Matrix Orbital Corp

This is an automobile application where there will be both direct sunlight and complete darkness, both cold and hot environment, viewed at many angles. Any suggestions on whether to go VFD or LCD? If VFD is OK in direct sunlight can it be dimmed in darkness? How is LCD speed at -5C?

Here is what I think you should get, because its what I decided on since I am doing the same thing. Get a VFD with Wide Voltage and Wide Temp. VFDs are great even when viewed at an angle. The black background also make it able to be read when its dark, or in sunlight. Get a nice outdoor filter for the screen to protect it fom all the sun it will get in the car. The Wide Temp option will ensure the display works in the winter time when its really cold, or in the summer time when its super hot. I believe it says it can withstand up to 72c. I was going to put my other vfd in my car, but it doesn't have a keypad interface and i wanted to rig up a keypad to control winamp.

I concure. VFD + polarising filter so you can see it in sun light, you can turn the brightness down by shortening the driving pulses through software (tis easy),

r.

Extended Temp option (-E) for a VFD is rated -40 C to +85 C. You could drive up to Alaska and still have it work.

I would recomend a VFD for a car, especialy if it will get cold. The extended temp LCDs will do a better job then normal temp ones, but will still slow down in the cold weather. LCD is a liquid, the the extended temp just keeps it from freezing till a lower temp. VFD will run at the same speed no matter what temp you will be using it at. I would say a VFD, you probably don't need the Exnteded Temp in that, unless like Adam said, you are going to Alaska

Make sure yo get a filter for it, this is the most important thing though...

Unanimity is a wonderful thing...