Cs3691-Esiot (Preethi.r) Assignment 1
Cs3691-Esiot (Preethi.r) Assignment 1
ASSIGNMENT-1
LCD Interfacing
1. Introduction
In the realm of embedded systems, user interaction is crucial. Displays play a vital role in
providing feedback to users or developers. Among various display technologies, the Liquid
Crystal Display (LCD) stands out for its simplicity, low power consumption, and ease of
interfacing with microcontrollers. LCD interfacing refers to the method of connecting a
display module with an embedded processor or microcontroller for visual output.
2. What is an LCD?
A Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) is an electronic display module that uses the light-modulating
properties of liquid crystals to display information. Unlike LEDs, LCDs do not emit light
directly. Instead, they use a backlight or reflector to produce visible images.
LCDs like 16x2 and 20x4 character displays are most commonly used because they are
cheap, reliable, and easy to program.
4. LCD Pin Description (16x2 LCD)
15 LED+ Backlight +
16 LED- Backlight -
5. Operating Modes
LCD modules can work in:
• 8-bit mode: All data lines (D0–D7) are used. Requires more I/O pins.
• 4-bit mode: Only higher 4 bits (D4–D7) are used. Commands and data are sent in two
parts (nibbles). Saves microcontroller pins.
o 1 = Data register
• RW (Read/Write):
o 0 = Write to LCD
• EN (Enable):
o A high-to-low pulse on this pin initiates data transfer.
• Digital Thermometers
• Simple interface
• Cost-effective
• User-friendly display