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Flip-dot display simulator

by @flipletters· Landscape · Retro Tech

A high-density flip-dot matrix, white dots on black, like a retro bus or train destination sign. Type text or import an image and every dot flips with an electromagnetic fizz.

TL;DR

A high-density 84-by-28 flip-dot matrix — white dots on black — that rasterizes any text into dot-matrix lettering with a fizzy electromagnetic flip sound. Reads as bus-sign / retro-tech signage; also accepts painted dot grids and imported images. Density presets go from low to high resolution, landscape or portrait.

flip dotmatrixretrodisplay
Make yours free
Includes the complete editable project. Change the words, timing, colors, sounds, transitions, and output format before exporting.

How to make it

  1. 1.Click “Make yours free” to open the Flip-Dot board in Studio.
  2. 2.Type your text, paint dots, or import an image.
  3. 3.Choose a density preset and landscape or portrait layout.
  4. 4.Preview and export an MP4.
Make yours free

FAQ

What is a flip-dot display?
An electromechanical sign made of small discs that are black on one side and bright on the other. A magnet flips each disc to draw text or pictures. They're common on buses and trains.
Can I change the resolution?
Yes. Density presets go from chunky low-res dots to a fine high-res matrix.
Is it free?
Yes. The template is free to customize in FlipLetters Studio, and you can export a free MP4 after a quick sign-in. Premium plans add higher resolutions and no watermark.

Flipcode

.flipopen board language

This free template is open flipcode — FlipLetters' board language (like Markdown for flap boards). Copy it, remix it in any text editor, or paste it into the Studio's </> FLIPCODE panel.

Use this code
flipletters v1 · board fileFlipcode docs →
flipletters v1
// Flip-Dot — 28×84 board. Edit, then Apply.

name: demo-flipdot
board: flipdot 28x84
output: 1920x1080 30fps
sound: fizz volume 0.7
speed: 1x
seed: 3

--- slide 1
hold: 0s
flip: sweepColumns 20/s jitter 0.1 stagger 0.03
| TRAIN INFO
| 12:15 ZURICH 19

--- slide 2
hold: 0s
flip: randomDissolve 18/s jitter 0.25 stagger 0.05
| 12:23 BERLIN 07
| 12:47 BOLOGNA 22

--- slide 3
hold: 0s
flip: wave 16/s jitter 0.15 stagger 0.02
| HAVE A
| GOOD TRIP

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