How to Use Adafruit 7 Segment FeatherWing - White: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Adafruit 7 Segment FeatherWing - White (Manufacturer Part ID: 3109) is a compact display module featuring seven-segment LEDs. It is specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with Adafruit Feather boards, providing a simple and efficient way to display numerical data. This module is ideal for applications requiring visual output, such as counters, timers, clocks, and sensor data displays.

• Digital clocks and timers
• Sensor data visualization
• Numerical counters
• Battery voltage or current displays
• Debugging and testing for Feather-based projects

• Manufacturer: Adafruit
• Part ID: 3109
• Display Type: 7-segment LED
• LED Color: White
• Driver Chip: HT16K33 I2C LED driver
• Input Voltage: 3.3V or 5V (compatible with Feather boards)
• Communication Protocol: I2C
• Default I2C Address: 0x70 (configurable via solder jumpers)
• Dimensions: 50.8mm x 22.8mm x 7.2mm (2.0" x 0.9" x 0.3")
• Weight: 5.4g

The FeatherWing connects directly to the Feather board via its headers. However, the following table describes the key pins and their functions:

1. Hardware Setup:

   • Plug the Adafruit 7 Segment FeatherWing directly into the Feather board's headers.
   • Ensure the Feather board is powered via USB or a battery.
   • If using multiple FeatherWings, configure unique I2C addresses by soldering the A0, A1, or A2 jumpers.

2. Software Setup:

   • Install the Adafruit HT16K33 library in your Arduino IDE:
     1. Open the Arduino IDE.
     2. Go to Sketch > Include Library > Manage Libraries.
     3. Search for "Adafruit LED Backpack Library" and install it.
   • Include the library in your Arduino sketch.

3. Basic Arduino Code Example: Below is an example code snippet to display numbers on the FeatherWing:

   // Include the Adafruit LED Backpack library
   #include <Wire.h>
   #include <Adafruit_GFX.h>
   #include <Adafruit_LEDBackpack.h>
   
   // Create an instance of the 7-segment display
   Adafruit_7segment display = Adafruit_7segment();
   
   void setup() {
     // Initialize the display with the default I2C address (0x70)
     display.begin(0x70);
   
     // Display a startup message
     display.print(1234); // Display "1234" on the 7-segment
     display.writeDisplay();
     delay(2000); // Wait for 2 seconds
   }
   
   void loop() {
     // Example: Display a counter that increments every second
     static int counter = 0;
   
     display.print(counter); // Display the current counter value
     display.writeDisplay(); // Update the display
     delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second
     counter++; // Increment the counter
   }
   

• Power Supply: Ensure the Feather board provides sufficient power for the display. If using multiple FeatherWings, consider external power sources.
• I2C Address Conflicts: If using multiple I2C devices, ensure each has a unique address by adjusting the A0, A1, and A2 jumpers.
• Viewing Angle: The white LEDs are bright and clear, but ensure the display is positioned for optimal visibility in your application.
• Heat Management: While the module is efficient, prolonged use at high brightness may generate heat. Avoid excessive brightness settings if unnecessary.

1. Can I use this FeatherWing with non-Adafruit boards?

   • Yes, as long as the board supports I2C communication and provides 3.3V or 5V power, you can use this module. However, you may need to use jumper wires instead of directly plugging it in.

2. How do I change the I2C address?

   • Solder the A0, A1, or A2 jumpers on the back of the FeatherWing to configure a new address. Refer to the HT16K33 datasheet for address mapping.

3. What is the maximum number of FeatherWings I can use simultaneously?

   • Up to 8 FeatherWings can be used on the same I2C bus, provided each has a unique address.

4. Can I dim the LEDs?

   • Yes, the HT16K33 driver supports brightness control. Use the display.setBrightness() function in your code to adjust the brightness level (0-15).

By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate and utilize the Adafruit 7 Segment FeatherWing - White in your projects.