LED Sign

Home Page  Simulated Radio Station  Weather Window  List of Web Sites


One of the functions being performed by our home automation computer is the interface to a Beta Brite sign. The sign connects to the computer through an RS-232 serial interface and is a receive-only device. The sign output is updated regularly by Radio HAL (see link above).

Normally, the sign displays the following information in a loop:

  • Today's events. This includes birthdays and holidays.
  • Humorous saying of the day.
  • Current date and time, including day of the week.
  • Current weather conditions.
  • A random animated graphic built into the sign.
  • If the temperature is below freezing, "Freeze Warning" is added to the list.
The computer checks the temperature at least once every half hour. The sign is updated whenever the temperature changes.

The sign keeps track of the time. All other information must come from the host computer.

When the phone rings, Caller ID information is displayed on the sign for approximately two minutes. Then, the normal information is reloaded.

When we arrive home, HAL checks to see if there are any telephone messages. This causes "HAL Alert, New Voicemail" to be displayed on the sign for a few minutes.

Questions

Q: Where did you purchase the Beta Brite sign?
A: The sign was purchased from Sam's Wholesale Club. Search for 'Beta Brite'.