LED Name Badge: Programmable Scrolling Text Pin

LED name badges are small, wearable scrolling text displays that have become popular at conferences, trade shows, and retail environments. These programmable badges display your name, a message, or even simple animations on a tiny LED matrix. While commercial badges are available, you can also build a more versatile custom version using OLED displays and a microcontroller.

What Is an LED Name Badge

An LED name badge is a pin-on or clip-on device with a small LED matrix display:

• Display: Typically 11×44 or 12×48 LED matrix (red, green, blue, or white)
• Power: Built-in rechargeable battery (8-12 hours runtime)
• Programming: Via Bluetooth app or USB connection
• Features: Scrolling text, static text, animations, and clock mode
• Size: About 90mm x 30mm x 6mm — similar to a standard name badge

Types of LED Badges

• Commercial LED badges (Rs.300-800): Pre-built, app-controlled. Easy to use but limited customisation.
• DIY with OLED: More flexible, custom animations, sensor integration. Uses 0.91-inch or 0.96-inch OLED.
• DIY with dot matrix: Larger, brighter, but bulkier. Uses MAX7219 single module.

Programming via Bluetooth or USB

Most commercial LED badges use a smartphone app:

1. Download the badge app (LED Badge, Badge Magic, or similar)
2. Connect via Bluetooth
3. Type your message and choose animation mode
4. Send to badge — updates instantly

The app typically supports up to 8 stored messages, speed control, and animation effects like scrolling, flashing, and snowflake patterns.

Creating Custom Messages and Graphics

• Keep messages short and impactful — 20-30 characters maximum for readability
• Use the built-in drawing mode for simple logos or symbols
• Some apps support importing bitmap images for custom graphics
• For trade shows: display your name, company, and a call-to-action in rotation

Battery Life and Charging

• Commercial badges: 8-12 hours on a full charge (varies with brightness and animation)
• Charging: Micro USB or USB-C, 1-2 hours for full charge
• Tip: Reduce brightness in indoor settings to extend battery life

Use Cases in India

• Trade shows and exhibitions: Stand out from regular paper badges
• Retail staff: Display name and special offers
• Events and conferences: Custom messages for networking
• Restaurants: Display the daily special or waiter’s name
• Students: Fun and educational electronics project

DIY Badge with OLED and 3D Print

Build a superior badge using a 0.91-inch OLED and Arduino Pro Mini:

1. Design a slim enclosure in 3D printing software (10mm thick)
2. Mount the OLED and Pro Mini inside with a LiPo battery
3. Programme custom animations, sensor-reactive displays, or Bluetooth messaging
4. Add a badge pin or magnetic clip to the back

This DIY approach lets you add features like accelerometer-reactive displays, temperature readout, or NFC contact sharing.

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