VK204-25
Including VK204-25-422, VK204-25-USB.
Technical Manual
Revision 2.1
PCB Revision: 3.0 or Higher
Firmware Revision: 7.3 or Higher
Revision History
Revision
2.1
2.0
1
Description
Correction to Set Non-Standard Baud Rate command
LKVK Manual split into individual manuals.
Author
Divino
Divino
Contents
Revision History ............................................................................................................................................ 1
Contents ........................................................................................................................................................ 2
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................. 4
Quick Connect Guide .................................................................................................................................... 5
Standard Module ...................................................................................................................................... 5
Recommended Parts ............................................................................................................................. 5
Serial Connections................................................................................................................................. 6
I2C Connections ..................................................................................................................................... 7
USB Module .............................................................................................................................................. 8
Recommended Parts ............................................................................................................................. 8
USB Connections ................................................................................................................................... 9
RS422 Module ......................................................................................................................................... 10
RS422 Connections ............................................................................................................................. 10
Software ...................................................................................................................................................... 11
Hyperterminal ......................................................................................................................................... 11
uProject ................................................................................................................................................... 12
Application Notes.................................................................................................................................... 12
Hardware .................................................................................................................................................... 13
Standard Model ...................................................................................................................................... 13
Communication/Power Header .......................................................................................................... 13
Serial DB9 Connector .......................................................................................................................... 13
Power Through DB9 Jumper ............................................................................................................... 14
Protocol Select Jumpers ...................................................................................................................... 14
USB Model .............................................................................................................................................. 15
Mini USB Connector ............................................................................................................................ 15
Alternate USB Header ......................................................................................................................... 15
Alternate Power Connector ................................................................................................................ 15
RS422 Model ........................................................................................................................................... 16
RS422 Header ...................................................................................................................................... 16
Alternate Power Connector ................................................................................................................ 16
Common Features................................................................................................................................... 17
2
General Purpose Outputs ................................................................................................................... 17
Dallas One-Wire Connector ................................................................................................................ 17
Keypad Header .................................................................................................................................... 18
Power ...................................................................................................................................................... 19
Display ..................................................................................................................................................... 19
Communication ....................................................................................................................................... 20
Manual Override ..................................................................................................................................... 20
Commands .................................................................................................................................................. 21
1.
Communications ............................................................................................................................. 21
2.
Text ................................................................................................................................................. 22
3.
Special Characters ........................................................................................................................... 24
4.
General Purpose Output ................................................................................................................. 26
5.
Dallas One-Wire .............................................................................................................................. 27
6.
Keypad............................................................................................................................................. 28
7.
Display Functions ............................................................................................................................ 29
8.
Data Security ................................................................................................................................... 30
9.
Miscellaneous ................................................................................................................................. 31
Appendix ..................................................................................................................................................... 32
Command Summary ............................................................................................................................... 32
Character Sets ......................................................................................................................................... 34
Block Diagram ......................................................................................................................................... 35
Environmental Specifications.................................................................................................................. 35
Electrical Tolerances ............................................................................................................................... 36
Optical Characteristics ............................................................................................................................ 36
Dimensional Drawings ............................................................................................................................ 37
Ordering ...................................................................................................................................................... 39
Part Numbering Scheme ......................................................................................................................... 39
Options .................................................................................................................................................... 39
Accessories .............................................................................................................................................. 40
Definitions ................................................................................................................................................... 42
Contact ........................................................................................................................................................ 42
3
Introduction
Figure 1: VK204-25 Display
The VK204-25 is an intelligent alphanumeric liquid crystal display designed to decrease development
time by providing an instant solution to any project. In addition to the RS232, TTL and I2C protocols
available in the standard model, USB and RS422 communication models allow the VK204-25 to be
connected to a wide variety of host controllers. Communication speeds of up to 115.2kbps for serial
protocols and 100kbps for I2C ensure lightning fast data display.
The simple command structure permits easy software control of many settings including backlight
brightness, screen contrast, and baud rate. On board memory provides up to forty custom characters
which can be saved within the unit and recalled for start screens, bar graphs or larger numbers.
User input is available through a five by five matrix style keypad, and six general purpose outputs
provide simple switchable five volt sources. In addition, a Dallas One-Wire header provides a
convenient communication interface for up to thirty-two devices.
The versatile VK204-25, with all the features mentioned above, is available in a variety of colour,
voltage, and temperature options to suit almost any application.
4
Quick Connect Guide
Standard Module
Table 1: Standard Headers
#
1
2
3
4
Header
Communication/Power
DB9
Keypad
GPO
5
Dallas One-Wire
Mate
SCCPC5V/BBC
CSS1FT/CSS4FT
KPP4x4
None Offered
Temperature
Probe
Figure 2: Standard Connections
The standard version of the VK204-25 allows for user configuration of three common communication
protocols. First, the unit can communicate using serial protocol at either RS323 or TTL voltage levels.
Second, it can communicate using the Inter-Integrated Circuit, or I2C protocol. Connections for each
protocol can be accessed through the four pin Communication/Power Header as outlined in the Serial
Connections and I2C Connections sections below.
Recommended Parts
The most common cable choice for any standard Matrix Orbital
display, the Communication/Power Cable offers a simple connection
to the unit with familiar interfaces. DB9 and floppy power headers
provide all necessary input to drive your display.
Figure 3: Communication/Power
Cable (SCCPC5V)
For a more flexible interface to the VK204-25, a Breadboard Cable
may be used. This provides a simple four wire connection that is
popular among developers for its ease of use in a breadboard
environment.
Figure 4: Breadboard Cable (BBC)
5
Serial Connections
The serial interface provides a classic connection to the VK204-25. The Communication/Power Cable is
most commonly used for this set up as it provides connections for DB9 serial and floppy power cables.
To place your board in serial mode, adhere to the steps laid out below.
1. Set the Protocol Select Jumpers.
RS232: Connect the three jumpers* in the 232 protocol box with the zero ohm jumper resistors
provided or an alternate wire or solder solution.
TTL: Connect the two jumpers* in the TTL protocol box.
*Note: Jumpers must be removed from all protocol boxes save for the one in use.
2. Make the connections.
a. Connect the four pin female header of the Communication/Power Cable to the
Communication/Power Header of your VK204-25.
b. Insert the male end of your serial cable to the corresponding DB9 header of the
Communication/Power Cable and the mate the female connector with the desired
communication port of your computer.
c. Select an unmodified floppy cable from a PC power supply and connect it to the power header
of the Communication/Power Cable.
3. Create.
uProject or hyperterminal will serve to get you started, and then move on with your own
development. Instructions for the former can be found below and a variety of application
notes are available for the latter at www.matrixorbital.ca/appnotes.
6
I2C Connections
A more advanced connection to the VK204-25 is provided by the I2C protocol setting. This is best
accomplished using a breadboard and the Breadboard Cable. Power must be supplied from your
breadboard or another external source. To dive right into your application and use the VK204-25 in I2C
mode, get started with the guidelines below.
1. Set the Protocol Select switches.
I2C: Ensure that the two I2C jumpers in the corresponding protocol box are connected while all
others are open.
2. Make the connections.
a. Connect the Breadboard Cable to the Communication/Power Header on your VK204-25 and
plug the four leads into your breadboard. The red lead will require power, while the black
should be connected to ground, and the green and yellow should be connected to your
controller clock and data lines respectively.
b. Pull up the clock and data lines to five volts using a resistance between one and ten kilohms on
your breadboard.
3. Create.
This time you're on your own. While there are many examples within the Matrix Orbital
AppNote section, www.matrixorbital.ca/appnotes, too many controllers and languages exist to
cover them all. If you get stuck in development, it is possible to switch over to another protocol
on the standard board, and fellow developers are always on our forums for additional support.
7
USB Module
Table 2: Standard Headers
Figure 5: USB Connections
#
Header
1
Mini USB
2
3
4
5
6
Alternate USB
Alternate Power
Keypad
GPO
Dallas One-Wire
Mate
EXTMUSB3FT/
INTMUSB3FT
None Offered
PCS
KPP4x4
None Offered
Temperature Probe
The VK204-25-USB offers a single USB protocol for easy connection to a host computer. The simple and
widely available protocol can be accessed using the on board mini B style USB connector as outlined in
the USB Connections section.
Recommended Parts
The External Mini USB cable is recommended for the VK204-25-USB display.
It will connect to the miniB style header on the unit and provide a
connection to a regular A style USB connector, commonly found on a PC.
Figure 6: External Mini USB
Cable (EXTMUSB3FT)
8
USB Connections
The USB connection is the quickest, easiest solution for PC development. After driver installation, the
VK204-25-USB will be accessible through a virtual serial port, providing the same result as a serial setup
without the cable hassle. To connect to your VK204-25-USB, please follow the steps below.
1. Set the Protocol Select Jumpers.
USB: The VK204-25-USB offers USB protocol only. Model specific hardware prevents this unit
from operating in any other protocol, and does not allow other models to operate in the USB
protocol. Protocol Select Jumpers on the USB model cannot be moved.
2. Make the connections.
Plug the mini-B header of your External Mini USB Cable into your VK204-25-USB and the regular
USB header into your computer USB jack.
3. Install the drivers.
a. Download the latest drivers at www.matrixorbital.ca/drivers, and save them to a known
location.
b. When prompted, install the USB bus controller driver automatically.
c. If asked, continue anyway, even though the driver is not signed.
d. When the driver install is complete, your display will turn on, but communication will not yet be
possible.
e. At the second driver prompt, install the serial port driver automatically.
f. Again, if asked, continue anyway.
4. Create.
Use uProject or hyperterminal to get started, and then move on with your own development.
Instructions for the former can be found below and a number of application notes are available
for the latter at www.matrixorbital.ca/appnotes.
9
RS422 Module
Table 3: Standard Headers
#
1
2
3
4
5
Header
RS422
Alternate Power
Keypad
GPO
Dallas One-Wire
Mate
16-30 AWG Wire
PCS
KPP4x4
None Offered
Temperature Probe
Figure 7: RS422 Connections
The VK204-25-422 provides an industrial alternative to the standard RS232 communication protocol.
Rather than single receive and transmit lines, the RS422 model uses a differential pair for each of the
receive and transmit signals to reduce degradation and increase transmission lengths. Power can be
transmitted at distance to a -VPT module or supplied from the immediate vicinity to a regular or -V unit.
RS422 signals are available in a six pin connector as described in the RS422 Connections section.
RS422 Connections
The VK204-25-422 provides a robust RS422 interface to the display line. For this interface, a series of six
wires are usually screwed into the RS422 terminal block provided. An alternate header is also available
to provide local power to a regular or -V unit. To connect to your VK204-25-422, follow the steps below.
1. Set the Protocol Select Jumpers.
RS422: The VK204-25-422 offers only RS422 protocol and does not require any jumper changes.
2. Make the connections.
a. Screw one wire; sized 16 to 30 on the American Wire Gauge, into each of the six terminal block
positions. When local power is supplied, a floppy cable may link to the alternate power header.
b. Connect the Vcc wire to the positive terminal of your power supply and the GND terminal to
the negative or ground lead to provide appropriate power as in Table 43.
c. Secure the A and B wires to your non-inverting and inverting output signals respectively, while
attaching the Z and Y wires to your inverting and non-inverting inputs.
3. Create.
In a PC environment, uProject or hyperterminal will serve to get you started. In addition, a
variety of application notes are also available in a number of different languages to aid in
development. Instructions for the former can be found below and the simple C# example at
www.matrixorbital.ca/appnotes is a great first reference for the latter.
10
Software
The multiple communication protocols available and simple command structure of the VK204-25 means
that a variety of applications can be used to communicate with the display. Text is sent to the display as
a character string, for example, sending the decimal value 41 will result in an 'A' appearing on the
screen. A number of control characters are also activated. Commands are merely values prefixed with a
special command byte, 254 in decimal. While many software programs are available to communicate
with the VK204-25, a number of more common samples are detailed in depth below.
Table 4: Reserved Control Characters
8
Backspace
10
Control Characters
Line feed / New line 12 Clear screen / New page
13
Carriage return
Hyperterminal
Installed on most Windows computers, hyperterminal can be run by selecting run and typing 'hypertrm'
in the command line. This basic program will allow communication between a PC and your display.
When starting up, a name must be given to your connection, and an icon may be chosen, neither is
consequential. Next, it's important to select the appropriate communication port to which your display
is connected. Finally, the settings below must be entered to complete the port setup.
Table 5: Hyperterminal Settings
BPS
19200
Data Bits
8
Parity
None
Stop Bits
1
Flow Control
None
Once a port is successfully set up, data can be sent to an attached display by typing on the keyboard. At
this point, it may be helpful to echo keys to the monitor by selecting properties from the file menu and
opening the ASCII settings from settings tab.
Commands can be sent to an attached display by issuing decimal commands using the number pad.
While the ALT key is held down, four digit decimal values can be sent as a single ASCII character. For
example, to clear the screen, try the following sequence.
ALT +0254 ALT +0088
Figure 8: Hyperterminal Command
Any commands or text desired can be sent to the communication port using this method to provide
total control of any Matrix Orbital display.
11
uProject
The Matrix Orbital alphanumeric display tuner, or uProject, is offered as a free download from the
www.matrixorbital.ca support site. It allows the basic functionality of any display* to be tested using a
simple graphical user interface system.
While basic functionality can be tested using the GUI portion of the program, more advanced users will
enjoy the scripting capability found in the uploader tab. Here commands can be stacked, run, and saved
for later use. Although many commands are available to be dragged into the script dialog, perhaps the
most powerful is the raw data command found in the other branch.
This command allows raw bytes to be sent to the display, permitting many different formats for entry
and displaying in decimal notation. Any command from this manual may be entered in decimal notation
separated by slashes.
/254/ /88/
Figure 9: uProject Command
Again, the clear screen command is sent to a connected display, this time using uProject raw data
command style. Scripts can be run as a whole using the execute command from the script menu, or as
single commands by selecting execute once. Before issuing commands, it is a good idea to ensure
communication with a display is successful using some of the more basic GUI functions in the main
window.
This program provides scratch pad upon which a tome of display projects and ideas can be assembled.
*Note: The uProject AutoDetect function will not perform correctly when a USB display is connected. Please
manually configure any USB display.
Application Notes
Full demonstration programs and code are available for Matrix Orbital displays in the C# language from
Simple C# AppNote Pack in the Matrix Orbital Application Note section at
www.matrixorbital.ca/appnotes. Difficulty increases from beginner, with the Hello World program, to
advanced with the Dallas One-Wire temperature reading application.
Many additional applications are available in a number of different programming languages. These
programs are meant to showcase the capability of the display and are not intended to be integrated into
a final design. For additional information regarding code, please read the On Code document also found
on the support site.
12
Hardware
Standard Model
Communication/Power Header
Table 6: Communication/Power Pinout
Figure 10: Communication/Power Header
Pin
1
2
3
4
Function
Vcc
Rx (SCL)
Tx (SDA)
Gnd
The Communication/Power Header provides a standard connector for interfacing to the VK204-25.
Voltage is applied through pins one and four of the four pin Communication/Power Header. Please
ensure the correct voltage input for your display by referencing the electrical specifications in Table 43
before connecting power. Pins two and three are reserved for serial transmission, using either the RS232/TTL or clocking data through the I²C protocol, depending on what has been selected by the Protocol
Select Jumpers. The versatile Tyco 640456-4-LF style header employed here can be mated to a wide
array of female connectors for a perfect fit in any project.
Serial DB9 Connector
Table 7: Serial DB9 Pinout
Pin
5
3
2
9
Function
Gnd
Rx
Tx
NC/Vcc*
Figure 11: Serial DB9 Connector
The VK204-25 provides a DB-9 Connector to readily interface with serial devices using EIA232 standard
signal levels. It is also possible to communicate at TTL levels of 0 to +5V by setting the Protocol Select
Jumpers to TTL. As an added feature it is also possible to apply power through pin 9 of the DB-9
Connector in order to reduce cable clutter. A standard male DB9 header will provide the perfect mate
for this connector.
*Note: Do not apply voltage through pin 9 of the DB-9 Connector AND through the Communication/Power Header
at the same time.
13
Power Through DB9 Jumper
In order to provide power through pin 9 of the DB-9 Connector you must connect the Power Through
DB-9 Jumper labelled R17, as illustrated below. This connection can be made using a zero ohm resistor,
recommended size 0603, or a solder bridge. The VK204-25 allows all voltage models to use the power
through DB-9 option, see the electrical specifications in Table 43 for voltage requirements.
Power Through DB9 Jumper
Protocol Select Jumpers
The Protocol Select Jumpers provide the means necessary to toggle the standard VK204-25 model
between RS-232, TTL and I²C protocols. As a default, the jumpers are set to RS-232 mode with solder
jumps on the 232 jumpers. In order to place the display module in I²C mode you must first remove the
solder jumps from the 232 jumpers and then place them on the I2C jumpers. The display will now be in
I²C mode and have a default slave address of 0x50, unless it has been changed. Similarly, in order to
change the display to TTL mode, simply remove the zero ohm resistors from the 232 or I²C jumpers and
solder them to the TTL jumpers. Protocol tables are shown below where an `X` designates a connected
jump while an ‘O’ signifies an open connection.
Table 8: RS232 Protocol Settings
RS232
X X X
TTL
0 0
2
IC
0 0
Table 9: TTL Protocol Settings
RS232
O O O
TTL
X X
2
IC
O O
2
Table 10: I C Protocol Settings
RS232
O O O
TTL
O O
2
IC
X X
14
USB Model
Mini USB Connector
Table 11: Mini USB Pinout
Figure 12: Mini USB Connector
Pin
1
2
3
5
Function
Vcc
DD+
Gnd
The VK204-25-USB comes with a familiar Mini USB Connector to fulfill both communication and power
needs. The standard MiniB style header can be connected to any other USB style using the appropriate
cable. Most commonly used with a PC, this connection creates a virtual com port that offers a simple
power solution with a familiar communication scheme.
Alternate USB Header
Table 12: Alternate USB Pinout
Figure 13: Alternate USB Header
Pin
1
2
3
4
Function
Vcc
D+
DGnd
Some advanced applications may prefer the straight four pin connection offered through the Optional
Alternate USB Header. This header offers power and communication access in a simple interface
package. The Optional Alternate USB Header may be added to the VK204-25-USB for an added charge
as part of a custom order. Please use the Contact section to request more information from the friendly
Matrix Orbital sales team.
Alternate Power Connector
Table 13: Alternate Power Pinout
Figure 14: Alternate Power Connector
Pin
1
2
3
4
Function
NC
Gnd
Gnd
Vcc
The Alternate Power Connector provides the ability to power the VK204-25-USB using a second cable.
The Tyco 171825-4 style header is particularly useful for connecting to an unmodified floppy power
cable from a PC power supply for a simple bench power solution.
15
RS422 Model
RS422 Header
Table 14: RS422 Pinout
Figure 15: RS422 Header
Pin
1
2
3
4
5
6
Function
Gnd
Rx (Y)
Inv Rx (Z)
Inv Tx (B)
Tx (A)
Vcc
The six pin RS422 interface header of the VK204-25-422 offers power and ground connections as well as
two differential pair communication lines. Regular and inverted lines are provided for both receive and
transmit signals. Power is supplied locally to the regular or –V variants while the –VPT can receive
power over a distance. The Tyco 282834-6 style header is most suited to a simple wire connection.
Alternate Power Connector
Table 15: Alternate Power Pinout
Figure 16: Alternate Power Connector
Pin
1
2
3
4
Function
NC
Gnd
Gnd
Vcc
The Alternate Power Connector provides the ability to power the VK204-25-422 using a second cable.
This is particularly useful for the regular or -V modules that are to be powered locally. The Tyco 1718254 style header will fit a floppy power cable from a PC power supply for a simple bench power solution.
16
Common Features
General Purpose Outputs
Table 16: GPO Pinout
Figure 17: GPO Header
Pin
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Function
GPO 1
GPO 1
GPO 1
GPO 1
GPO 1
GPO 1
Vcc
Pin
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
Function
Gnd
Gnd
Gnd
Gnd
Gnd
Gnd
Gnd
A unique feature of the VK204-25 is the ability to control relays* and other external devices using one of
six General Purpose Outputs. Each can source up to 20mA of current at five volts when on or sink 10mA
at zero volts when off. The two row, fourteen pin header can be interfaced to a number of female
connectors to provide control to any peripheral devices required.
*Note: If connecting a relay, be sure that it is fully clamped using a diode and capacitor in order to absorb any
electro-motive force (EMF) which will be generated.
Dallas One-Wire Connector
Table 17: Dallas One-Wire Pinout
Figure 18: Dallas One-Wire Connector
Pin
1
2
3
Function
Vcc
D
Gnd
In addition to the six general purpose outputs the VK204-25 offers an Optional Dallas One-Wire bridge,
to allow for an additional thirty two one-wire devices to be connected to the display. This header can be
populated with a Tyco 173979 connector at an added cost by custom order only. Please use the Contact
section to request for more information from the Matrix Orbital sales team.
1.1.
17
Keypad Header
Table 18: Keypad Pinout
Figure 19: Keypad Header
Pin
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Function
Gnd
Row 1
Row 2
Row 3
Row 4
Row 5
Column 1
Column 2
Column 3
Column 4
Column 5
Gnd/Vcc*
To facilitate user input, the VK204-25 provides a Keypad Interface Connector which allows a matrix style
keypad of up to twenty-five keys to be directly connected to the display module. Key presses are
generated when a short is detected between a row and a column. When a key press is generated, a
character specific to that key press is automatically sent on the Tx communication line. If the display
module is running in I²C mode, the “Auto Transmit Keypress” function may be turned off to allow the
key presses to remain in the buffer so that they may be polled. The character that is associated with
each key press may also be altered using the “Assign Key Codes” command. The straight twelve pin
header of the Keypad Interface Connector will interface to a variety of different devices including the
Matrix Orbital KPP4x4 keypad.
*Note: The Ground / +5V pin is toggled by the jumper to the right of the keypad connector. Jump pads 1 & 2 for
+5V or 2 & 3 for GND.
18
Troubleshooting
Power
In order for your Matrix Orbital display to function correctly, it must be supplied with the appropriate
power. If the D2 power LED near the top right corner of the board is not illuminated, power is not
applied correctly. Try following the tips below.
•
•
•
•
•
First, make sure that you are using the correct power connector. Standard floppy drive power
cables from your PC power supply may fit on the Communication/Power Header; however they
do not have the correct pin out to provide power. Matrix Orbital supplies power cable adapters
for connecting to a PC, which can be found in the accessories section.
Next, check the power cable which you are using for continuity. If you don't have an ohm
meter, try using a different power cable, if this does not help try using a different power supply.
If power is applied through the DB9 connector, ensure that the Power Through DB9 Jumper is
connected.
If changes have been made to the protocol select block, ensure all the appropriate Protocol
Select Jumpers are connected and all unused protocol jumpers are disconnected.
The last step will be to check the power interface connector in use on your display. If the power
connections have become loose, or you are unable to resolve the issue, please contact Matrix
Orbital for more information.
Display
If your display is powered successfully, the Matrix Orbital logo, or user created screen should display on
start up. If this is not the case, check out these tips.
Ensure the brightness is not too high or too low. This can result in a darkened or blank screen
respectively. See the
•
•
19
Manual Override section to reset to default.
Make sure that the start screen is not blank. It is possible to overwrite the Matrix Orbital logo
start screen, if this happens the screen may be blank. Try writing to the display to ensure it is
functional, after checking the brightness above.
Communication
When communication of either text or commands is interrupted, try the steps below.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
First, check the communication cable for continuity. If you don't have an ohm meter, try using a
different communication cable. If you are using a PC try using a different Com Port.
Next, please ensure that the display module is set to communicate on the protocol that you are
using, by checking the Protocol Select Jumpers.
In serial protocol, ensure that the host system and display module are both communicating on
the same baud rate. The default baud rate for the display module is 19200 bps.
Match Rx from the VK204-25 to the transmitting pin from your host and the Tx pin to the
receiving pin.
If you are communicating to the display via I²C* please ensure that the data is being sent to the
correct address. The default slave address for the display module is 80.
In I2C mode, connect Rx to the data line of your controller and Tx to the data output.
Unlock the display. See the Set and Save Data Lock command for more info.
Finally, you may reset the display to its default settings using the Manual Override procedure
outlined below.
*Note: I²C communication will always require pull up resistors on SCL and SDA of one to ten kilohms.
Manual Override
Should the settings of your display become altered in a way that dramatically impacts usability, the
default settings can be temporarily restored. To override the display, please follow the steps below.
1. Disconnect power from your display.
2. Place a jumper on the middle two pins of the keypad header, R5 and C1.
3. Reconnect power to your unit, and wait for the start screen before removing the override
jumper.
4. Settings will be temporarily** overridden to the defaults listed in the Manual Override Settings
table. At this point any important settings, such as contrast, backlight, or baud rate, should not
only be set but saved so they remain when the override is removed.
Parameter
Backlight
Contrast
Baud Rate
2
I C Address
Value
255
128
19200
80
Table 19: Manual Override Settings
**Note: The display module will revert back to the old settings once turned off, unless desired settings are saved.
20
Commands
1. Communications
1.1. Changing the I2C
Slave Address
Dec
254 51 Address
Hex
FE 33 Address
ASCII
■ 3 Address
Immediately changes the I2C write address. Only even values are permitted as the next odd address will become
the read address. Default is 80.
Address 1 byte, even value
1.2. Changing the
Baud Rate
Dec
254 57 Speed
Hex
FE 39 Speed
ASCII
■ 9 Speed
Immediately changes the baud rate. Not available in I2C. Baud rate can be temporarily forced to 19200 by a
manual override.
Speed 1 byte, valid settings shown below
Table 20: Accepted Baud Rate Values
Rate
Speed
1200
83
2400
41
4800
207
9600
103
19200
51
28800
34
38400
25
57600
16
115200
8
1.3. Set a Non-Standard
Baud Rate
Dec
254 164 Speed
Hex
FE A4 Speed
ASCII
■ ñ Speed
Immediately changes the baud rate to a non-standard value. Baud must be a whole number between 977 and
153800. Due to rounding, error increases with baud rate, actual baud must be within 3% of desired baud to ensure
accurate communication. Not available in I2C. Can be temporarily forced to 19200 by a manual override.
Speed Calculations shown below, standard crystal speed is 16MHz.
𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 =
𝐶𝑟𝑦𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑙𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑
−1
(8 × 𝐷𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑑𝐵𝑎𝑢𝑑)
Equation 1: Speed Byte Calculation
𝐴𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙𝐵𝑎𝑢𝑑 =
𝐶𝑟𝑦𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑙𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑
(8 × (𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 + 1))
Equation 2: Actual Baud Rate Calculation
|𝐷𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑑𝐵𝑎𝑢𝑑 − 𝐴𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙𝐵𝑎𝑢𝑑|
< 0.03
𝐷𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑑𝐵𝑎𝑢𝑑
Equation 3: Baud Rate Error Calculation
1.4. Transmission
Dec 254 160 Protocol
Protocol Select
Hex
FE A0 Protocol
Selects the protocol used for data transmission from the display. Data transmission to the display is not affected.
Must be set to the protocol in use to receive data correctly.
Protocol
1 byte, 1 for Serial (RS232/RS422/TTL/USB) or 0 for I2C
21
2. Text
2.1. Auto Scroll
On
Dec
254 81
Hex
FE 51
ASCII
■Q
The entire contents of screen are shifted up one line when the end of the screen is reached. Default is on.
2.2. Auto Scroll
Off
Dec
254 82
Hex
FE 52
ASCII
■R
New text is written over the top line when the end of the screen is reached. Default is Auto Scroll on.
2.3. Clear
Screen
Dec
254 88
Hex
FE 58
ASCII
■X
Clears the contents of the screen.
2.4. Changing the
Start Up Screen
Dec
254 64 Characters
Hex
FE 40 Characters
ASCII
■ @ Characters
Changes the message displayed on start up. Custom characters can be included by adding their decimal value (07). Characters will automatically wrap on the display.
Characters
80 bytes, space characters can be added as needed
2.5. Set Auto Line
Wrap On
Dec
254 67
Hex
FE 43
ASCII
■C
Text will wrap to the next consecutive line once a row becomes full. Default is Auto Line Wrap on.
2.6. Set Auto Line
Wrap Off
Dec
254 68
Hex
FE 44
ASCII
■D
Text will skip one line when wrapping once a row becomes full. Writing order will be rows 1, 3, 2, and then 4.
Default is Auto Line Wrap on.
2.7. Set Cursor
Position
Dec
254 71 Column Row
Hex
FE 47 Column Row
ASCII
■ G Column Row
Sets the cursor to a specific position where the next transmitted character is printed.
Column 1 byte, value between 1 and 20
Row
1 byte, value between 1 and 4
22
2.8. Go Home
Dec
254 72
Hex
FE 48
ASCII
■H
Returns the cursor to the top left of the screen.
2.9. Move Cursor
Back
Dec
254 76
Hex
FE 4C
ASCII
■L
Moves cursor one position to the left. Cursor will obey wrap settings.
2.10. Move Cursor
Forward
Dec
254 77
Hex
FE 4D
ASCII
■M
Moves cursor one position to the right. Cursor will obey wrap settings.
2.11. Underline
Cursor On
Dec
254 74
Hex
FE 4A
ASCII
■J
Displays a line under the current cursor position. Can be used with block cursor.
2.12. Underline
Cursor Off
Dec
254 75
Hex
FE 4B
ASCII
■K
Removes line under current cursor position.
2.13. Blinking Block
Cursor On
Dec
254 83
Hex
FE 53
ASCII
■S
Displays a blinking block over the current cursor position. Can be used with underline.
2.14. Blinking Block
Cursor Off
Dec
254 84
Hex
FE 54
ASCII
■T
Removes blinking block over current cursor position.
23
3. Special Characters
3.1. Creating a Custom
Character
Dec
254 78 ID Data
Hex
FE 4E ID Data
ASCII
■ N ID Data
Creates a custom character. Each character is divided into 8 rows of 5 pixels; each data byte represents one row.
Each byte is padded by three zero bits followed by five bits representing each pixel state. A one represents an on
condition while a zero is off. Characters are lost when a new memory bank is loaded, unless they are saved.
ID
1 byte, character ID, value between 0 and 7
Data 8 bytes, character pixel data as shown below
Table 21: Custom Degree Character
Data1 000 p1 p2 p3 p4 p5 00001000 8
Data2 000 p1 p2 p3 p4 p5 00010100 20
Data3 000 p1 p2 p3 p4 p5 00001000 8
Data4 000 p1 p2 p3 p4 p5 00000011 3
Data5 000 p1 p2 p3 p4 p5 00000100 4
Data6 000 p1 p2 p3 p4 p5 00000100 4
Data7 000 p1 p2 p3 p4 p5 00000011 3
Data8 000 p1 p2 p3 p4 p5 00000000 0
3.2. Saving Custom Dec 254 193 Bank ID Data
Characters
Hex
FE C1 Bank ID Data
Provides access to all memory banks to create and save custom characters, graph bars, and large digits. Any new
characters saved will overwrite the old, so care should be taken when writing to any bar or digit memory bank.
Bank structure is shown below.
Bank 1 byte, memory bank ID, value between 0 and 4
ID
1 byte, value between 0 and 7
Data 8 bytes, character pixel data as above
Table 22: Custom Character Banks
0
Start-up Characters
1
Horizontal Bars
2
Vertical Bars
3
Medium Digits
4
Large Digits
3.3. Loading Custom
Dec 254 192 Bank
Characters
Hex
FE C0 Bank
Loads a bank of custom characters into memory for use. Must be issued before using a bank of characters.
Alternatively, an appropriate initialize command can be used.
Bank 1 byte, memory bank ID, value between 0 and 4
24
3.4. Save Start Up Screen Dec 254 194 ID Data
Custom Characters Hex
FE C2 ID Data
Saves a custom character to memory for the start up screen or repeated use. Start up characters are displayed by
sending their ID to the screen.
ID
1 byte, value between 0 and 7
Data 8 bytes, character pixel data, see custom character example
3.5. Initialize Medium
Number
Dec
254 109
Hex
FE 6D
ASCII
■m
Loads the medium number custom character bank into memory. Medium numbers must be initialized before use.
3.6. Place Medium
Numbers
Dec
254 111 Row Column Digit
Hex
FE 6F Row Column Digit
ASCII
■ o Row Column Digit
Places a single medium decimal digit of 2 row height and 1 column width on the display at the position specified.
Medium numbers must be initialized before being placed.
Row
1 byte, value between 1 and 20
Column 1 byte, value between 1 and 4
Digit
1 byte, single decimal digit to display
3.7. Initialize Large
Numbers
Dec
254 110
Hex
FE 6E
ASCII
■n
Loads the large number custom character bank into memory. Large numbers must be initialized before use.
3.8. Place Large
Number
Dec
254 35 Column Digit
Hex
FE 23 Column Digit
ASCII
■ # Column Digit
Places a single large decimal digit, 4 rows in height and 3 columns in width, on the display at the position specified.
Medium numbers must be initialized before being placed.
Column
1 byte, value between 1 and 20
Digit
1 byte, single decimal digit to display
3.9. Initialize
Horizontal Bar
Dec
254 104
Hex
FE 68
ASCII
■h
Loads the horizontal bar graph custom character bank into memory. Horizontal bar characters must be initialized
before a graph is displayed.
25
3.10. Place Horizontal Dec
254 124 Column Row Direction Length
Bar Graph
Hex
FE 7C Column Row Direction Length
Places a horizontal bar graph on the screen beginning at the column and row specified. The bar extends either
right or left to the length indicated. New bars will overwrite old.
Column
1 byte, value between 1 and 20
Row
1 byte, value between 1 and 4
Direction 1 byte, 0 for right and 1 for left
Length
1 byte, length in pixels of the graph, value between 0 and 100
3.11. Initialize Narrow
Vertical Bar
Dec
254 115
Hex
FE 73
ASCII
■s
Loads the narrow horizontal bar graph custom character bank into memory. A narrow bar is 2 pixels wide.
Horizontal bar characters must be initialized before a graph is displayed.
3.12. Initialize
Dec
254 118
Wide
Hex
FE 76
Vertical Bar
ASCII
■v
Loads the wide horizontal bar graph custom character bank into memory. A wide bar is 5 pixels wide. Horizontal
bar characters must be initialized before a graph is displayed.
3.13. Place Vertical
Bar
Dec
254 61 Column Length
Hex
FE 3D Column Length
ASCII
■ = Column Length
Places a vertical bar graph on the screen extending from the first row of the column specified. The bar extends
upwards to the length indicated. A new bar will over write the old.
Column 1 byte, value between 1 and 20
Length
1 byte, height in pixels of the graph, value between 0 and 32
4. General Purpose Output
4.1. General Purpose
Output Off
Dec
254 86 Number
Hex
FE 56 Number
ASCII
■ V Number
Turns the specified GPO off, sinking current to an output of zero volts.
Number 1 byte, GPO to be turned off, value between 1 and 6
4.2. General Purpose
Output On
Dec
254 87 Number
Hex
FE 57 Number
ASCII
■ W Number
Turns the specified GPO on, sourcing current from an output of five volts.
Number 1 byte, GPO to be turned on, value between 1 and 6
26
4.3. Set Start Up Dec 254 195 Number State
GPO State Hex
FE C3 Number State
Sets and saves the start up state of the specified GPO in non volatile memory. Changes will be seen on start up.
Number 1 byte, GPO to be controlled, value between 1 and 6
State
1 byte, 1 for on or 0 for off
5. Dallas One-Wire
5.1. Search for a One-Wire Dec 254 200 2
Device
Hex
FE C8 02
Sends a search query to each of the up to 32 devices on the one wire bus. Any connected device will respond with
an identification packet.
Response 14 bytes, identification packet as shown below
Table 23: Dallas One-Wire Packet Information
Offset
0
2
Length
2
1
3
4
5
13
1
1
8
1
Value
9002
138
10
49
0
0
Description
Preamble
Another device packet will follow OR
Last device packet
Packet Type
Error Code (0 indicates success)
Device Address
CRC8 address check (0 indicates validity)
5.2. Dallas One-Wire Dec 254 200 1 Flags Send Bits Receive Bits Data
Transaction
Hex
FE C8 01 Flags Send Bits Receive Bits Data
Performs a single Dallas 1-Wire transaction. Consult your device documentation for information regarding device
specific protocols. If an error is encountered, a corresponding value will be returned by the device.
Flags
1 byte, flags for transaction, see below
Send Bits
1 byte, number of bytes to be sent to the device
Receive Bits
1 byte, number of bytes expected to be received from the device
Data
Variable, data to be transmitted LSB to MSB
Table 24: Dallas One-Wire Flag Table
Bit
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
27
Flag Description
Unused
0 (Future Compatibility)
Add CRC8 to transaction
0 (Future Compatibility)
Read CRC8 from transaction
Reset Bus prior to transaction
Table 25: Dallas One-Wire Error Table
Code
0
1
2
3
Error Description
Success
Unknown Command
No Devices Found
Fatal Search Error
6. Keypad
6.1. Auto Transmit
Key Presses On
Dec
254 65
Hex
FE 41
ASCII
■A
Key presses are automatically sent to the host when received by the display. Default is Auto Transmit on.
6.2. Auto Transmit
Key Presses Off
Dec
254 79
Hex
FE 4F
ASCII
■O
Key presses are held in the 10 key buffer to be polled by the host using the Poll Key Press command. Use this
mode for I2C transactions. Default is Auto Transmit on.
6.3. Poll Key
Press
Dec
254 38
Hex
FE 26
ASCII
■&
Reads the last unread key press from the 10 key display buffer. If another key is stored in the buffer the MSB will
be 1, the MSB will be 0 when the last key press is read. If there are no stored key presses a value of 0 will be
returned. Auto transmit key presses must be turned off for this command to be successful.
Response 1 byte, value of key pressed (MSB determines additional keys to be read)
6.4. Clear Key
Buffer
Dec
254 69
Hex
FE 45
ASCII
■E
Clears all key presses from the key buffer.
6.5. Set Debounce
Time
Dec
254 85 Time
Hex
FE 55 Time
ASCII
■ U Time
Sets the time between a key press and a key read by the display. Most switches will bounce when pressed; the
debounce time allows the switch to settle for an accurate read. Default is 8 representing a debounce time of
approximately 52ms.
Time 1 byte, debounce increment (debounce time = Time * 6.554ms)
6.6. Set Auto Repeat Dec 254 126 Mode
Mode
Hex
FE 7E Mode
Sets key press repeat mode to typematic or hold. In typematic mode if a key press is held, the key value is
transmitted immediately, then 5 times a second after a 1 second delay. In hold mode, the key down value is
transmitted once when pressed, and then the key up value is sent when the key is released. Default is typematic.
Mode 1 byte, 1 for hold mode or 0 for typematic
28
6.7. Auto Repeat Dec 254 96
Mode Off
Hex
FE 60
Turns auto repeat mode off. Default is on (typematic).
6.8. Assign Keypad Dec 254 213 Key Down Key Up
Codes
Hex
FE D5 Key Down Key Up
Assigns the key down and key up values sent to the host when a key press is detected. A key up and key down
value must be sent for every key, a value of 255 will leave the key unaltered. Defaults are shown below.
Key Down 25 bytes, key down values
Key Up
25 bytes, key up values
Table 26: Default Key Down Values
A(65)
F(70)
K(75)
P(80)
U(85)
B(66)
G(71)
L(76)
Q(81)
V(86)
Key Down
C(67) D(68)
H(72) I(73)
M(77) N(78)
R(82) S(83)
W(87) X(88)
E(69)
J(74)
O(79)
T(84)
Y(89)
Table 27: Default Key Up Values
a(97)
f(102)
k(107)
p(112)
u(117)
b(98)
g(103)
l(108)
q(113)
v(118)
Key Up
c(99)
h(104)
m(109)
r(114)
w(119)
d(100)
i(105)
n(110)
s(115)
x(120)
e(101)
j(106)
o(111)
t(116)
y(121)
6.9. Set Typematic
Delay
Dec
254 159 Delay
Hex
FE 9F Delay
ASCII
■ ƒ Delay
Sets the delay between the first key press and first typematic report when a key is held in typematic mode.
Delay
Time key must be held to trigger typematic reports, specified in 100ms, default is 10 (1s).
6.10. Set Typematic
Interval
Dec
254 158 Interval
Hex
FE 9E Interval
ASCII
■ ₧ Interval
Sets the interval between reported key presses when a key is held and the display is in typematic mode.
Interval
Time between key reports, specified in 100ms increments, default is 2 (200ms).
7. Display Functions
7.1. Display On
Dec
254 66 Minutes
Hex
FE 42 Minutes
ASCII
■ B Minutes
Turns the display backlight on for a specified length of time. If an inverse display color is used this command will
essentially turn on the text.
Minutes 1 byte, number of minutes to leave backlight on, a value of 0 leaves the display on indefinitely
29
7.2. Display Off
Dec
254 70
Hex
FE 46
ASCII
■F
Turns the display backlight off. If an inverse display colour is used this command will turn off the text.
7.3. Set VFD
Brightness
Dec
254 89 Brightness
Hex
FE 59 Brightness
ASCII
■ Y Brightness
Immediately sets the text brightness. Default is 0.
Brightness
1 byte, brightness level from 3(Dim) to 0(Bright)
7.4. Set and Save VFD Dec 254 145 Brightness
Brightness
Hex
FE 91 Brightness
Immediately sets and saves the text brightness. Although brightness can be changed using the set command, it is
reset to the saved value on start up. Default is 0.
Brightness
1 byte, brightness level from 3(Dim) to 0(Bright)
8. Data Security
8.1. Set Remember
Dec 254 147 Switch
Hex
FE 93 Switch
Allows changes to specific settings to be saved to the display memory. Writing to non-volatile memory can be slow
and each change consumes 1 write of approximately 100,000 available. The Command Summary outlines which
commands are saved always, never, and when this command is on only. Remember is off by default.
Switch 1 byte, 1 for on or 0 for off
8.2. Set Data Lock
Dec 254 202 245 160 Level
Hex
FE CA F5 A0 Level
Temporarily locks certain aspects of the display to ensure no inadvertent changes are made. The lock is released
after a power cycle. A new level overrides the old, and levels can be combined. Default is 0.
Level 1 byte, each bit representing a level, see Table 28
Table 28: Data Lock Bits
Display
7
Command
6
Reserved
5
Setting
4
Address
3
Reserved
2
Reserved
1
Reserved
0
Table 29: Lock Parameters
Reserved
Address
Setting
Command
Display
Place holders only, should be 0
2
Locks the Baud Rate and I C address
Locks all settings from being saved
Locks all commands, text can still be written
Locks entire display, no new text can be displayed
30
8.3. Set and Save
Dec 254 203 245 160 Level
Data Lock
Hex
FE CB F5 A0 Level
Locks certain aspects of the display to ensure no inadvertent changes are made. The lock is not affected by a
power cycle. A new level overrides the old, and levels can be combined. Default is 0.
Level 1 byte, see data lock table
9. Miscellaneous
9.1. Write Customer
Data
Dec
254 52 Data
Hex
FE 34 Data
ASCII
■ 4 Data
Saves a user defined block of data to non-volatile memory. Useful for storing display information for later use.
Data 16 bytes, user defined data
9.2. Read
Dec
254 53
Customer
Hex
FE 35
Data
ASCII
■5
Reads data previously written to non-volatile memory. Data is only changed when written, surviving power cycles.
Response
16 bytes, previously saved user defined data
9.3. Read Version
Number
Dec
254 54
Hex
FE 36
ASCII
■6
Causes display to respond with its firmware version number.
Response
1 byte, convert to hexadecimal to view major and minor revision numbers
9.4. Read Module
Type
Dec
254 55
Hex
FE 37
ASCII
■7
Causes display to respond with its module number.
Response 1 byte, module number, see partial list below
Table 30: Sample Module Type Responses
15
88
90
31
VK204-25
VK204-25-USB
VK204-25-422
Appendix
Command Summary
Available commands below include identifying number, required parameters, the returned response and
an indication of whether the setting is remembered always, never, or with remember set to on.
Table 31: Communication Command Summary
Name
Changing the I2C Slave Address
Changing the Baud Rate
Set a Non-Standard Baud Rate
Transmission Protocol Select
Dec
51
57
164
160
Hex
33
39
A4
A0
ASCII
3
9
ñ
á
Parameters
Address
BaudRate
Speed
Protocol
Response
None
None
None
None
Remembered
Always
Always
Always
Remember On
Table 32: Text Command Summary
Name
Auto Scroll On
Auto Scroll Off
Clear Screen
Changing the Start Up Screen
Set Auto Line Wrap On
Set Auto Line Wrap Off
Set Cursor Position
Go Home
Move Cursor Back
Move Cursor Forward
Underline Cursor On
Underline Cursor Off
Blinking Block Cursor On
Blinking Block Cursor Off
Dec
81
82
88
64
67
68
71
72
76
77
74
75
83
84
Hex
51
52
58
40
43
44
47
48
4C
4D
4A
4B
53
54
ASCII
Q
R
X
@
C
D
G
H
L
M
J
K
S
T
Parameters
None
None
None
Characters [80]
None
None
Col, Row
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
Response
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
Remembered
Remember On
Remember On
Never
Always
Remember On
Remember On
Never
Never
Never
Never
Remember On
Remember On
Remember On
Remember On
Table 33: Special Character Command Summary
Name
Creating a Custom Character
Saving Custom Characters
Loading Custom Characters
Save Start Up Screen Custom Characters
Initialize Medium Number
Place Medium Numbers
Initialize Large Numbers
Place Large Number
Initialize Horizontal Bar
Dec
78
193
192
194
109
111
110
35
104
Hex
4E
C1
C0
C2
6D
6F
6E
23
68
ASCII
N
┴
└
┬
m
o
n
#
h
Place Horizontal Bar Graph
124
7C
|
Initialize Narrow Vertical Bar
Initialize Wide Vertical Bar
Place Vertical Bar
115
118
61
73
76
3D
s
v
=
Parameters
ID, Data [8]
Bank, ID, Data [8]
Bank
ID, Data [8]
None
Row, Col, Digit
None
Col, Digit
None
Col, Row, Dir,
Length
None
None
Col, Length
Response
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
Remembered
Remember On
Always
Never
Always
Never
Never
Never
Never
Never
None
Never
None
None
None
Never
Never
Never
32
Table 34: General Purpose Output Command Summary
Name
General Purpose Output Off
General Purpose Output On
Set Start Up GPO State
Dec
86
87
195
Hex
56
57
C3
ASCII
V
W
├
Parameters
Number
Number
Number, State
Response
None
None
None
Remembered
Never
Never
Always
Table 35: Dallas One-Wire Command Summary
Name
Search for a One-Wire Device
Dallas One-Wire Transaction
Dec
200, 2
200, 1
Hex
C8, 02
C8, 01
ASCII
╚, ☻
╚, ☺
Parameters
None
Flags, Send, Receive, Data []
Response
Data [14]
Data []
Remembered
Never
Never
Table 36: Keypad Command Summary
Name
Auto Transmit Key Presses On
Auto Transmit Key Presses Off
Poll Key Press
Clear Key Buffer
Set Debounce Time
Set Auto Repeat Mode
Auto Repeat Mode Off
Assign Keypad Codes
Set Typematic Delay
Set Typematic Interval
Dec
65
79
38
69
85
126
96
213
159
158
Hex
41
4F
26
45
55
7E
60
D5
9F
9E
ASCII
A
O
&
E
U
~
`
╒
ƒ
₧
Parameters
None
None
None
None
Time
Mode
None
KeyUp [25], KeyDown [25]
Delay
Delay
Response
None
None
KeyPress
None
None
None
None
None
None
None
Remembered
Remember On
Remember On
Never
Never
Remember On
Remember On
Remember On
Always
Remember On
Remember On
Table 37: Display Functions Command Summary
Name
Display On
Display Off
Set VFD Brightness
Set and Save VFD Brightness
Dec
66
70
89
145
Hex
42
46
59
91
ASCII
B
F
Y
æ
Parameters
Minutes
None
Brightness
Brightness
Response
None
None
None
None
Remembered
Remember On
Remember On
Remember On
Always
Table 38: Data Security Command Summary
Name
Set Remember
Set Data Lock
Set and Save Data Lock
Dec
147
202, 245, 160
203, 245, 160
Hex
93
CA, F5, A0
CB, F5, A0
ASCII
ô
╩, ⌡, á
╦, ⌡, á
Parameters
Switch
Level
Level
Response
None
None
None
Remembered
Always
Remember On
Always
Table 39: Miscellaneous Command Summary
Name
Write Customer Data
Read Customer Data
Read Version Number
Read Module Type
33
Dec
52
53
54
55
Hex
34
35
36
37
ASCII
4
5
6
7
Parameters
Data [16]
None
None
None
Response
None
Data [16]
Version
Module
Remembered
Always
Never
Never
Never
Character Sets
Figure 20: Japanese Character Set
34
Block Diagram
Figure 21: Functional Diagram
Environmental Specifications
Table 40: Environmental Limits
Operating Temperature
Storage Temperature
Operating Relative Humidity
Thermal Shock
35
VFD Standard VFD Extended (-E)
-20°C to +70°C
-40°C to +85°C
-40°C to +85°C
-50°C to +85°C
Maximum 80% non-condensing
Maximum 10°C/min
Electrical Tolerances
Current Consumption
Table 41: Current Consumption
Board
40mA
+
Backlight
150 mA
+
GPOs
20mA each maximum
Table 42: Backlight Current Draw
VFD
150mA
Input Voltage Specifications
Table 43: Voltage Specifications
Standard*
4.75-5.25V
Wide Voltage (-V)*
9.0-15.0V
Extended Wide Voltage (-VPT)
9.0-35.0V
*Note: Standard and Wide Voltage variants of the RS422 model should be powered from a local source only.
Optical Characteristics
Table 44: Display Optics
Module Size
Viewing Area
Active Area
Character Size
Character Pitch
Pixel Size
Pixel Pitch
Backlight Half-Life
98.00 x 60.00 x 30.5
70.8 x 20.9
N/A
2.40 x 4.70
3.60 x 5.40
0.40 x 0.50
0.50 x 0.70
350
N/A
mm
mm
mm
mm
mm
mm
mm
2
cd/m
Hours
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Dimensional Drawings
Figure 22: VK204-25 Dimensional Drawing
Figure 23: VK204-25-USB Dimensional Drawing
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Figure 24: VK204-25-422 Dimensional Drawing
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Ordering
Part Numbering Scheme
Table 45: Part Numbering Scheme
VK
1
-204
2
-25
3
4
-VPT
5
-422
6
-E
7
Options
Table 46: Display Options
#
Designator
1
Product Type
2
3
4
Display Size
Keypad Size
Colour
5
Voltage
6
Protocol
7
Temperature
Options
LK: Liquid Crystal Display with Keypad Input
OK: Organic Light Emitting Display with Keypad Input.
VK: Vacuum Florescent Display with Keypad Input
-204: 20 columns by 4 rows
-25: 25 key maximum
NP: Standard (No filter for VFD)
NP: Standard Voltage
-V: Wide Voltage
-VPT: Wide Voltage with Efficient Switching Power Supply
NP: Standard Model
-USB: USB Only Model
-422: RS422 Only Model*
NP: Standard
-E: Extended Temperature
*Note: The RS422 model should only be powered from a local source, unless the –VPT variant is used.
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Accessories
Power
Table 47: Power Accessories
PCS
Standard Power Cable
Communication
Table 48: Communication Accessories
CSS4FT
4 ft. Serial Cable
EXTMUSB3FT
Mini-USB Cable
INTMUSB3FT
Internal Mini-USB Cable
SCCPC5V
Serial Communication/5V Power
Cable
BBC
Breadboard Cable
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Peripherals
Table 49: Peripheral Accessories
KPP4x4
16 Button Keypad
KPP204A-XX*
15 Button Keypad Overlay
Temperature Probe
Dallas One-Wire Temperature Probe
Mounting
Table 50: Mounting Accessories
B2041-XX**
Mounting Bracket with Coloured
Overlay
B204A-XX*
Mounting Bracket with Keyed
Overlay
MK2041-XX**
Coloured Overlay with Drill Guide
Note*: Keyed overlays are available in Black Vinyl (-BK) and Beige Vinyl (no part extension).
Note**: Non-keyed overlays are available in Black Vinyl (-BK), Black Brushed Aluminum (-BL), Silver Brushed
Aluminum (-AL), and Beige Vinyl (no part extension).
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Definitions
ASCII: American standard code for information interchange used to give standardized numeric codes
to alphanumeric characters.
BPS:
Bits per second, a measure of transmission speed.
DOW: Dallas One-Wire protocol, similar to I2C, provides reduced data rates at a greater distance. One
wire carries data, while two others supply power and ground. Matrix Orbital tests non-parasitic devices
only, those that do not draw power from the data line; however, some parasitic devices may work.
FFSTN: Double film super-twisted nematic in reference to an LCD. The addition of two layers of film
between the STN display and polarizer improves contrast.
GPO:
General purpose output, used to control peripheral devices from a display.
GUI:
Graphical user interface.
Hexadecimal:
A base 16 number system utilizing symbols 0 through F to represent the values 0-15.
I2C:
Inter-integrated circuit protocol uses clock and data lines to communicate short distances at
slow speeds from a master to up to 128 addressable slave devices. A display is a slave device.
LSB:
Least significant bit or byte in a transmission, the rightmost when read.
MSB:
Most significant bit or byte in a transmission, the leftmost when read.
RS232: Recommended standard 232, a common serial protocol. A low level is -30V, a high is +30V.
RS422: Recommended standard 422, a more robust differential pair serial protocol.
SDA:
Serial data line used to transfer data in I2C protocol. This open drain line should be pulled high
through a resistor. Nominal values are between 1K and 10K Ω.
SCL:
Serial clock line used to designate data bits in I2C protocol. This open drain line should be pulled
high through a resistor. Nominal values are between 1K and 10K Ω.
STN: Super-twisted nematic in reference to an LCD. In a relaxed or nematic state, crystals orientate
themselves in the same direction and pass light. In an excited state these crystals align to block light.
Super-twisted crystals move from 180 to 270 degrees between to increase contrast over TN models.
TTL:
Transistor-transistor logic applied to serial protocol. Low level is 0V while high logic is 5V.
Contact
Sales
Support
Online
Phone: 403.229.2737
Phone: 403.204.3750
Purchasing: www.matrixorbital.com
Email: sales@matrixorbital.ca Email: support@matrixorbital.ca Support: www.matrixorbital.ca
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