Graphical LCD (GLCD) Buying Guide For Arduino

Previously, we published how to interface and run 1602A blue backlight 16×2 LCD and also some projects with that display. Graphical LCD Actually Practical Over 16×2 LCDs. There is 20×4 LCDs as well (which has difference). Here is Graphical LCD (GLCD) Buying Guide For Arduino as There Are Matters to Know Like Controllers. 1602A 16×2 LCD actually easier as it is far more basic electronic component than a Graphical LCD. These Graphical LCDs were used once on mobile phones. Cheap China touch screen TFT LCDs like that from MCUFRIEND has problems like facing unknown drivers. Those units commonly are recycled, like Nokia 5110 display. It seems to us that 1602A 16×2 LCD are freshly manufactured as they are commonly used in various works. These cheap China Graphical LCD (GLCD) probably similarly made from recycled stuffs with good mounting on PCB. 128×64 LCD means there are 128 columns and 64 rows, if you multiply 128 by 64, you’ll get the resolution, which is 1024.

Graphical LCD (GLCD) Buying Guide For Arduino

JHD12864E is common model of Graphical LCD and this is what you’ll find libraries, examples all over the internet. This model uses two KS0108 controllers. Graphical LCD with KS0108 controllers is what we have libraries and wiring documentation on Arduino’s official website, although unofficial that is what commonly used for wiring and as library:

JHD12864E comes in two variants of colors – regular yellow backlight with black text/graphics and blue backlight with white text/graphics. Second type is not suitable where reading is under the sun. We usually like blue backlight LCDs for their better look.

Last part of discussion probably around an agreeable pricing. At this moment, nowhere on this earth, JHD12864E should cost more than $10 to $12 per unit. 5-6 years back, their price was double, you may face online shops with that older pricing. Honestly, these cheap China stuffs has no warranty of longevity and buying from somewhere where price is lower and there are some reviews works fine.

Also, you are likely to have the need to buy male header pins to connect with the board. Soldering male headers with the LCD demands minimum experience of soldering. If case you are not used, seek someone to solder it for you. These PCBs are not so great to give chance of multiple time soldering and de-soldering – copper connection simply falls like dried leaves.