[DML] Backlit Electronic Instrument Cluster

["dmc6960" <dmc6960@xxxxxxxxx>]

Thought I'd give a bit of info on this project I've been working on...

It is a complete drop-in replacement for the instrument cluster inside the binnacle.  It will visually look identical to the original cluster with the only change being the appearance of the odometer and trip meter which will be 7-segment LED displays instead of rolling numbers.  It will be backlit in a fashion to match the A/C decal on the center console (primary backlit color=green), and optionally be available in primary backlit colors of blue and red as well.  The typeface will match the original cluster perfectly.  The speedometer will be available in an 85mph and 140mph versions.  There will also be a complete metric version as well with a 240kph speedometer.

The speedometer will be driven by a speed sensor in place of the angle drive.  With elimination of the LAMBDA counter the LAMBDA light will be lit and reset electronically.

The fuel gauge can be driven by any fuel sender; OEM, TankZilla, DMCH Repros, and strait Saab units.  The Saab units need their logic reversed which will be selectable by a switch on the back of the cluster.  There will also be logic averaging the level reads, so there will be no dramatic swings in the needle under acceleration or braking.  The low fuel light will also be logic controlled so instead of initially flickering it will just give you a steady on.

The temp gauge will gain some "dummy light" functions as well by blinking the LAMBDA light under an indicated overheat condition.

The tachometer will gain stability, will no longer read "fast" under a low voltage condition, and will RETURN TO ZERO upon shutting down the engine.  I know that is an annoyance with a lot of people, and it will be remedied.

All other gauges will function as normal.

The back of the cluster will be a hard printed circuit board.  It will no longer have the flexible mylar sheet which has those contacts which always get bent up.

The needles themselves will be driven by stepper motors designed specifically for automotive instrument clusters.  The needles will also be backlit.

I have been posting occasional updates to a thread on DMCTalk.org.  The thread is at http://dmctalk.org/showthread.php?1160

I will post again here to the DML when there is a major update to report.  If I am unable to finish a prototype before DCS, I will have one operational in my own car by mid-late summer to begin testing.

Jim Reeve
DMC6960



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