A dot matrix display is a display device used to display information on pinball machines and other devices requiring a simple display device of limited resolution. The display consists of a matrix of lights arranged in a rectangular configuration (other shapes are also possible, although not common) such that by switching on selected ones of the lights text or simple graphics can be displayed. A dot matrix controller converts instructions from a processor into signals to particular lights in the matrix such that the required display is produced.

Characteristics

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Dot matrix displays used in pinball machines are generally made using gas bulbs as opposed to LEDs or conventional filament bulbs (this gives them their distinctive orange colour).

Usual Resolutions

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Common sizes of dot matrix displays are:

• 128x16
• 128x32
• 192x64