The Alphabet Machine is a tool for seeing and hearing the rhythm and pentameter of text. Wooden type blocks (from a printing press) move up and down as digital text comes into the device. When played through the device, each piece of text reveals a unique relationship between the patterns in the text and the movement, rhythm, and sounds of the device. Additionally, this piece is commentary on the relationship between digital text and the texture of communication in a digital era.

Anyone interested in typography, text-based art, or visualization.

When someone approaches the the project they can view the visualization, hear the rythm of text, and experience text in new and meaningful way.

Intended Physical Setup
16x22 inch space on a pedestal. Type is constructed in a cabinet with mechanics; angled, facing the viewer. The type is input from a computer in a non disclosed location.

What part of it do you currently have working?

For software, the java components have been written to gather email, extract the character data, and send serial data to the PIC. For hardware, the Allegro 6276 16-Bit latched LED driver is used to drive 48-bit data packages when chained. Additionally the the latched LED driver successfully powers the 12v solenoids. The project is fully operational.