We are using a .NET class to read and write from/to a LK202-25-USB. We write every 25ms, and read (GPIs) every 500ms.
The .NET class throws the exception:
I'm suspecting something fishy in the .Net SerialPort class or ftdi driver problem is we have no control over either.
However this doesn't mean you are completly out of options, the FTDI drivers have an alternative mode called D2XX mode which bypasses the virtual serial port and gives you a more direct API to the chip.
You can find a C# interface library and some sample code on the ftdi page here do note however that that page is a little out dated, they tell you you need different drivers, this is however no longer the case. The current drivers support both d2xx and vcp at the same time.
Thanks for this, I think your solution will work, developers are working on that now.
However we have another query; we need to be able to use the screen upside down sometimes (our chassis is sometimes mounted on a wall rather than a desk) therefore we were looking for a way to invert the displayed text. Would using the FTDI drivers allow us to invert characters? or define our own character set? or do you know of any way we could achieve this?
If not, can you recommend a display from your range which will allow us to invert the displayed text? Ideally of the same form factor with mounting holes in the same position so that we don't have to change our chassis designs.
Well the alphanumeric units are most likely out, the font table is stored in the rom table of the controller and cannot be changed. It allows 8 custom characters but i doubt that will be enough to fit your needs.
Any of the graphical units will do the trick though since you have full control over the fonts. If you want to stay near the same size of the 2x20 unit the GLK12232 would probably be a good choice (but not perfect)