# Custom Scrolling Quote Board Matrix Display ## Overview https://youtu.be/kdMX7RnKkXg Quotes! Who doesn't love good quotes? But who's to decide which quotes are "good"? Well, you are, of course! Now, you can create your own quote board and supply the quotes for it yourself! No need to rely on a website and some other person's curatorial tastes. With this project, you'll create a custom quote feed right on Adafruit IO, then code your CircuitPython-powered WiFi RGB LED matrix to display your quotes in random order. ## Parts ### Adafruit Matrix Portal - CircuitPython Powered Internet Display [Adafruit Matrix Portal - CircuitPython Powered Internet Display](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4745) Folks love our [wide selection of RGB matrices](https://www.adafruit.com/category/327) and accessories, for making custom colorful LED displays... and our RGB Matrix Shields and FeatherWings can be quickly soldered together to make the wiring much easier. But what if we made it... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4745) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4745/guides) ![Video of a person rotating an LED matrix panel with animation resembling falling colored sand.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/product-videos/640x480/4745-05.jpg) ### Adafruit Metro M4 Express AirLift (WiFi) - Lite [Adafruit Metro M4 Express AirLift (WiFi) - Lite](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4000) Give your next project a lift with _AirLift_ - our witty name for the ESP32 co-processor that graces this Metro M4. You already know about the  **Adafruit Metro M4**  featuring the  **Microchip ATSAMD51** , with it's 120MHz Cortex M4 with... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4000) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4000/guides) ![Adafruit Metro M4 Airlift Lite dev board with SAMD51 an ESP32 Wifi Co-processor.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/4000-08.jpg) ### 64x32 RGB LED Matrix - 4mm pitch [64x32 RGB LED Matrix - 4mm pitch](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2278) Bring a little bit of Times Square into your home with this sweet 64 x 32 square RGB LED matrix panel. These panels are normally used to make video walls, here in New York we see them on the sides of busses and bus stops, to display animations or short video clips. We thought they looked... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2278) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2278/guides) ![Two white hands hold out an assembled and powered on 64x32 RGB LED Matrix Panel - 4mm pitch. The matrix displays "Adafruit Industries LED MATRIX! 32x64 *RGB*"](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/2278-00.jpg) ### Adafruit RGB Matrix Shield for Arduino [Adafruit RGB Matrix Shield for Arduino](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2601) Our RGB matrices are dazzling, with their hundreds or even _thousands_ of individual RGB LEDs. Compared to NeoPixels, they've got great density, power usage and the price-per-LED can't be beat. But...(isn't there always a _but_?) You need to use our special library to... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2601) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2601/guides) ![Adafruit RGB Matrix Shield for Arduino connected to a LED Matrix that reads "Adafruit Industries LED MATIX! 32x64 *RGB*"](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/2601-02.jpg) ### Black LED Diffusion Acrylic Panel 12" x 12" - 0.1" / 2.6mm thick [Black LED Diffusion Acrylic Panel 12" x 12" - 0.1" / 2.6mm thick](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4594) A nice whoppin' slab of some lovely black acrylic to add some extra diffusion to your LED Matrix project. This material is 2.6mm (0.1") thick and is made of special cast acrylic that makes it perfect for glowy projects, especially matricies or NeoPixels. Unlike smoke or... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4594) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4594/guides) ![LED RGB matrix 12" x 12" with "Adafruit Industries LED Matrix" text showing, and LED acrylic slowly covering to make it nicely diffused](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/product-videos/640x480/4594-04.jpg) ### 5V 2.5A Switching Power Supply with 20AWG MicroUSB Cable [5V 2.5A Switching Power Supply with 20AWG MicroUSB Cable](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1995) Our all-in-one 5V 2.5 Amp + MicroUSB cable power adapter is the perfect choice for powering single-board computers like Raspberry Pi, BeagleBone, or anything else that's power-hungry! This adapter was specifically designed to provide 5.25V, not 5V, but we still call it a 5V USB... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1995) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/1995/guides) ![MicroUSB power supply with bundled cable and U.S. plugs.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/1995-02.jpg) ### USB cable - USB A to Micro-B [USB cable - USB A to Micro-B](https://www.adafruit.com/product/592) This here is your standard A to micro-B USB cable, for USB 1.1 or 2.0. Perfect for connecting a PC to your Metro, Feather, Raspberry Pi or other dev-board or microcontroller Approximately 3 feet / 1 meter long In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/592) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/592/guides) ![USB cable - USB A to Micro-B - 3 foot long](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/592-01.jpg) # Custom Scrolling Quote Board Matrix Display ## Using M4 Airlift If you have a Metro M4 AirLift, you can build this project easily - you just need an RGB Matrix shield to help connect! You will need a Metro M4 Airlift, matrix shield and matrix ### Adafruit Metro M4 Express AirLift (WiFi) - Lite [Adafruit Metro M4 Express AirLift (WiFi) - Lite](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4000) Give your next project a lift with _AirLift_ - our witty name for the ESP32 co-processor that graces this Metro M4. You already know about the  **Adafruit Metro M4**  featuring the  **Microchip ATSAMD51** , with it's 120MHz Cortex M4 with... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4000) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4000/guides) ![Adafruit Metro M4 Airlift Lite dev board with SAMD51 an ESP32 Wifi Co-processor.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/4000-08.jpg) ### Adafruit RGB Matrix Shield for Arduino [Adafruit RGB Matrix Shield for Arduino](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2601) Our RGB matrices are dazzling, with their hundreds or even _thousands_ of individual RGB LEDs. Compared to NeoPixels, they've got great density, power usage and the price-per-LED can't be beat. But...(isn't there always a _but_?) You need to use our special library to... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2601) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2601/guides) ![Adafruit RGB Matrix Shield for Arduino connected to a LED Matrix that reads "Adafruit Industries LED MATIX! 32x64 *RGB*"](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/2601-02.jpg) ### 64x32 RGB LED Matrix - 4mm pitch [64x32 RGB LED Matrix - 4mm pitch](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2278) Bring a little bit of Times Square into your home with this sweet 64 x 32 square RGB LED matrix panel. These panels are normally used to make video walls, here in New York we see them on the sides of busses and bus stops, to display animations or short video clips. We thought they looked... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2278) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2278/guides) ![Two white hands hold out an assembled and powered on 64x32 RGB LED Matrix Panel - 4mm pitch. The matrix displays "Adafruit Industries LED MATRIX! 32x64 *RGB*"](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/2278-00.jpg) # Custom Scrolling Quote Board Matrix Display ## Install CircuitPython [CircuitPython](https://github.com/adafruit/circuitpython) is a derivative of [MicroPython](https://micropython.org) designed to simplify experimentation and education on low-cost microcontrollers. It makes it easier than ever to get prototyping by requiring no upfront desktop software downloads. Simply copy and edit files on the **CIRCUITPY** drive to iterate. ## Set up CircuitPython Quick Start! Follow this quick step-by-step for super-fast Python power :) [Download the latest version of CircuitPython for this board via circuitpython.org](https://circuitpython.org/board/metro_m4_airlift_lite/) ## Further Information For more detailed info on installing CircuitPython, check out [Installing CircuitPython](https://learn.adafruit.com/welcome-to-circuitpython/installing-circuitpython). **Click the link above and download the latest UF2 file.** Download and save it to your desktop (or wherever is handy). ![adafruit_products_MetroAirLiftCPDownload.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/074/832/medium640/adafruit_products_MetroAirLiftCPDownload.png?1556052786) Plug your Metro M4 into your computer using a known-good USB cable. **A lot of people end up using charge-only USB cables and it is very frustrating! So make sure you have a USB cable you know is good for data sync.** Double-click the **Reset** button next to the USB connector on your board (blue arrow), and you will see the NeoPixel RGB (LED circled in red) turn green. If it turns red, check the USB cable, try another USB port, etc. If double-clicking the Reset button doesn't work the first time, try again. Sometimes it can take a few tries to get the rhythm right! ![adafruit_products_one_one_one.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/125/965/medium640/adafruit_products_one_one_one.png?1699472441) You will see a new disk drive appear called **METROM4BOOT**.   Drag the **adafruit\_circuitpython\_etc.uf2** file to **METROM4BOOT.** ![adafruit_products_AirLift_METROM4BOOT.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/074/949/medium640/adafruit_products_AirLift_METROM4BOOT.png?1556211532) ![adafruit_products_AirLift_Drag_UF2.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/074/950/medium640/adafruit_products_AirLift_Drag_UF2.png?1556211541) The LED will flash. Then, the **METROM4BOOT** drive will disappear and a new disk drive called **CIRCUITPY** will appear. That's it, you're done! :) ![adafruit_products_AirLift_CIRCUITPY.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/074/951/medium640/adafruit_products_AirLift_CIRCUITPY.png?1556211595) # Custom Scrolling Quote Board Matrix Display ## Build the Quote Board Matrix Display ## Assembly Talking to an LED matrix display can be tricky! The 64 x 32 LED used here has a whopping 2,048 pixels, and each can display RGB colors, which makes for a whole lot of data to sling around. Thankfully, our RGB Matrix shield paired with the Metro M4 Airlift does most of the heavy lifting. Let's assemble the boards and the display so we can get things running! ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/022/medium800/led_matrices_onairbuild-3406.jpg?1597091957) ## Shields Up First, add the male headers, screw terminal block, and the 8x2-pin socket to the Matrix shield, by [following this guide](https://learn.adafruit.com/32x16-32x32-rgb-led-matrix/connecting-using-rgb-matrix-shield). Be careful to match the socket polarity to the silkscreen image on the board. Be sure to also perform the clock pin mod [as shown here](https://learn.adafruit.com/32x16-32x32-rgb-led-matrix/connecting-using-rgb-matrix-shield#metro-m4-usage-2991520-5). Then plug the shield into the Metro M4 Airlift. ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3407.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/014/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3407.jpg?1597091821) ## Power Connections To provide power, we'll screw the wiring harness connectors to the screw terminal blocks of the shield. Be sure to match the **black** wire to **GND** and the **red** wire to + **5Vout.** Now, simply plug the other end into the panel's power header. It can only go in one way. ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3408.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/023/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3408.jpg?1597092003) ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3410.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/024/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3410.jpg?1597092013) ## Data Cable Plug in the two ends of the ribbon cable, note that the connectors are keyed to only fit in the correct orientation. ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3411.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/025/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3411.jpg?1597092443) ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3412.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/026/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3412.jpg?1597092451) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/027/medium800/led_matrices_onairbuild-3413.jpg?1597092963) ## Jumper To create the mode jumper, simply solder a three position female header to the GND, D13, D12 pins of the shield. A [pack of these](https://www.adafruit.com/product/598) is good to have around, just use some diagonal cutters to clip off three positions (cut along the fourth sacrificial position). We won't use pin D13, but this makes for a more stable header row vs. two individual ones. Then, trim the insulation from the ends of a small bit of solid core hook-up wire and ground D12 to GND for imperial, or pull the jumper for metric. ![weather_IMG_3618.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/558/medium640/weather_IMG_3618.jpg?1599066040) ![weather_IMG_3620.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/559/medium640/weather_IMG_3620.jpg?1599066050) ## Wall Adapter We'll power the Metro M4 from the 5V 2.5 (or a 4A) DC wall adapter plugged into the barrel jack. Even though USB can provide power to the board, the current isn't adequate for lighting up hundreds and thousands of LEDs! ![led_matrices_IMG_3414.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/028/medium640/led_matrices_IMG_3414.jpg?1597093064) ![led_matrices_IMG_3415.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/029/medium640/led_matrices_IMG_3415.jpg?1597093070) # Custom Scrolling Quote Board Matrix Display ## Using MatrixPortal You can build this project with an all-in-one Matrix Portal board, its definitely the easiest and least-expensive way to go about it. You will need a matrix portal, matrix, and USB C power/data cable ### Adafruit Matrix Portal - CircuitPython Powered Internet Display [Adafruit Matrix Portal - CircuitPython Powered Internet Display](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4745) Folks love our [wide selection of RGB matrices](https://www.adafruit.com/category/327) and accessories, for making custom colorful LED displays... and our RGB Matrix Shields and FeatherWings can be quickly soldered together to make the wiring much easier. But what if we made it... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4745) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4745/guides) ![Video of a person rotating an LED matrix panel with animation resembling falling colored sand.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/product-videos/640x480/4745-05.jpg) ### 64x32 RGB LED Matrix - 4mm pitch [64x32 RGB LED Matrix - 4mm pitch](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2278) Bring a little bit of Times Square into your home with this sweet 64 x 32 square RGB LED matrix panel. These panels are normally used to make video walls, here in New York we see them on the sides of busses and bus stops, to display animations or short video clips. We thought they looked... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2278) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2278/guides) ![Two white hands hold out an assembled and powered on 64x32 RGB LED Matrix Panel - 4mm pitch. The matrix displays "Adafruit Industries LED MATRIX! 32x64 *RGB*"](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/2278-00.jpg) ### USB Type A to Type C Cable - approx 1 meter / 3 ft long [USB Type A to Type C Cable - approx 1 meter / 3 ft long](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4474) As technology changes and adapts, so does Adafruit. This   **USB Type A to Type C** cable will help you with the transition to USB C, even if you're still totin' around a USB Type A hub, computer or laptop. USB C is the latest industry-standard connector for... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4474) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4474/guides) ![Angled shot of a coiled black, USB-C to USB-A cable.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/4474-02.jpg) # Custom Scrolling Quote Board Matrix Display ## Install CircuitPython [CircuitPython](https://github.com/adafruit/circuitpython) is a derivative of [MicroPython](https://micropython.org) designed to simplify experimentation and education on low-cost microcontrollers. It makes it easier than ever to get prototyping by requiring no upfront desktop software downloads. Simply copy and edit files on the **CIRCUITPY** drive to iterate. ## Set up CircuitPython Quick Start! Follow this quick step-by-step for super-fast Python power :) [Download the latest version of CircuitPython for this board via circuitpython.org](https://circuitpython.org/board/matrixportal_m4/) ## Further Information For more detailed info on installing CircuitPython, check out [Installing CircuitPython](https://learn.adafruit.com/welcome-to-circuitpython/installing-circuitpython). **Click the link above and download the latest UF2 file.** Download and save it to your desktop (or wherever is handy). ![led_matrices_Save_to_Desktop.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/095/075/medium640/led_matrices_Save_to_Desktop.png?1601050695) Plug your MatrixPortal M4 into your computer using a known-good USB cable. **A lot of people end up using charge-only USB cables and it is very frustrating! So make sure you have a USB cable you know is good for data sync.** Double-click the **Reset** button (indicated by the green arrow) on your board, and you will see the NeoPixel RGB LED (indicated by the magenta arrow) turn green. If it turns red, check the USB cable, try another USB port, etc. If double-clicking doesn't work the first time, try again. Sometimes it can take a few tries to get the rhythm right! ![led_matrices_matrixportal_install_cp.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/125/447/medium640/led_matrices_matrixportal_install_cp.jpg?1697644568) You will see a new disk drive appear called **MATRIXBOOT**.   Drag the **adafruit\_circuitpython\_etc.uf2** file to **MATRIXBOOT****.** ![led_matrices_MATRIXBOOT.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/125/448/medium640/led_matrices_MATRIXBOOT.png?1697644692) ![led_matrices_Drag_to_Drive.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/125/449/medium640/led_matrices_Drag_to_Drive.png?1697644703) The LED will flash. Then, the **MATRIXBOOT**  drive will disappear and a new disk drive called **CIRCUITPY** will appear. That's it, you're done! :) ![led_matrices_circuitpy.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/125/450/medium640/led_matrices_circuitpy.png?1697645066) # Custom Scrolling Quote Board Matrix Display ## Prep the MatrixPortal ## Power Prep The MatrixPortal supplies power to the matrix display panel via two standoffs. These come with protective tape applied (part of our manufacturing process) which MUST BE REMOVED! Use some tweezers or a fingernail to remove the two amber circles. ![adafruit_io_mxprtl-3866.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/902/medium640/adafruit_io_mxprtl-3866.jpg?1600706317) ![adafruit_io_mxprtl-3867.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/903/medium640/adafruit_io_mxprtl-3867.jpg?1600706324) ## Power Terminals Next, screw in the spade connectors to the corresponding standoff. - **red** wire goes to **+5V**   - **black** wire goes to **GND** ![adafruit_io_mxprtl-3869.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/907/medium640/adafruit_io_mxprtl-3869.jpg?1600706432) ![adafruit_io_mxprtl-3871.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/908/medium640/adafruit_io_mxprtl-3871.jpg?1600706551) ## Panel Power Plug either one of the four-conductor power plugs into the power connector pins on the panel. The plug can only go in one way, and that way is marked on the board's silkscreen. ![adafruit_io_mxprtl-3872.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/910/medium640/adafruit_io_mxprtl-3872.jpg?1600706597) ![adafruit_io_mxprtl-3873.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/911/medium640/adafruit_io_mxprtl-3873.jpg?1600706672) ## Dual Matrix Setup If you're planning to use a 64x64 matrix, [follow these instructions on soldering the Address E Line jumper](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-matrixportal-m4/pinouts#address-e-line-jumper-3072815). ## Board Connection Now, plug the board into the left side shrouded 8x2 connector as shown. The orientation matters, so take a moment to confirm that the **white indicator arrow on the matrix panel is oriented pointing up and right** as seen here and the MatrixPortal overhangs the edge of the panel when connected. This allows you to use the edge buttons from the front side.   Check nothing is impeding the board from plugging in firmly. If there's a plastic nub on the matrix that's keeping the Portal from sitting flat, cut it off with diagonal cutters ![adafruit_io_mxprtl-3874.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/912/medium640/adafruit_io_mxprtl-3874.jpg?1600706721) ![adafruit_io_mxprtl-3875.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/913/medium640/adafruit_io_mxprtl-3875.jpg?1600706732) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/914/medium800/adafruit_io_mxprtl-3876.jpg?1600706891) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/915/medium800/adafruit_io_mxprtl-3877.jpg?1600706894) Info: # Custom Scrolling Quote Board Matrix Display ## Code the Quote Board ## Libraries We'll need to make sure we have these libraries installed. (Check out this [link](https://learn.adafruit.com/welcome-to-circuitpython/circuitpython-libraries) on installing libraries if needed.) - **adafruit\_bitmap\_font** - **adafruit\_bus\_device** - **adafruit\_display\_text** - **adafruit\_esp32spi** - **adafruit\_io** - **adafruit\_matrixportal** - **adafruit\_requests.mpy** - **neopixel.mpy** ![adafruit_io_quoteaiolibs.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/678/medium640/adafruit_io_quoteaiolibs.jpg?1599868628) ## Connect to the Internet Once you have CircuitPython setup and libraries installed we can get your board connected to the Internet. The process for connecting can be found [here](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-matrixportal-m4/internet-connect). ## Text Editor Adafruit recommends using the Mu editor for editing your CircuitPython code. You can get more info in [this guide](https://learn.adafruit.com/welcome-to-circuitpython/installing-mu-editor). Alternatively, you can use any text editor that saves simple text files. ## Code Click the Download: Zip File link below in the code window to get a zip file with all the files needed for the project. Copy **code.py** from the zip file and place it on the **CIRCUITPY** drive. https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_Learning_System_Guides/blob/main/Matrix_Quote_Board/code.py ## Adafruit IO Setup Our project will use Adafruit IO to serve up a feed of quotes and colors. Adafruit IO is absolutely free to use, but you'll need to log in with your Adafruit account to use it. If you don't already have an Adafruit login, create [one here](https://accounts.adafruit.com/users/sign_up). If you haven't used Adafruit IO before, [check out this guide for more info](https://learn.adafruit.com/welcome-to-adafruit-io/getting-started-with-adafruit-io). Once you have logged into your account, there are two pieces of information you'll need to place in your **secrets.py** file: **Adafruit IO username** , and **Adafruit IO key**. Head to [io.adafruit.com](https://io.adafruit.com/) and simply click the **View AIO Key** link on the left hand side of the Adafruit IO page to get this information. Then, add them to the **secrets.py** file like this: ```python secrets = { 'ssid' : 'your_wifi_ssid', 'password' : 'your_wifi_password', 'aio_username' : '_your_aio_username_', 'aio_key' : '_your_big_huge_super_long_aio_key_' } ``` ## Problems Getting Quotes If you have any problems getting the data to display correctly, check that the **secrets.py** file has the information noted above. ## Adafruit IO Group, Feeds, Dashboard Next, we'll create the necessary Adafruit IO Group, Feeds, and Dashboard to host our quotes and colors. First, if you're new to Adafruit IO, take a look at [this excellent guide on getting started](https://learn.adafruit.com/welcome-to-adafruit-io). Next, we'll create a Group that will contain our two Feeds. ## Group Creation In the **Feeds** screen click on the **Actions** menu and then pick **Create a New Group** from the dropdown menu. ![adafruit_io_IO_-_Feeds.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/679/medium640/adafruit_io_IO_-_Feeds.png?1599873883) ![adafruit_io_IO_-_Feeds-2.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/680/medium640/adafruit_io_IO_-_Feeds-2.png?1599873890) Name the Group as **Sign Quotes,** then click **Create.** ![adafruit_io_IO_-_Feeds-3.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/681/medium640/adafruit_io_IO_-_Feeds-3.png?1599873976) ## Feed Creation In the **Feeds** screen click on the **Actions** menu and then pick **Create a New Feed** from the dropdown menu. Name this feed **signcolor,** and select **Sign Quotes** from the **Add to groups** field, then click **Create.** Repeat this process a second time to make a new Feed called **signtext.** ![adafruit_io_IO_-_Feeds-4.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/682/medium640/adafruit_io_IO_-_Feeds-4.png?1599874046) ![adafruit_io_IO_-_Feeds-5.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/683/medium640/adafruit_io_IO_-_Feeds-5.png?1599874172) ## Dashboard Creation Now that we have the two feeds we need, let's create a Dashboard with a couple of UI block elements that will make it easy to add data points to our two feeds. From the Dashboards page, click the Actions dropdown menu and select **Create a New Dashboard**. Name the Dashboard as **Quotes** and then click **Create**. ![adafruit_io_IO_-_Dashboards.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/684/medium640/adafruit_io_IO_-_Dashboards.png?1599874337) Click on the **create a new block** **+** sign in the Dashboard page, this will present you with a number of UI element block options. Pick the **Text** block. From the **Chose feed** pop-up window that appears, chose the **signtext** feed, then click **Next step**. In the **Block settings** popup window, give the block the title **Text quote** , then click **Update block.** Repeat this process to create a **Color picker** block, assigning it to the **signcolor** feed. ![adafruit_io_IO_-_Quotes_and_Matrix_Quotes2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/685/medium640/adafruit_io_IO_-_Quotes_and_Matrix_Quotes2.jpg?1599874413) ![adafruit_io_dashtext.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/686/medium640/adafruit_io_dashtext.jpg?1599874437) ![adafruit_io_IO_-_testst.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/688/medium640/adafruit_io_IO_-_testst.png?1599874780) ![adafruit_io_dashcolor.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/689/medium640/adafruit_io_dashcolor.jpg?1599874939) ## Create Quotes Now, you can pick a few different colors with the color picker to add to your arsenal of sign text colors. Type in text in the text block to add quotes to your feed. If you ever decide you don't want one of the colors or quotes, simply head to the relevant feed and click the red 'x' to remove a data point! ![adafruit_io_IO_-_Feed__signtext-4.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/690/medium640/adafruit_io_IO_-_Feed__signtext-4.png?1599875132) ![adafruit_io_IO_-_Feed__signcolor-2.png](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/691/medium640/adafruit_io_IO_-_Feed__signcolor-2.png?1599875143) ## What the Code Does Here's a look at how the code works. First, it loads a few libraries: ```python import time import random import board import terminalio from adafruit_matrixportal.matrixportal import MatrixPortal ``` Next, the Display is set up using the `matrixportal` object. We also create text label objects: ```python # --- Display setup --- matrixportal = MatrixPortal(status_neopixel=board.NEOPIXEL, debug=True) # Create a new label with the color and text selected matrixportal.add_text( text_font=terminalio.FONT, text_position=(0, (matrixportal.graphics.display.height // 2) - 1), scrolling=True, ) # Static 'Connecting' Text matrixportal.add_text( text_font=terminalio.FONT, text_position=(2, (matrixportal.graphics.display.height // 2) - 1), ) ``` ## Feed Variables In order to use the feed data, we need a couple of variables to help traverse the AIO json data. We also create variables for the scroll speed and update time. ```python QUOTES_FEED = "sign-quotes.signtext" COLORS_FEED = "sign-quotes.signcolor" SCROLL_DELAY = 0.02 UPDATE_DELAY = 600 quotes = [] colors = [] last_color = None last_quote = None ``` ## Update Data The `update_data()` function is created to handle the quote feed and color feed data queries. This will be the key function that is run each time the code checks for new quotes and colors. ```python def update_data(): print("Updating data from Adafruit IO") matrixportal.set_text("Connecting", 1) try: quotes_data = matrixportal.get_io_data(QUOTES_FEED) quotes.clear() for json_data in quotes_data: quotes.append(matrixportal.network.json_traverse(json_data, ["value"])) print(quotes) # pylint: disable=broad-except except Exception as error: print(error) try: color_data = matrixportal.get_io_data(COLORS_FEED) colors.clear() for json_data in color_data: colors.append(matrixportal.network.json_traverse(json_data, ["value"])) print(colors) # pylint: disable=broad-except except Exception as error: print(error) if not quotes or not colors: raise "Please add at least one quote and color to your feeds" matrixportal.set_text(" ", 1) ``` This is run as soon as the function has been defined, so that we now have a list of quotes and colors to work with. ## Main Loop In the main loop of the code, a random quote is selected from the list that has been returned by the `update_data()` function. This includes a `while` loop that ensures we don't get the same quote or color twice in a row! ```python # Choose a random quote from quotes if len(quotes) > 1 and last_quote is not None: while quote_index == last_quote: quote_index = random.randrange(0, len(quotes)) else: quote_index = random.randrange(0, len(quotes)) last_quote = quote_index # Choose a random color from colors if len(colors) > 1 and last_color is not None: while color_index == last_color: color_index = random.randrange(0, len(colors)) else: color_index = random.randrange(0, len(colors)) last_color = color_index ``` ## Display the Quote Now, the randomly selected quote is displayed using the `matrixportal.set_text()` and `matrixportal.set_text_color()` commands, and the text is scrolled using `matrixportal.scroll_text()`. ```python # Set the quote text matrixportal.set_text(quotes[quote_index]) # Set the text color matrixportal.set_text_color(colors[color_index]) # Scroll it matrixportal.scroll_text(SCROLL_DELAY) ``` ## Update Time After ten minutes, the code will go and fetch the quotes and colors from the AIO feeds anew, in case anything has changed. ```python if time.monotonic() > last_update + UPDATE_DELAY: update_data() last_update = time.monotonic() ``` # Custom Scrolling Quote Board Matrix Display ## LED Matrix Diffuser ## LED Diffusion Acrylic You can add an [LED diffusion acrylic faceplate](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4594) to the your LED matrix display. (Pictured here with the [ON AIR project](https://learn.adafruit.com/rgb-matrix-automatic-youtube-on-air-sign)) This can help protect the LEDs as well as enhance the look of the sign both indoors and out by reducing glare and specular highlights of the plastic matrix grid. ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3367.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/093/987/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3367.jpg?1597088161) ## Measure and Cut the Plastic You can use the sign to measure and mark cut lines on the paper backing of the acrylic sheet. Then, use a tablesaw or bandsaw with a fine toothed blade and a guide or sled to make the cuts. Note: it is possible to score and snap acrylic, but it can be very tricky to get an even snap without proper clamping. ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3343.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/093/988/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3343.jpg?1597088278) ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3346.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/093/989/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3346.jpg?1597088290) ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3347.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/093/991/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3347.jpg?1597089259) ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3349.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/093/992/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3349.jpg?1597089270) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/093/998/medium800/led_matrices_onairbuild-3352.jpg?1597089308) Peel away the paper backing from both sides and set the acrylic onto your matrix display with the matte finished side facing out. ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3355.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/093/999/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3355.jpg?1597089331) ## Uglu Dashes The best method we've found for adhering acrylic to the matrix display is to use [Uglu Dashes clear adhesive rectangles from Pro Tapes](https://www.protapes.com/products/uglu-600-dashes-sheets). They are incredibly strong (although can be removed if necessary), easy to apply, and are invisible once attached. Use one at each corner and one each at the halfway point of the long edges, then press the acrylic and matrix panel together for about 20 seconds. ![adafruit_io_weathermx-2-3.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/842/medium640/adafruit_io_weathermx-2-3.jpg?1600463849) ![adafruit_io_weathermx-2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/843/medium640/adafruit_io_weathermx-2.jpg?1600463856) ![adafruit_io_weathermx-2-2.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/844/medium640/adafruit_io_weathermx-2-2.jpg?1600463866) Here you can see the impact of using the diffusion acrylic. (Pictured here with the ON AIR sign project) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/006/medium800thumb/led_matrices_diffusionOnAir.jpg?1597089757) ## Stand A very simple and attractive way to display your matrix is with the adjustable [bent-wire stand](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1679). ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3418.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/032/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3418.jpg?1597094067) ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3419.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/033/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3419.jpg?1597094085) ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3421.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/034/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3421.jpg?1597094097) ![led_matrices_onairbuild-3422.jpg](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/094/035/medium640/led_matrices_onairbuild-3422.jpg?1597094107) ![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/095/378/medium800/adafruit_io_led_matrices_onairbuild-3383.jpg?1602006263) Alternately, you can use a frame, [3D printed brackets](https://learn.adafruit.com/led-protest-sign/build-the-sign#step-3065326), tape, glue, or even large binder clips to secure the acrylic to the sign and then mount it on on a wall, shelf, or display cabinet. [These mini-magnet feet](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4631) can be used to stick the sign to a ferrous surface. ## Featured Products ### Adafruit Metro M4 Express AirLift (WiFi) - Lite [Adafruit Metro M4 Express AirLift (WiFi) - Lite](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4000) Give your next project a lift with _AirLift_ - our witty name for the ESP32 co-processor that graces this Metro M4. You already know about the  **Adafruit Metro M4**  featuring the  **Microchip ATSAMD51** , with it's 120MHz Cortex M4 with... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4000) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4000/guides) ### 64x32 RGB LED Matrix - 4mm pitch [64x32 RGB LED Matrix - 4mm pitch](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2278) Bring a little bit of Times Square into your home with this sweet 64 x 32 square RGB LED matrix panel. These panels are normally used to make video walls, here in New York we see them on the sides of busses and bus stops, to display animations or short video clips. We thought they looked... In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2278) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2278/guides) ### Adafruit RGB Matrix Shield for Arduino [Adafruit RGB Matrix Shield for Arduino](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2601) Our RGB matrices are dazzling, with their hundreds or even _thousands_ of individual RGB LEDs. Compared to NeoPixels, they've got great density, power usage and the price-per-LED can't be beat. But...(isn't there always a _but_?) You need to use our special library to... 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Perfect for connecting a PC to your Metro, Feather, Raspberry Pi or other dev-board or microcontroller Approximately 3 feet / 1 meter long In Stock [Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/592) [Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/592/guides) ### Adjustable Bent-Wire Stand - up to 7" Tablets and Small Screens [Adjustable Bent-Wire Stand - up to 7" Tablets and Small Screens](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1679) This handy bent-wire display stand was originally designed to hold up 7" tablets but the rubberized design is great for general purpose electronics & TFT holding. We use it to hold up our HDMI displays while connected to a Pi - even though it is meant for 7" we found that its... 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