Matrix orbital VFD control boards

[jshamlet]

I recently bought a small supply of bare Noritake U-series VFD's. For those wondering; these are LCD emulator VFD's that have the same pin-out and command set as a standard HD44780 based LCD.

I have been looking for serial "backpacks" for these, and I like the firmware of the Matrix Orbital displays. In particular, the ability to attach a keypad, and create bargraphs, etc. Is it possible to get just the control board, without the VFD?

I presently have the 4x20 and 2x24 Noritake VFD's.

Thanks!

[Henry]

We normaly do not do offer bare controllers because it usualy comes back and bites us on the butt. How many of the 4x20 would you be looking at? Are you wanting the Serial or USB controller?

[jshamlet]

I understand the issue. I only have one 4x20 display, and one 2x24. I'm not sure how the 2x24 would work - as that isn't a standard LCD geometry.

As for trouble later, I'm an experienced electrical engineer, but I'll understand if you sell the board without a warranty. I did once teach students how to solder as a grad student in college, though.

If I can get a board, I'd like to get one with a keypad interface, such as the VK204-25.

On a side note, how would the VK202-25 board work with a 2x24 FVD? Would it ignore the last two columns or what?

[Henry]

I'm glad you understand. I will be able to get you a controller for the 4x20. I talked with the engineers and have concluded that the 2x20 controller board will probably work on the 2x24 displays but certain commands and functions will not work, like autoscroll and so on. When sending text normaly, it will probably appear on the 20-24 columns, but you will not be able to access those possitions with the Set Cursor Possition command. The official anwser is we think it will work, but don't know how well.

I did once teach students how to solder as a grad student in college, though.

We are still trying to teach one of our Engineers to solder as well, he as a Masters in Electrical Engineers...


If you are interested in the board, e-mail alintott@matrixorbital.ca with how many you want and he will give you a price and any other instructions.