LCD Display

Overview

Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) is a type of alphanumeric or graphic display based on liquid crystals. LCDs are available in many different sizes, shapes and styles. In hackSpace we have the standard HD44780 LCD, which have 16 columns and 2 rows, for a total of 32 characters. The text is displayed on white and the background is blue. The single LED used in the display can be dimmed easily using a potentiometer or PWM, it uses less powered than LCD with EL (electroluminescent) backlight. These sorts of displays are used with machines or microcontrollers to measure data or distance of a specific component, however nowadays OLEDs are taking control of the market.

Health & safety

  • Ensure you are familiar with all H&S rules that apply to the environment you are working in.
  • Identify where first aid can be found in your work space
  • Keep all components dry and free from liquid spillages
  • To avoid static, make sure your work surface is sufficiently earthed