MrChips, That sounds great. Are there some presumptions in there? Do LED displays like this have a common protocol and interface?

 

I don't think so. What I have in mind is using a DIY scheme using a simple 8-bit MCU on each module.
The MCU receives three or more bytes on UART RX input and outputs 7 or 8-bit parallel to 7 or 8 LED drivers.

(There is an even simpler design whereby you program the entire display with one word at home. You simply turn on the power while on the road. I am not recommended this because it lacks flexibility and the option of having programmable and dynamic displays.)

 

MrChips, I did not expect the conversation to take this path, much less in this short time span. Using an LED display panel like the one I found seems like the best way. It only weighs 2.1 pounds. Now to wait to find who makes it and see their user manual.
To each person in this conversation, thank you for your time and patience.

 

I don't know your budget but here's one:

https://www.amazon.com/Programmable-Advertising-Bluetooth-Application-Scrolling/dp/B0CF1PFK27

You can program it with your phone.

 

My original plan was for one word or phrase to be shown all day. An Arduino could do one, or several. The difficulty with several is getting the data into the Arduino, so I think that dynamic changes would be out of the question. For now, program one word or phrase at home, then go out to display it.

Thanks for the clarity. My suggestion was based on assuming you wanted a lighted sign with a single phrase. That doesn't fit what you want.

 

B-JoJo-S, Quite right. But this conversation has taken totally unexpected turns. I am quite surprised and grateful.

 

MrChips, I did not expect the conversation to take this path, much less in this short time span. Using an LED display panel like the one I found seems like the best way. It only weighs 2.1 pounds. Now to wait to find who makes it and see their user manual.
To each person in this conversation, thank you for your time and patience.

No problem. I did not think of searching on Amazon.
Once again, you cannot beat those prices. DIY solutions always cost many times more.

 

I don't know your budget but here's one:

https://www.amazon.com/Programmable-Advertising-Bluetooth-Application-Scrolling/dp/B0CF1PFK27

You can program it with your phone.

Oh, Wow! That is better than anything I could have expected.
Thank you.

 

Oh, Wow! That is better than anything I could have expected.
Thank you.

Shop around. I see a better one for half that price.

 

Oh, Wow! That is better than anything I could have expected.
Thank you.

Cheaper one on the same line.....

https://www.amazon.com/LED-Sign-Programmable-Bluetooth-Control/dp/B0DWSTP72J/?th=1

 

This is great! I love how the engineers make it into an unneccesarily complex thing with matrix displays, micros, etc. You just need a few permanent words that flash, yes?
The LED tape idea is good. You can also buy flashing LEDs that you could use to control the words - ie. set one up to control a power FET that then turns on and off the main display.
I may need to make a sign like that for myself. Thanks for the idea (and motivation).

The goal is to spell out one or a few words with LEDs. I am thinking of a bunch of LED lights that spell out the word(s). Every second or so, the LEDs should switch off for maybe 0.1 seconds to help with attention. Your advice is solicited here as to what will be readable and grab the most attention. They need to be fairly bright to see outside.

I am thinking of a 555 for the timer and an electric switch to directly drive the LEDs. All my searches for electronic switches come up with manual light switches. What do you suggest and how might it be wired? The power will be a battery pack. Two hours or so will be sufficient. Maybe four hours so it does not get too depleted before charging again. Seems like a proto board cut down to size will be the best option for mounting the 555 and switch.

I can solder and wire well. Your advice please.

Thank you for your