LCDInfo.com

Okay, I know I am going to get alot of crap for this... but... I don't know where to start. I just bought a Noritake GU128x32-311 VFD on ebay. The only info I have is: http://www.sbrsales.com/Specifications/gu128x32-311.pdf
and
http://liquid-mp3.schijf.org/schematics ... 32-311.gif
I have no previous experience with LCD or VFD displays. So, how do I get started? How do I hook this up to my computer? What cables and/or controller do I need? Is there some beginners guide to this somewhere?

I know most of you are hating me right now for asking this. I understand what it's like to have a newb come in and be real stupid, not knowing where to start. So, thank you in advance for being considerate and helpful.

http://forum.lcdinfo.com/viewtopic.php?t=549
Post 5 deals with that display and lists the parts you need.

Connecting a VFD is actually very simple, just seperate the wires, strip the ends, crimp on pins from a male DB25 connector, and put the pins where you want them. Then you just connect power and turn on your computer.

Here's a pic of a project I started yesterday with an 800a:

If I remember I'll take some pictures of the actual wiring later. But its really just as I said. A ribbon cable connected to a DB25 connector, and +5v and GND from the PSU to the VFD.

Yes VFD's are way much easier to wire than LCD's.
Nice project TerminateDrone, what's it for? (Me is leaving for holidays to Canada on Wednesday woohoo! , how's the weather )

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My Plexeon-Insane LCD!-Or this one!-LCDinfo-LCDStudio

The LCD is for a hockey scoreboard I'm making.

The weather in Calgary sucks this week. It's rainy. In other spots in the country we have everything from heat waves, to perma-frost, just depends where you're going. Where are you vacationing?

Isn't the 800a a tad too small for a scoreboard I'll be staying in Toronto, planning to drive around too but dunno with two little kids...

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My Plexeon-Insane LCD!-Or this one!-LCDinfo-LCDStudio

"Scoreboard" may be a poor choice of words. I want a custom ticker with scores and logos. The beauty of the 800a is it mounts perfectally in the front of a computer case (if I can find a couple flat bay covers to mount it in that is - the ones on my case are ackward and unuseable, and generic ones are too deep for the case).

wow, thanks! that clears up alot of things. that really helped. thanks. i dont have time now to hook everything up; but in the next few days ill post my results.

thanks again, thats exactly what i needed.