I've updated the files section of the Smartsockets group to include the IV-17/IV-4 Smartsocket code, a freely distributable .hex file to program a pic 18F26k22
The code drives four tubes, multiplexed via an HV driver IC and each tube is addressable via serial instructions. There are over 20 digit transition effects built in.
Just added, is a 4Play (like four letter word) routine. Just sending the command 4Play*On to the serial port starts a word ladder routine. The amount of time each word is held for before changing is programmable, as are the number of letters which should be changed each cycle. There are about 3500 words, including 19 profane words.
More details are in the group
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/smartsockets/ , any enquiries or questions can be posted there if you like.
Chris Barron,
email : fixitsan-at-aol-dot-com