Detailed Product Description:
The 20x4 LCD Display Module is a fundamental component for any electronics project that requires clear and comprehensive visual output. With the capacity to display 20 characters across 4 distinct lines, this module provides ample space for showing sensor data, status messages, or creating a user-friendly menu system for your embedded device. Its most significant feature is the built-in controller, such as the industry-standard HD44780, which simplifies the process of sending data from your microcontroller to the display.
While older versions of this display required a complicated parallel interface that could consume up to 11 I/O pins, modern modules are commonly equipped with a pre-soldered I2C adapter board. This technical advancement is a game-changer, as it reduces the required connections to a mere four pins (VCC, GND, SDA, and SCL), saving valuable I/O resources on your microcontroller. This makes the I2C LCD display an ideal choice for compact projects and complex builds that require multiple sensors and actuators.
Operating on a standard 5V DC power supply, this display is compatible with popular development boards like Arduino and Raspberry Pi. Many models also include a high-contrast LED backlight—typically in blue or yellow-green—to ensure readability in various lighting conditions. An adjustable potentiometer on the back of the I2C adapter allows you to fine-tune the display contrast for perfect visibility. Whether you are building a weather station, a security system, or a custom device with a user interface, this 20x4 character display provides a professional and effective solution for all your DIY electronics and prototyping needs.
The 20x4 Character LCD Module is a versatile alphanumeric display that allows developers and hobbyists to show up to 80 characters (20 characters per line × 4 lines). Powered by the popular HD44780 controller, it is fully supported by the Arduino LiquidCrystal library.
This display is ideal for user interfaces, IoT devices, temperature monitors, voltmeters, and electronic project displays. With a backlight and contrast adjustment feature, it is easily readable in various lighting conditions.
It can also be used with an I2C module (sold separately) to reduce required pins from 16 to just 2.
Key Features:
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20 characters x 4 lines LCD display (20x4 LCD)
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Built-in HD44780-compatible controller
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5V operating voltage, easy to interface
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Can be used in Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and ESP32 projects
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Compatible with I2C adapter (optional) for fewer wiring pins
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Perfect for menu systems, sensor data displays, clocks, and counters
Technical Specifications:
Specification |
Details |
Display Type |
Alphanumeric LCD |
Characters |
20 per line × 4 lines (total 80 characters) |
Controller |
HD44780 or equivalent |
Operating Voltage |
5V DC |
Interface |
Parallel (16-pin header) |
Backlight |
LED (usually yellow-green or blue) |
Contrast Control |
Via external potentiometer (pin 3 - Vo) |
Dimensions |
Approx. 98mm x 60mm x 14mm |
Character Size |
~4.84 x 8.06 mm |
Mounting Holes |
Yes |
How to Use with Arduino:
Wiring (Without I2C Adapter):
LCD Pin |
Function |
Arduino Pin |
1 (VSS) |
Ground |
GND |
2 (VDD) |
+5V |
5V |
3 (V0) |
Contrast |
Potentiometer |
4 (RS) |
Register Select |
D12 |
5 (RW) |
Read/Write |
GND |
6 (E) |
Enable |
D11 |
11–14 |
D4–D7 Data Pins |
D5–D2 |
15/16 |
Backlight +/- |
5V / GND |
Arduino Code (Parallel Example):
#include
LiquidCrystal lcd(12, 11, 5, 4, 3, 2);
void setup() {
lcd.begin(20, 4); // Initialize 20x4 LCD
lcd.print("Hello, World!");
}
void loop() {
// Your code here
}
Applications:
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Arduino & microcontroller display interfaces
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Sensor data output (temperature, humidity, voltage)
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Clocks, timers, and counters
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Robotics control panels
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Home automation displays
Package Includes: