analog gauge PCB

This is a micro-project to produce a completely standalone serial driven gauge motor, for retrofitting into pretty much any analog display or meter that can be driven with just a single data line; without having to worry about timing, drive loads, or even input coupling.

Also available on Tindie as a full kit of parts: https://www.tindie.com/products/boffin/stepper-motor-gauge-driver-serially-driven/

Uses

Replace an old broken analog mechanism with a modern digital replacement Create a steampunk style gauge using modern data feed Custom automotive gauges The board has its own on-board driver CPU, so there's no need to worry about multiple I/O pins, current drivers, flyback diodes, or step timing in your own source code; just hook up a single serial line and go. Also, because the input is opto-isolated you can swap polarity, and drive it from anything from 3.3v up to 15v (RS-232). There's even a spot on board for an on-board regulator in case you're using it on a 12 volt supply for your own custom automotive gauges.

It uses the very common X27.168 stepper motor to drive a pointer, the same stepper that is found (and widely available) in many car dashboards to drive the gauges you look at every day. I've found that if you don't have a good pointer you're going to re-use, go down to a local hobby store (or online) and find a nice clock hand that will suit your purpose; or even a gauge pointer off an automotive gauge. Even if the size doesn't fit exactly, a small dab of glue fixes that.