Activity 4
Programming 4 Digit 7 Segment LED Display
Introduction
The 4-digit 7-segment LED display is a simple yet powerful component for displaying numeric
information in a wide range of electronic projects. Each of the four digits is made up of seven LEDs
(segments) that can be individually controlled to form numbers and some letters. In this project, we use a
microcontroller to program the 4-digit 7-segment display, enabling it to show numbers, counters, timers,
or other data. Mastering the programming of this display provides a strong foundation in controlling
multiplexed devices, understanding digital output signals, and managing timing delays — all critical skills
in electronics and embedded systems development.
Materials
Arduino UNO: This is the brain of the operation. It's a microcontroller board with a built-in processor,
memory, and input/output pins. You'll program the Arduino to control the LED display, making it show
different numbers, letters, or even animations1.
Breadboard: This is a prototyping tool that allows you to connect electronic components without
soldering. It has rows of holes that are electrically connected, making it easy to create circuits1.
Jumper Wires: These are short, flexible wires with connectors on each end that allow you to connect
components on the breadboard. They come in various lengths and colors, making it easier to organize
your circuits23.
4 Digit 7 Segment LED Display: This is the output device that will display the information you send
from the Arduino. It consists of four individual 7-segment displays, each capable of showing numbers
from 0 to 9. Each segment is a separate LED, and by turning them on and off in different combinations,
you can form different numbers and letters.
Conclusion
Through this project, we successfully programmed a 4-digit 7-segment LED display using a
microcontroller. By understanding how to control each segment individually and how to multiplex across
four digits, we displayed dynamic information like numbers and counters effectively. The project
reinforced critical concepts such as digital output control, timing management with delays, and efficient
pin usage. Learning to manage a multiplexed display prepares us for more advanced electronic displays
and user interface systems. Overall, this project demonstrated the importance of timing precision and
hardware interfacing in embedded system design.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Test the 7-segment display before wiring: Always check each segment manually with a resistor and
power supply to ensure there are no faulty LEDs.
Use a shift register or display driver IC: Components like the 74HC595 or MAX7219 can simplify
wiring and programming by reducing the number of pins needed.
