New Guide: Matrix Portal RGB Matrix Handbag

Tutorial Link: https://learn.adafruit.com/matrix-portal-rgb-display-handbag/overview

Everyone is going crazy for the new Matrix Portal microcontroller, a board that makes controlling any of Adafruit’s RGB Matrix Displays really easy. It’s a plug-and-play solution – just plug the board into the back of the display and start creating slideshows, animations, or internet connected applications. The possibilities are endless.

This new guide from Erin St. Blaine shows how to modify a messenger bag or backpack to display your RGB Matrix through a vinyl window in the bag. The sample code shows how to display a variety of different slide shows, and makes use of the Matrix Portal’s onboard accelerometer to darken the screen whenever you set the bag down for more than a minute, in order to save battery life.

From the guide:

Make a display for your display! Show off your message to the world. This guide will show how to set up and assemble a Matrix Portal and RGB Matrix display, then make a transparent pocket in your backpack, purse, or messenger bag to show it off.

There is also a simple code example that displays your bmp images in slideshow fashion. Use the onboard buttons to switch between folders and play different messages, or pause on your favorite image. Set your bag down and the onboard accelerometer will sense that you’re not moving and dim the screen to save battery life.

You can also use any of the other Matrix Portal code samples to get you started. Get ready to have fun with all the features the Matrix Portal offers.