EL Research - Jacob-Dixon/MysticWhip GitHub Wiki
##The EL Driver
| Rank | Part Name | Price | Pins | Interface | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Choice | MAX14521E | $5-$10 | 24 | I^2C | 4mm X 4mm |
| Second Choice | D504B | $50-$80 | 20 | I^2C | 4mm X 4mm |
The MAX14521E is the first choice because of its low cost, low current draw, and better functionality. This driver features a register that can manipulate the frequencies of each EL lamp individually, allowing more flexibility in the colors that can be displayed. It also features a register that can control the peak-to-peak output voltage on the EL lamps, allowing for brightening and dimming effects. An AUX input pin is given for audio to alter the frequency and output voltage as well. According to its Operating Characteristics for Total Current, it appears as though it will only draw up to 20 mA max. It does require a shielded coupled inductor along with basic resistors and capacitors, but this inductor is only $2-$3.
The D504B was the only other driver I could find with similar functionality. It has the ability to manipulate the output voltage through I2C. However, it cannot manipulate the frequencies of the EL lamps through I2C. This would limit design capabilities.
####MAX14521E Electrical Characteristics
| Type | Min | Typical | Max | Units |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 2.7 | Not Listed | 5.5 | V |
| Input Supply Current | Not Listed | 350 | 900 | uA |
| P->P Voltage | 66 | Not Listed | 320 | V |
| Input Logic Low | Not Listed | Not Listed | 0.5 | V |
| Input Logic High | 1.5 | Not Listed | Not Listed | V |
####Alternative Choice: D504B Electrical Characteristics
| Type | Min | Typical | Max | Units |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 2.1 | Not Listed | 5.0 | V |
| Supply Current | 0 | 37 | 35 | mA |
| P->P Voltage | 170 | 190 | 220 | V |
http://www.rogerscorp.com/documents/840/durel/DUREL-D504A-EL-Lamp-Driver.aspx
##The EL Wire
| Rank | Part Name | Price | Diameter | Streching Force | Bending Diameter |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Choice | Polar Light 3 | $3-$8/m | 2.6mm | 1.5kg max | >10mm |
| Second Choice | SVL-01S | $5/m | 2.3mm | 1kg max | 12mm |
The Polar Light 3 EL wire is the first choice because of its superior brightness and convenient data sheet. Compared with the alternative, this EL wire is rated to be 10-20 cd/m¬¬2 higher when operating 10 VAC less. Its data sheet also provides what colors will be displayed at certain frequencies.
The SVL-01S was not chosen because it does not provide the greatest brightness, which is necessary for us. We want the brightest EL wire. Also, the distributor for this product does not offer as wide a variety of colors as the distributor for the Polar Light 3.
####Polar Light 3: Electrical Characteristics
| Type | Min | Typical | Max | Units |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Input Voltage | 40 | Not Listed | 110 | VAC |
| Input Frequency | 400 | Not Listed | 3000 | Hz |
| Current | Not Not Listed | 150 | Not Listed | mA |
####SVL-01S: Electrical Characteristics
| Type | Min | Typical | Max | Units |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Input Voltage | Not Listed | Not Listed | 130 | VAC |
| Input Frequency | Not Listed | Not Listed | 2000 | Hz |
| Current | Not Listed | 100 | Not Listed | mA |
##Detailed Block Diagram
##The Visual Logic For the visual logic block, the actual code itself will be simple. Within the function, there will be several case statements that will test the parameter handed to the function. This parameter will tell the function what state the whip is in (cast a certain spell, unsuccessful spell, etc.). The blocks for each process in the flowchart are quite vague, but this is intentional. The bits that are sent to the driver can be used to influence the EL Frequency register as well as the EL Peak Voltage register. We can use these registers to cast the visuals we want to represent. This means, however, that it will require some trial and error to get the kind of visuals we want.
