Navigation lights for Into Darkness Enterprise

James May · Post by **James May** » Fri May 24, 2013 7:37 am

Hello everyone!

While waiting for my new Enterprise to get to me I was wondering about how to make that double-blinking effect on this ship's nav lights? I already have done simple flashing scheme for TOS Enterprise from Revell... but have no idea, how to simulate this new effect. Any ideas?

brt · Post by **brt** » Fri May 24, 2013 8:52 am

PIC chips or Arduino. Both will allow you to program the effects that you want. I have not used either so perhaps others here will chime in. From what I have read, Arduino is easier to learn and PICs are cheaper.

James May · Post by **James May** » Fri May 24, 2013 3:30 pm

Thanks for some tips! I'll try to search more info about that...

Mr. Engineer · Post by **Mr. Engineer** » Sat Jun 01, 2013 11:55 am

Yep, you really need microprocessors to do the double lighting sequence but if you're good at electronics, even the 555 & 4017 pair will get you going but its very difficult to get the timing just right. Once you take into consideration of the third flashing sequence, old school electronics just seemed like a hindrance.

I had to use a microprocessor for mine (when I was designing the board in 2009) because not only does it save space but also, it ore or less gave me the almost 'perfect' timing sequence I was looking for.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid ... nt_count=1

brt · Post by **brt** » Tue Jun 04, 2013 9:45 am

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2fUvCFNyI0

A neat introduction to arduino.

James May · Post by **James May** » Sat Jun 08, 2013 3:19 pm

Thanks a lot guys! I've already cracked that problem with Arduino - it's a great platform. I think I will be able to simulate engines too with it.

So - hopefully - I'll light up my Enterprise, when it will get to me.