How to Use LCD TFT screen ILI9488 HD : Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The ILI9488 HD is a high-definition TFT LCD screen with In-Plane Switching (IPS) technology, offering vivid color reproduction and wide viewing angles. This display is commonly used in IoT projects, embedded systems, and DIY electronics, providing a rich user interface for applications such as smart home devices, portable instruments, and gaming consoles.

• Display Type: TFT LCD with IPS technology
• Screen Size: 3.5 inches (diagonal)
• Resolution: 320 x 480 pixels
• Color Depth: 16 million colors (24-bit)
• Interface: 8/16-bit parallel, 3/4-wire SPI
• Touch Screen: Optional resistive or capacitive touch panel

• Operating Voltage: 2.5V to 3.3V
• Logic Level Voltage: 3.3V (5V tolerant with level shifter)
• Current Consumption: Typically 20mA (backlight off), up to 150mA (backlight on)

1. Power Connections:

   • Connect the VCC pin to the 3.3V output on the Arduino.
   • Connect the GND pin to a ground pin on the Arduino.

2. SPI Interface:

   • Connect SCK to the SCK pin (Digital 13 on UNO).
   • Connect MOSI to the MOSI pin (Digital 11 on UNO).
   • Connect CS to a free digital pin (e.g., Digital 10).
   • Connect D/C to another free digital pin (e.g., Digital 9).
   • Connect RESET to another free digital pin (e.g., Digital 8).

3. Backlight Control:

   • Connect LED to a PWM-capable pin if brightness control is needed, or directly to 3.3V for full brightness.

4. Touch Panel (Optional):

   • If the touch panel is used, connect T_CS, T_IRQ, T_CLK, T_DIN, and T_DO to the corresponding pins on the Arduino.

#include <SPI.h>
#include <Adafruit_GFX.h>
#include <Adafruit_ILI9488.h>

// Pin configuration
#define TFT_CS   10
#define TFT_DC   9
#define TFT_RST  8

// Create an ILI9488 display object
Adafruit_ILI9488 tft = Adafruit_ILI9488(TFT_CS, TFT_DC, TFT_RST);

void setup() {
  // Initialize the display
  tft.begin();
  // Set the rotation before starting
  tft.setRotation(1);
  // Fill the screen with black color
  tft.fillScreen(ILI9488_BLACK);
}

void loop() {
  // Main loop code
  // Example: Draw a red rectangle
  tft.fillRect(50, 50, 100, 100, ILI9488_RED);
  // Delay for demonstration purpose
  delay(2000);
}

• Always ensure that the power supply voltage matches the specifications.
• Use a level shifter if connecting to a 5V logic level device.
• Avoid exposing the display to direct sunlight or high temperatures.
• Handle the display with care to prevent damage to the screen or the flex cables.

• Screen not powering on: Check the power connections and ensure the voltage is within the specified range.
• No display or corrupted image: Verify the SPI or parallel connections and ensure proper initialization in the code.
• Touch not responsive: If using the touch panel, check the touch-specific connections and calibrate the touch controller if necessary.

• Double-check wiring against the pin configuration table.
• Use the example code as a starting point and adjust according to your setup.
• Ensure that the library versions used are compatible with your display module.

Q: Can I use this display with a 5V system? A: Yes, but a level shifter is required for the logic pins to ensure they are 3.3V.

Q: How can I adjust the brightness of the backlight? A: Connect the LED pin to a PWM-capable pin and use analogWrite() to adjust the brightness.

Q: Is it possible to use this display in portrait and landscape modes? A: Yes, you can change the display orientation by adjusting the setRotation() parameter in your code.

For further assistance, consult the manufacturer's datasheet and technical forums specific to the ILI9488 HD display.