VFD Music Spectrum Display User Manual

1. Introduction

The VFD Music Spectrum Display is a versatile audio visualization device designed to enhance your listening experience. It features a classical vacuum fluorescent display (VFD) that visually represents audio frequency bands. With 25 frequency bands displayed horizontally and vertically, it uses a silicon microphone and an STM32F103 processor to accurately capture and display sound. This device supports both USB Type-C 5V and DC 7-15V power inputs, making it suitable for various applications, including car audio systems.

2. Safety Information

• Please connect to the power supply according to the specified parameters to avoid damage to the motherboard. Use a power supply certified by the relevant agency.
• High voltage is present inside the machine; it is forbidden to touch exposed parts during operation.
• Do not immerse the device in water or use it under conditions of humidity higher than 90%.
• Do not use any solvents or liquids other than absolute alcohol to wipe the screen.
• Do not disassemble the device yourself. Product failures caused by non-quality problems are not covered.
• The glass vacuum device is sensitive to vibration; avoid strong impacts.
• Functions may change without prior notice.

3. Package Contents

Please check the package for the following items:

• VFD Music Spectrum Display Unit
• Acrylic Panels (for casing)
• Mounting Screws and Spacers
• USB Type-C Cable
• Power Cable (DC)

4. Product Overview

The VFD Music Spectrum Display features several input/output ports and adjustment controls. Refer to the diagram below for identification:

1. Menu/+ key
2. DC 7-15V Input (Optional)
3. DC 5V Type-C Input
4. 3.5mm Audio input jack
5. MIC switch
6. Audio input attenuation adjustment
7. Bright adjustment

5. Setup Instructions

1. Assembly (if required): If your unit came unassembled, carefully attach the acrylic panels using the provided screws and spacers. Ensure all components are securely fitted.
2. Power Connection:
   • For 5V power, connect the USB Type-C cable to the DC 5V Type-C Input port (3) and to a compatible 5V USB power source.
   • For 7-15V power, connect the DC power cable to the DC 7-15V Input port (2) and to a compatible 7-15V DC power source.

   Note: Ensure the power supply matches the specified voltage to prevent damage.

3. Audio Input:
   • Microphone (Voice-controlled pickup): To use the built-in microphone, ensure the MIC switch (5) is in the ON position. The device will pick up ambient sound.
   • 3.5mm Audio Jack: To connect an external audio source (e.g., car radio, amplifier, phone), plug a 3.5mm audio cable into the 3.5mm Audio input jack (4). Ensure the MIC switch (5) is OFF if using the 3.5mm input to avoid interference from the built-in microphone.
4. Initial Adjustments:
   • Adjust the Audio input attenuation (6) and Bright adjustment (7) knobs to your preference.

6. Operating Instructions

The device features a menu system controlled by the Menu/+ key (1) and the swing button (located on the side, see Figure 4).

6.1. Menu Navigation and Settings

To access and adjust settings, use the Menu/+ key to select a menu item and the swing button (Up/Down) to adjust its value.

• MODE: Display mode selection, range 0-10.
• GAIN: Gain setting, range 0-19. Increases gradually. Default value: 0.
• LEARN: Noise learning setting. Enter the noise learning mode by pressing the Up/Down button. A horizontal line will display, and any sound made during this process will be sampled as noise, saved, and filtered out.
• SPEED: Speed setting, range 0-4 (from slow to fast). Default value: 2.
• SLEEP: Standby settings. Options: 0 (No sleep), 1 (Clock when quiet), 2 (Standby when quiet).

6.2. Display Modes

The device offers over 10 display modes. Here are some examples:

• Mode 0: Spectrum - Standard frequency spectrum display.

  

• Mode 1: Classical Spectrum - A classic spectrum analyzer visualization.

  

• Mode 2: Spectrum Envelope - Displays the envelope of the spectrum.

  

• Mode 3: Waterfall Chart - A cascading display of frequency over time.

  

• Mode 4: Water Lamp - Flowing display where color indicates strength.

  

• Mode 5: Amplitude Water Lamp - Similar to Water Lamp, focusing on amplitude.

  

• Modes 6-9: Level Light Mode - Various level light visualizations.

  

• Mode 10: Clock and Level Light Mode - Combines clock display with level light.

  

6.3. Sensitivity Adjustment

• Adjust the back input attenuation potentiometer to fine-tune the input sensitivity.
• Use the GAIN adjustment (range 0-19) for further sensitivity control.

6.4. Clock Adjustment

• Enter the time display mode (Mode 10).
• Use the Down key (swing button) to select the digit position you wish to change.
• Use the Up key (swing button) to adjust the number.

6.5. Product Demonstration Video

7. User Tips

• Input Source Selection: The device supports both a built-in microphone for voice-controlled pickup and a 3.5mm audio jack for direct audio input. Remember to toggle the MIC switch (5) accordingly. If using the 3.5mm jack, ensure the MIC switch is OFF to prevent ambient noise from interfering with the direct audio signal.
• Compatibility: This VFD Music Spectrum Display is generally compatible with various audio systems, including car radios (e.g., Android car play) and home amplifiers. Connect it to the audio output of your source for optimal visualization.
• Noise Filtering: Utilize the "LEARN" function in the menu to filter out persistent background noise in your environment, ensuring a cleaner and more accurate music spectrum display.

8. Troubleshooting

• Display not lighting up:
  • Check power connections. Ensure the correct voltage (5V Type-C or 7-15V DC) is supplied and the cables are securely connected.
  • Verify the power source is functional.
• No audio visualization:
  • If using the built-in microphone, ensure the MIC switch (5) is ON and there is audible sound in the environment.
  • If using the 3.5mm audio jack, ensure the cable is securely connected to both the device and the audio source, and the MIC switch (5) is OFF.
  • Check the audio output settings of your source device.
  • Adjust the GAIN and Audio input attenuation settings.
• Display is too dim or too bright:
  • Adjust the Bright adjustment knob (7) on the back of the unit.
• Unwanted background noise affecting display:
  • Use the "LEARN" function in the menu to sample and filter out ambient noise.
  • Ensure the MIC switch is OFF if using the 3.5mm audio input.
• Display shows incorrect time:
  • Follow the "Clock Adjustment" instructions in Section 6.4 to set the correct time.

9. Specifications

10. Maintenance

• Cleaning: To clean the screen, use a soft, dry cloth. If necessary, a small amount of absolute alcohol can be used. Do not use other solvents or liquids.
• Storage: Store the device in a dry environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid high humidity (above 90%).
• Handling: Handle the device with care, especially the glass VFD screen, to avoid impacts or vibrations that could cause damage.
• No User Serviceable Parts: Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the device yourself. Unauthorized disassembly may void any potential warranty and can lead to further damage or personal injury due to high voltage components.

11. Warranty and Support

For any issues or questions not covered in this manual, please contact the seller or manufacturer's customer support. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims. Please note that product failures caused by non-quality problems (e.g., improper use, unauthorized modification) are typically not covered under warranty.