How to Use Serial Enabled 16x2 LCD - Black on Green 5V: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Serial Enabled 16x2 LCD - Black on Green 5V is a versatile and user-friendly display module that allows users to add a readable interface to their electronic projects. This component features a 16-character by 2-line liquid crystal display capable of displaying letters, numbers, and special characters. With its serial communication interface, it simplifies the process of integrating a display into projects, requiring fewer pins than parallel LCDs and making it ideal for microcontroller-based applications, such as Arduino projects.

• User interfaces for electronic devices
• Real-time data output displays
• Menu systems for settings and options
• Debugging tool for displaying system statuses

• Operating Voltage: 5V
• Display Type: 16 characters x 2 lines
• Backlight: Green LED
• Character Color: Black
• Communication: Serial (TTL)
• Baud Rate: Configurable (default 9600 bps)

1. Connect the VSS pin to the ground of your power supply.
2. Connect the VDD pin to a +5V supply.
3. Adjust the VE pin for desired contrast, or connect it to a potentiometer for adjustable contrast.
4. Connect the RX pin to the TX pin of your microcontroller.
5. Optionally, connect the A and K pins to +5V and ground, respectively, to power the backlight.

• Always ensure that the power supply does not exceed 5V as it may damage the LCD.
• Use a current-limiting resistor if connecting the backlight directly to 5V.
• For longer cable runs, consider using shielded cables to reduce noise on the serial line.
• Avoid placing the LCD in direct sunlight or high-temperature environments to prevent damage.

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

SoftwareSerial mySerial(10, 11); // RX, TX

void setup() {
  // Set the baud rate to match the LCD's default baud rate
  mySerial.begin(9600);
  
  // Clear the screen
  mySerial.write(0x7C);
  mySerial.write(0x2D);
}

void loop() {
  // Set the cursor to the beginning of the first line
  mySerial.write(0xFE);
  mySerial.write(0x80);
  
  // Print a message on the first line
  mySerial.print("Hello, World!");
  
  // Set the cursor to the beginning of the second line
  mySerial.write(0xFE);
  mySerial.write(0xC0);
  
  // Print a message on the second line
  mySerial.print("Serial LCD Demo");
  
  // Wait for 3 seconds
  delay(3000);
  
  // Clear the screen before looping
  mySerial.write(0x7C);
  mySerial.write(0x2D);
}

• Display not powering on: Check the power connections and ensure the supply is 5V.
• Characters not visible or dim: Adjust the contrast using the VE pin or check the backlight connections.
• Garbled or incorrect characters: Ensure the baud rate of the microcontroller matches the LCD's baud rate.

• If the display is not responding, try resetting the power to the LCD.
• Ensure that the serial connections are secure and there is no loose wiring.
• If using long wires, keep them away from high-power lines to avoid electromagnetic interference.

Q: Can I use this LCD with a 3.3V system? A: No, this LCD is designed for 5V operation. Using it with 3.3V may result in dim or unreadable characters.

Q: How do I change the baud rate of the LCD? A: The baud rate can be changed using a specific command sequence, which is detailed in the LCD's datasheet.

Q: Can I use this LCD without an Arduino? A: Yes, any microcontroller with a UART interface can be used to communicate with the LCD.

Q: Is it possible to create custom characters? A: Yes, the LCD supports custom characters. You can define them using the appropriate command sequence.