SparkFun Large Digit Driver WIG-13279 current

Hi,

I am using 5 of the large digit driver (WIG-13279) in my project. I have one working, with the 12v source coming directly from the power supply, and the 5v source coming from the Arduino Uno. The grounds are tied together.

My question is, as I connect all 5 together (in a daisy chain configuration), can all 5 of the large digit driver be driven off of the Arduino 5v output pin, or do I need to connect the 5v directly to the power supply, too? I tried to look up the technical specs to see what current would be drawn for the 5v logic side, but I was not able to discern that from the documents. I would appreciate any help you can provide.

Thanks!

The logic current for the IC seems to be:

Icc (mA):
(All outputs off) min: 20, max: 200
(All outputs on) min: 150, max: 500

The Uno might, under perfect ideal conditions, be able to handle 5. However, I would suggest using a dedicated 5V power supply to help manage un-ideal situations.

Ahh. I thought that was for the 12v side that feeds the LEDs. But you’re right. It would be safer to feed it from the power supply And it won’t be too much of a hassle to do that.

They get daisy chained together. Do you think it matters if i do it from the reverse direction as the clock and latch i/o direction? It would be much easier to do that in my layout.

Thanks again for your help.