16×8segment

16×8segment refers to a display or display-like grid comprising 16 columns and 8 rows of individually controllable segments, yielding a 128-element matrix. The term is often used to describe dot-matrix style panels built from LED or LCD segments and is not limited to a specific technology. In practice, a 16×8segment panel can be implemented as a simple LED matrix or as a custom LCD arrangement, with each segment addressed to form graphics, symbols, or characters.

The hardware footprint typically includes a grid of driving lines: 16 column lines and 8 row lines, or their equivalents in the chosen technology. Control is usually achieved through multiplexing, where one set of lines is energized at a time while the other set carries the pattern data. This approach reduces the number of drive pins required on a microcontroller or driver IC, though it necessitates careful timing and, in the case of LEDs, brightness management to avoid flicker.

Data representation for a 16×8segment display often uses a bitmap where each bit corresponds to a segment. For text, fonts are stored as 16×8 or scaled bitmaps, enabling alphanumeric rendering by lighting the appropriate segments to form characters. Graphics and simple icons can also be displayed by designing suitable 16×8 bitmaps.

Applications for 16×8segment panels include embedded devices and information displays where compact size and moderate resolution are sufficient. They are common in hobbyist projects, information kiosks, and compact signage. Related concepts include 8×8 and larger LED matrices, dot-matrix displays, and segmented LCDs, all of which share the principle of arranging individual segments in a grid for programmable visual output.