You can also use some pads on the top and some on the bottom – since they connect to the same thing on the LCD module the top and bottom pins are interchangeable. What this provides for is more flexibility in where you can connect your wires to control the LCD.įor example, if you plan on mounting your LCD panel in some type of enclosure, maybe the bottom pins would be more accessible.
My video hook driver 2 what is series#
The one I use in this video tutorial series has a set of 16 pads at the top of the LCD and 16 pads at the bottom. The LCD you buy will have 16 pads where you will hook up wires or headers to connect to your Arduino, but many manufactures have made modules that also have a second set of 16 pins that are simply duplicates of the first. Plus, they can have backlights to help make the characters to stand out better in different light settings. LCDs can also come in different colors – so you don’t have to go for the standard martian green.
Some of the more common sizes are 16 x 2, 20 x 2 and 20 x 4, and the bigger 40 x 4. In the picture below, the LCD would be advertised as a 16 X 2 segment. The size of the display will be given in the number of character in a row and then the number of rows. The functions in the library won’t necessarily work on other types of LCD screens. So why do we need an LCD that is compatible with the Hitachi HD44780 driver? It’s because the LiquidCrystal Library that we will be using to control the LCD from the Arduino uses the driver as its standard. Does it have 16 pins? If the answer is yes, you should feel pretty comfortable that it is compatible. If you can’t find any documentation to support whether or not the LCD you want to buy will work, then check the pin out. This driver is so common it is pretty much the standard. “Your LCD must be compatible with Hitachi HD44780 driver.”īut don’t worry. Let’s cut to the chase – the MOST important thing you need to ensure when you are buying your LCD is that is compatible with Hitachi HD44780 driver. The LCD screen itself is a subcomponent of the module, which includes other components and circuitry that make interfacing with the LCD screen far more accessible. This is because, when you buy LCD screens – you are more than likely going to buy it as a “plug-and-play” module. Notice some verbiage as we talk about LCDs, you will keep seeing the two words “LCD Module”. What to consider when buying an LCD module for Arduino (If you already have an LCD skip to the next section) Want to jump-start your Arduino skills? Click here to join our 12-part HD Video Course.