I believe this is possible.

Not that I want to do this exactly, but can you tie LED Outputs 0 & 1, 2 & 3, 4 & 5, 6 & 7, 8 & 9 each to a single LED, thus creating a 5 LED indicator instead of a 10 LED indicator? And in doind so, without any additional parts?

Can they be staggered... Output 0 to one LED, Output 2 & 3 to another LED...?

Can you tie three outputs to one LED, and perhaps 1 per LED for the remainder?



Thanks guys!

 

Should be no problem in "DOT" mode. If "BAR" mode is used, the outputs would combine their currents. Others may see it differently and straighten out my thinking. Is there a reason you would not be able to just use the first 5 outputs and scale your input accordingly?

 

From the datasheet:

Much of the display flexibility derives from the fact that all
outputs are individual, DC regulated currents. Various effects
can be achieved by modulating these currents. The
individual outputs can drive a transistor as well as a LED at
the same time, so controller functions including ``staging''
control can be performed. The LM3914 can also act as a
programmer, or sequencer.
...

...
LED Current Regulation: The change in output current
over the specified range of LED supply voltage (VLED) as
measured at the current source outputs. As the forward voltage
of an LED does not change significantly with a small
change in forward current, this is equivalent to changing the
voltage at the LED anodes by the same amount.

If you halve the output drive via pin 7 on the LM3914, you could use 2 pins to sink enough current to not overdrive 1 LED.

All outputs would need to be dual output for 1 LED though, it may be easier to go 50% = full scale, and only use the first 5 comparators to avoid any problems.

 

You can't cheat
the datasheet.

If you try,
Your parts will die.

 

This would be bad,
And you would be sad.

 

This would be bad,
And you would be sad.

You can't cheat
the datasheet.

If you try,
Your parts will die.

You guys are too funny.

If you do not use output 0 - 9 can the voltage range be as large, for example using only outputs 0 - 5...?

 

You guys are too funny.

If you do not use output 0 - 9 can the voltage range be as large, for example using only outputs 0 - 5...?

The IC is designed for a 0-5V display, each LED being 0.5V.

Change/Add voltage divider on input so the max is only 2.5V instead of 5V. Use the first 5 taps. Some resolution is lost, but that would happen in any case when going from 10 to 5 outputs, no matter the method.

 

LMAOF....Sorrry.
Like seeing humor every now and then.