too much to put in subject

[azadder]

I've got this computer given to me from a guy I know because he didn't want to do anything with it. He couldn't get any OS to install on it. I took it apart, hooked up motherboard, power, and cd-rom and installed Linspire (4.5.499) with no problems.

Anyway, I plan on putting this rig in my Jeep (I'll make a modified case). I am going to use it as a 2nd (more interactive) media hub (I've got a music/dvd player with screens). I want this PC to control a set of LED's to display custom messages on the back of my truck (that's the cool part).

Now, to my questions : I know next to nothing about doing my own circuitry (circuitboard designs/resistors/anode,cathode/power/ground). The led display I plan on making will be 5 x 20 (or so).

What type of LEDs (and or other hardware) would I need to make this circuit?
How can I connect this display to my computer?
How would I be able to control it? (I don't have a problem with coding - just not sure what programs I would need)

I guess that's about the end of it. I posted this in hardware because this requires a lot of hardware... and ... well - didn't see a better place to post. Thanks for all replies.

 

[WizAtWork]

Check This Out.....

http://www.batteryspace.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=1147

WizAtWork

 

[azadder]

Yeah, that is pretty cool. That kind of goes around the whole "using my computer" thing, though. I really want to build this all myself. I'm just lost at which direction to take.

 

[adehh]

http://www.electronicdisplays.com/prodcat/detail.asp?id=655

These even come with their own PC software for controlling, quite expensive although.

http://www.acscontrol.com/Index_ACS.asp?Page=/Pages/Products/Lcd/128x64 LCD_Display_Terminal.htm

I've seen some that connect to a PC via the serial port, so they can even be controlled from HyperTerminal!

But seriously, I'd go for buying an LCD panel pre-made than trying to make your own! Probably be able to find some instructions on the Internet somewhere, doubt it will be easy though.

Good luck to ya!

 

[azadder]

thank you - if i get something going, I will post pics