lcd_display

LCD display (IIC)

The I2C LCD display is a solution for projects that require a clear display of text and numeric data on two lines. It allows easy connection via the I2C bus and immediate display of values using the micro:bit in the MakeCode environment. Try displaying temperature, humidity, variable names, messages or other data and learn the basics of programming, electronics and working with output elements in a fun way.
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Description

The TM1637 LED display is a simple output module that allows you to clearly display numerical values using a four-digit seven-segment display. It is ideal for projects that need to display data such as temperature, time, scores or other measured values. Thanks to the dupont wires, you can easily connect it to the micro:bit via an expansion board.

Specifications

  • Display manufacturer: FORDATA
  • Designation: RC1602B-FHW-ESV
  • Control chip: ST7066U
  • IIC converter: PCF8574T
  • Character set: English/Japanese
  • Logic power supply: 3 V
  • Module dimensions: 80 × 36 × 13,5 mm
  • Active area: 56,2 × 11,5 mm
  • Number of characters: 16 × 2 rows
  • Dimensions of the sign: 2,95 × 5,55 mm
  • Character spacing: 3,55 × 5,95 mm
  • Point spacing: 0,60 × 0,70 mm
  • Point size: 0,55 × 0,65 mm
  • Interface: 16-pin SIL, 2,54 mm pitch (top, left)
  • Display cycle: 1/8, bias 1/4
  • Viewing angle: 6th hour (preferred)
  • Temperature range: –20 to +70°C
  • Backlight: ne

Components


LCD display (IIC)

BBC MICRO:BIT V2.2
mb2 photo front
Expansion board MB2

Dupont wire 20 cm

Connection

  • VCC – connect to 3V3 (white power strip) to power the module.
  • GND – connect to GND (black bar), which is ground.
  • SCL – I2C bus clock signal, connect to the SCL pin (usually P19).
  • SDA – I2C bus data signal, connect to the SDA pin (usually P20).


When connecting, we recommend that both the micro:bit and the expansion board are turned off. After connecting all the wires, the board can be turned on and the first data can be displayed on the display using the MakeCode programming environment. The display supports character display in two lines of 16 characters and is suitable for displaying text messages, sensor data or interactive outputs within projects.

LCD_Connection

Programme

Basic program

To control the display, we need to install an LCD library into the Make code environment. We recommend the MakerBit library, which is the most suitable for this type of display.

After successful installation, we can use the blocks from the Makerbit tab. On the right you can see a sample program that will help you understand how to program the display. To edit the program, click on the edit icon in the upper right corner.

Tasks

Task 1: Writing out the text

To work with an external LCD display, you need to use blocks from the LCD1602 tab, which you will first install. Using the appropriate blocks, you can then display text or numbers on the display. For example, try displaying your name or the name of your school on the first line.

Task 2: Changing the line and position of text

Use the text position block to adjust which line and position your text appears on. Test different combinations to see how many characters fit on one line. Try displaying text left-aligned, right-aligned, and centered.

Task 3: Measuring and displaying the value

Create a simple program that reads an analog value from a pin (e.g. P0) and displays it on the second line of the LCD display. First round the value and then update it every second. Try connecting a temperature sensor or a photoresistor, for example.