7-segment Display
A 7-segment display uses seven LED segments, plus often a decimal point, to form digits and a few letters.
Part images
What it is
A 7-segment display uses seven LED segments, plus often a decimal point, to form digits and a few letters.
How students use it
Students use it for counters, timers, scores, and numeric sensor output, usually with segment codes and sometimes a 74HC595 to save GPIO pins.
Pins and power
Segments a through g plus decimal point, with common cathode pin(s).
Common cathode display in this kit. Each segment is an LED and needs current limiting.
SunFounder states this kit uses a common cathode display. Segment codes use bits for DP/G/F/E/D/C/B/A; for example 0x3f displays 0.
Voltage and safety
Every lit segment draws current. Use resistors and check total current.
Do not connect segments directly to GPIO without current limiting.
Module internals
Seven LED segments plus decimal point in one display body.
Datasheet notes
SunFounder does not identify an exact 7-segment part number. Match the display markings and common-cathode/common-anode type before applying a datasheet.
Common libraries
No special library is required; students usually map digits to segment bit patterns and write them with GPIO or a 74HC595.
Common mistakes
Using common-anode code on a common-cathode display, reversing the common pin, mixing up segment order, and forgetting the decimal point bit.