to 10000000 with polarity=1 and phase=0. Ensure proper 5V and GND connections as per the wiring table.

Question 2

What's the maximum number of matrices I can cascade?

Accepted Answer

The library supports cascading multiple matrices, with examples for up to 8. The limit depends on SPI capabilities and power, but you can specify the number in the Matrix8x8 constructor, and it adjusts the display width accordingly.

Question 3

How can I scroll text on the LED display?

Accepted Answer

Use the scroll method inherited from framebuf, as shown in the PyBoard examples. Call display.scroll(-8,0) to shift content left, then update with display.show() to render the changes.

Question 4

Can I use this library with CircuitPython instead of MicroPython?

Accepted Answer

No, this library is specifically for MicroPython and relies on MicroPython's SPI and framebuf modules. For CircuitPython, you'd need to find or port a different driver, as the ecosystems are not directly compatible.

Question 5

Why is my LED matrix flickering on ESP8266?

Accepted Answer

This is likely due to baud rate issues. Lower the SPI baudrate to 10MHz as recommended in the ESP8266 example to ensure stable communication, since the default 80MHz rate introduces errors.

Question 6

How does micropython-max7219 compare to Arduino libraries for MAX7219?

Accepted Answer

This library is tailored for MicroPython environments, offering similar functionality but with MicroPython's syntax and framebuf integration. Arduino libraries might have more features or community support, but this is optimal for MicroPython projects on boards like ESP32.

Question 7

How to adjust the brightness of the LEDs?

Accepted Answer

Use the brightness method on the display object, e.g., display.brightness(0) for minimum or values up to 15. This is shown in the ESP8266 example and leverages the MAX7219's software-controlled brightness feature.

micropython-max7219

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