How To Choose A Tft Lcd Display Module?

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● Understanding TFT LCD Technology

● Key Considerations When Choosing a TFT LCD Display Module

>> 1. Size

>> 2. Resolution

>> 3. Brightness

>> 4. Viewing Angle

>> 5. Contrast Ratio

>> 6. Touchscreen Capability

>> 7. Temperature Range

>> 8. Interface Compatibility

>> 9. Durability and Reliability

● Practical Steps in Selecting a TFT LCD Display Module

● Conclusion

● Related Questions

>> 1. What is the difference between TN and IPS displays?

>> 2. How does brightness affect display performance?

>> 3. Can I use a TFT LCD without a touchscreen?

>> 4. What factors influence power consumption in TFT LCDs?

>> 5. How do I connect a TFT LCD module to an Arduino?

Choosing the right TFT LCD display module for your project can be a daunting task, given the vast array of options available in the market. TFT (Thin Film Transistor) LCDs are widely used in various applications, from consumer electronics to industrial devices, due to their superior image quality and responsiveness. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider when selecting a TFT LCD display module, ensuring that you make an informed decision tailored to your specific needs.

Understanding TFT LCD Technology

Before diving into the selection process, it's crucial to understand what a TFT LCD is and how it works. A TFT LCD consists of several key components:

- TFT Array Substrate: This is where the thin-film transistors are located, allowing for individual pixel control.

- Color Filter Substrate: This layer adds color to the display by using red, green, and blue filters.

- Liquid Crystal Layer: This layer manipulates light to create images.

- Backlight Unit: Provides illumination for the display.

- Driver ICs: Control the display's operations and manage signals.

The combination of these components allows for high-quality image reproduction with vibrant colors and sharp details. Understanding these components helps in appreciating why certain specifications matter more than others depending on your application.

Key Considerations When Choosing a TFT LCD Display Module

When selecting a TFT LCD module, consider the following factors:

1. Size

The size of the display is one of the first considerations. You need to determine both the outline dimensions (width, height, thickness) and the active area (the part of the screen that displays content). Common sizes range from 1.0” to 32” depending on your application needs.

For instance, smaller displays are often used in handheld devices like smartphones or portable gaming consoles, while larger displays are favored in televisions and monitors. The physical space available in your device design may also limit your options.

For more custom lcd display manufacturerinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

2. Resolution

Resolution significantly impacts the clarity and sharpness of displayed images. Higher resolutions provide better detail, which is essential for applications requiring fine visuals. For instance, a resolution of x (Full HD) is suitable for most consumer electronics, while 4K resolutions (x) are becoming standard in high-end displays.

Additionally, consider pixel density (measured in pixels per inch or PPI). A higher PPI means more pixels are packed into each inch of screen space, resulting in sharper images. This is particularly important for applications such as medical imaging or graphic design where detail is paramount.

3. Brightness

Brightness is crucial for readability in various lighting conditions. Displays with higher brightness levels (measured in nits) are necessary for outdoor applications where sunlight can wash out images. Standard brightness levels range from 200 nits for indoor displays to over nits for sunlight-readable screens.

It's also important to consider how brightness affects power consumption; higher brightness typically leads to increased energy usage. Therefore, balancing brightness requirements with power efficiency is essential, especially for battery-operated devices.

4. Viewing Angle

The viewing angle determines how well the display can be seen from different perspectives. TN (Twisted Nematic) panels typically have limited viewing angles, while IPS (In-Plane Switching) panels offer wider angles, making them more suitable for applications where multiple viewers may be present.

For example, if you're designing a digital signage solution that will be viewed from various angles by passersby, an IPS panel would be preferable due to its superior viewing angles and color consistency across different perspectives.

5. Contrast Ratio

Contrast ratio affects how well images stand out against their background. A higher contrast ratio means deeper blacks and brighter whites, enhancing overall image quality. For example, IPS displays generally have higher contrast ratios compared to TN displays.

A good contrast ratio is particularly important for media applications where color accuracy and vibrancy are critical. In contrast-sensitive environments like photography or video editing studios, choosing a display with a high contrast ratio can make a significant difference in visual output quality.

6. Touchscreen Capability

If your application requires user interaction, consider whether you need a touchscreen feature. Capacitive touchscreens offer better responsiveness and multi-touch capabilities than resistive touchscreens but may be more expensive.

Touchscreen technology has evolved significantly; modern capacitive screens can support gestures like pinch-to-zoom and swiping motions that enhance user experience in applications ranging from smartphones to interactive kiosks.

7. Temperature Range

For industrial or outdoor applications, ensure that the display can operate effectively within specific temperature ranges. Some modules are designed to function in extreme temperatures (-30°C to +80°C), while others may only work within standard ranges (-20°C to +70°C).

Understanding the operating environment is crucial as extreme temperatures can affect not only performance but also longevity. Displays subjected to harsh conditions may require additional protective measures such as enclosures or specialized coatings.

8. Interface Compatibility

Different TFT LCD modules come with various interfaces such as HDMI, LVDS, MIPI, SPI, and parallel MCU connections. Ensure that the chosen module is compatible with your system's requirements and can handle data transfer efficiently.

Compatibility extends beyond just physical connections; it also includes software support. Ensure that libraries and drivers are available for your chosen interface to facilitate integration into your project seamlessly.

9. Durability and Reliability

If your application involves harsh environments or frequent use, opt for displays that are ruggedized or have protective coatings to withstand wear and tear. Consider features like anti-glare treatments or hardened glass surfaces that can resist scratches and impacts.

Reliability also involves assessing manufacturer warranties and support services; reputable manufacturers often provide extended warranties on their products which can be indicative of their confidence in durability.

Practical Steps in Selecting a TFT LCD Display Module

1. Define Your Application: Clearly outline what you need the display for—whether it's for a smartphone, industrial equipment, or digital signage.

2. Assess Your Environment: Determine whether the display will be used indoors or outdoors and consider factors like temperature fluctuations and exposure to moisture.

3. Compare Specifications: Use comparison charts or tables from suppliers to evaluate different models based on size, resolution, brightness, contrast ratio, and other specifications.

4. Request Samples: If possible, obtain samples from manufacturers to test in your specific application before making a bulk purchase.

5. Check Reviews and Support: Research supplier reputations through customer reviews and ensure they offer good after-sales support and warranty options.

6. Evaluate Cost vs Performance: While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option available, consider long-term costs associated with performance issues or failures that could arise from lower-quality components.

7. Stay Updated on Trends: The technology behind TFT LCDs continues to evolve rapidly; keeping abreast of new developments can help you make better-informed decisions about which technologies might benefit your projects moving forward.

Conclusion

Choosing the right TFT LCD display module involves careful consideration of several factors including size, resolution, brightness, viewing angle, touchscreen capability, temperature range, interface compatibility, durability, and reliability. By thoroughly assessing these aspects based on your specific needs and application requirements, you can confidently select a module that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.

Related Questions

1. What is the difference between TN and IPS displays?

TN (Twisted Nematic) displays are generally cheaper but have limited viewing angles and lower color accuracy compared to IPS (In-Plane Switching) displays which offer wider viewing angles and better color reproduction but at a higher cost.

2. How does brightness affect display performance?

Higher brightness levels improve visibility under bright lighting conditions such as sunlight; however, they can also lead to increased power consumption.

3. Can I use a TFT LCD without a touchscreen?

Yes, many applications do not require touch functionality; standard non-touch TFT LCDs are available for such uses.

4. What factors influence power consumption in TFT LCDs?

Power consumption is influenced by backlight brightness settings, display resolution and refresh rates, color depth being displayed, and efficiency of driver ICs used in the module.

5. How do I connect a TFT LCD module to an Arduino?

You can connect a TFT LCD module using SPI or parallel interfaces depending on your specific model; libraries like Adafruit_ILI or MCUFRIEND can facilitate this connection with sample codes available online.

This comprehensive guide should serve as a valuable resource in your journey towards selecting the ideal TFT LCD display module for your project needs!

Are you interested in learning more about capacitive touch display? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

E-HP

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I'm working on the section of my NEWB FAQ regarding displays. As far as compatibility is concerned, the general guidance is to purchase a controller and display together to ensure compatibility, and if purchasing separately, purchasing the same brand may provide a better chance of compatibility. What I'm trying to identify are the display only manufacturers, rather than the companies to manufacture both. It seems like both the XLD and LithiumBattery controllers use third party displays, and share some of the same models. I know companies like King Meter make displays for other controller manufacturers, but are there others? In general, I'm trying to beef up the section a little, so any info would be helpful. I'd like to also add some stuff on displays that support open source firmware, and links to the firmware on ES.


Displays: Displays from different brands are not usually compatible. Displays that are the same brand as a controller don't guaranty compatibility, due to firmware variations, so purchasing the controller with the display will provide better assurance of compatibility. Some display manufacturers can support different controller brands, provided they are flashed with compatible firmware.

(work in progress)
Some common displays and associated controller manufacturer (actual compatibility may be dictated by firmware):
SW900, S700, S800, S866, S886 S890, S900 GD06, OMT-M3 - DC MOTO CONTROLLERBYLITHIUMBATTERY
KD21C, KD51C, KD59E, KD716, KD718 - Lishui
S866, S886, M5, M6T, LH100 - XLD (XunLiDa Electronics) BrainPower
LCD3, LCD4, LCD5, LCD7, LCD8, LCD8H, LCD9R, LCD10, LED880 - Kunteng

mindgames11

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• #2

I'd also like to know what the major upstream suppliers for the no-name (or might as well be no-named) chinese labeled, ephemeral products.
the lack of compatibility is kinda ironic considering that there's no real innovation from the sellers, they're just buying off the shelf stuff, slapping it together and adding their label (of course don't bother to use even a computer english translation of ANYTHING).
I feel that in many of the compatibility cases, the reason for disharmony is small operations pushing out poorly thought out stuff- not plagiarizing enough or altering the copied design in goofy ways to make it marginally "theirs" .

stancecoke

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• #3

but are there others

It might be better to sort it by the used bus system and protocol.
The most common is the UART KM5S protocol these days, I think. Many display manufacturers offer it for their products. KeyDisplay, Kingmeter, Focan, Bigstone, ......
Lishui and JYTCon (in Himiway bikes) often use this protocol.
Bigstone has it's own protocol, too. It is used in the "DAS Kit" series with Lishui controllers on LeonCycle (Leisger) bikes.

Bafang has switched to CAN bus.

regards
stancecoke Last edited: Dec 31,

E-HP

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It might be better to sort it by the used bus system and protocol.
The most common is the UART KM5S protocol these days, I think. Many display manufacturers offer it for their products. KeyDisplay, Kingmeter, Focan, Bigstone, ......
Lishui and JYTCon (in Himiway bikes) often use this protocol.
Bigstone has it's own protocol, too. It is used in the "DAS Kit" series with Lishui controllers on LeonCycle (Leisger) bikes.

Bafang has switched to CAN bus.

regards
stancecoke

This might happen at a later stage. I haven't even started delving into the communication protocols yet. once I do, I may understand the reasoning a bit more.

E-HP

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Well since this thread resurfaced, here is the display section as it is currently. There are a lot out there. I’ve been adding the links to their manuals as I go along. any input is appreciated.
Communication protocols are a future addition, but probably linking to some relevant threads.

Displays:
Displays from different brands are not usually compatible. Displays that are the same brand as a controller don't guaranty compatibility, due to firmware variations, so purchasing the controller with the display will provide better assurance of compatibility. Some display manufacturers can support different controller brands, provided they are flashed with compatible firmware.

Common displays and associated controller manufacturer (actual compatibility may be dictated by firmware):
SW900, S700, S800, S830, S866, S886, S890, S900, GD06, OMT-M3 - DC MOTO CONTROLLERBYLITHIUMBATTERY/JN
SW900, C500B-LCD, KD21C, KD51C, KD59E, KD716, KD718 - Lishui
S866, S869, S886, M5, M6T, LH100 - XLD (XunLiDa Electronics) BrainPower
LCD3, LCD4, LCD5, LCD7, LCD8H, LCD8S, LCD9, LCD10H, LED880 - Kunteng "KT"
C961, 500C, 750C, 800S, 860C, DPC-07, DPC-18 - Bafang
Displays and/or Controllers supported by Open Source Firmware(custom/enhanced firmware developed by the user community):
Controllers -
KT controllers (certain models 0.25kW up to 5kW)
Lishui controllers (certain models)
Bafang BBS02, BBSHD mid drive internal controllers
Displays -
KT LCD3 used in conjunction with TSDZ2 mid drive
VLCD5-VLCD6-XH18, LCD3, 860C-850C-SW102 used in conjunction with TSDZ2 mid drive

CT-22 (speedometer, odometer, voltage, and status display)
Manual
Programming thread
Pinouts

Cycle Analyst, computer and dashboard:

Cycle Analysts - Ebike Parts - Shop​

The Cycle Analyst is much more than just an old-looking display and is the central control feature for most of our advanced kits. With some custom throttle wiring you can also use it (via the Stand Alone or High Current models) to...
ebikes.ca
Cycle Analyst 3.15b6 - Settings Summary

FrankG70

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This might happen at a later stage. I haven't even started delving into the communication protocols yet. once I do, I may understand the reasoning a bit more.

???????????? I have NÓ idea whát your saying

E-HP

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???????????? I have NÓ idea whát your saying

My reply was to stancecoke.

amberwolf

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this should be helpful to some people:
https://endless-sphere.com/sphere/t...at-en06-and-s866-displays./post-

I just received a coloured SW900 display from this AliExpress shop:

It's firmware is really switchable from No2 protocol to 5s protocol by parameter P20.

regards
stancecoke

E-HP

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this should be helpful to some people:
https://endless-sphere.com/sphere/t...at-en06-and-s866-displays./post-

Thanks. I dropped a footnote under the display section in my FAQ.

E-HP

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Requesting help from the brain trust, again. I'm still working on beefing up the controller info in my FAQ. I'm specifically looking for the manufacturer's website for these two controller brands:

XLD Brainpower -​ES thread​​JN (often labeled "DC MOTO CONTROLLER BY LITHIUM BATTERY" or "Brushless DC Motor Controller") -​
I've been searching, on and off, forever. The labels often have barcodes or scan codes on them, but those haven't provided any clues in the past to find their websites. For the JN controllers, if there's a decent ES thread, that would be helpful as well. Thanks!

OK, random question (basically identifying a controller by it's label):
I noticed that JN uses specific wording on the controller labels (two examples above), and always with the same all caps or caps with lower case. KT controllers label uses "Controller for brushless motor" (only Controller is capped). I was wondering how companies are registered or if these variations are licensed in some way. For KT, I use the model number to identify it as a KT controller, which is "KT" followed by the rated voltages (e.g. 36V/48V) and then the designation for trap or sine wave (ZW... or SVP...). Sometimes JN will have a model number, but usually that's just a bunch of numbers with no pattern. If "Brushless DC Motor Controller" was their licensed logo/name, then it would be a lot easier to spot a JN controller. Lishui has several variations in their labeling (and sometimes can be identified by the model number, if included (e.g. LSW...), but their newer models seem to have their name on the label.​

amberwolf

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XLD is Xunlida, don't know their home site URL (I'm sure it's not in english, though).

JN is...Hmm. I knew until I started to type it.


EDIT:, maybe useful

E-HP

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XLD is Xunlida, don't know their home site URL (I'm sure it's not in english, though).

JN is...Hmm. I knew until I started to type it.


EDIT:, maybe useful

Thanks, this was helpful. Seems like Xunlida is a parent company with several divisions. Seems like most are electronic related, although I saw one they make saw blades. I see many of them are registered with Dunn & Bradstreet, but I haven’t found anything as far as sites go, for the parent or the other divisions.
This article talks about how company names are requested and approved in China.

Chinese Company Names: How They Work | Acclime China

For foreign companies, choosing a Chinese name can significantly impact brand recognition, market perception and overall business success.

stancecoke

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Lishui has several variations in their labeling (and sometimes can be identified by the model number, if included (e.g. LSW...)

The number behind LSWxxxx is only the customer number, it says nothing about the technical specification. See the post of @mechaniker in the German forum:

LSW-675 Sinus Controller

Hmm.. ich hatte beide Controllertypen und die Controller vom Hersteller Lishui http://www.lsdzs.net (also die LSW-xxxx) die ich hatte (meist Sinus, Sensorlos) waren bei meinen Motoren (mein Bafang ruhiger im Lauf bzw. im Betriebsgeräusch. Das ist aber ungefähr 3 Jahre her, vielleicht ist der...
The code after the first number gives some clues, but no details are known....

regards
stancecoke

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• #14

Common displays and associated controller manufacturer (actual compatibility may be dictated by firmware):
SW900, S700, S800, S830, S866, S886, S890, S900, GD06, OMT-M3 - DC MOTO CONTROLLERBYLITHIUMBATTERY/JN
SW900, C500B-LCD, KD21C, KD51C, KD59E, KD716, KD718 - Lishui
S866, S869, S886, M5, M6T, LH100 - XLD (XunLiDa Electronics) BrainPower
LCD3, LCD4, LCD5, LCD7, LCD8H, LCD8S, LCD9, LCD10H, LED880 - Kunteng "KT"
C961, 500C, 750C, 800S, 860C, DPC-07, DPC-18 - Bafang

Nice collection of PDF files. Hope you have saved them in your computer in case links disappear. Wondering is there a way to upload PDF files to this forum so they don't get lost.

marvin78

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• #15

I see there are displays mentioned which should work on Tongshen. I think it would be nice if there was some more information like, which displays only work with default communication protocol ( stock displays and Enerprof should do this afaik ), and which one's need you to flash not just the controller but also the display ( SW102 / 850c / LCD3 or anything from Bafang / Kunteng ).

*You could say this is a personal request which might help me out with my dz41 rma process, as Enerprof is up till now just claiming their displays are not compatible with OSF I fear they might bring that up as reason to not fully reimburse me.

amberwolf

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Wondering is there a way to upload PDF files to this forum so they don't get lost.

Just attach them to your post.

E-HP

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Nice collection of PDF files. Hope you have saved them in your computer in case links disappear. Wondering is there a way to upload PDF files to this forum so they don't get lost.

Thanks. They are pretty easy to find, and where possible I used links from the manufacturer, or a retail ebike parts seller other than Ali express, to avoid the links going bad too quickly. I only added links because I was tired of looking them up.

marka-ee

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I just came across this thread. I'm especially interested in these generic looking controllers coming from China under various names or no name at all. I suspect that many of them share the same internal circuit board. Is there going to be any database or way to help identify these when people open them up and take a look at what's inside? Also of interest is some of these El Cheapo controllers from China do have features like regenerative braking, but you have to solder bridge something on the PC board.

E-HP

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• #19

I see there are displays mentioned which should work on Tongshen. I think it would be nice if there was some more information like, which displays only work with default communication protocol ( stock displays and Enerprof should do this afaik ), and which one's need you to flash not just the controller but also the display ( SW102 / 850c / LCD3 or anything from Bafang / Kunteng ).

*You could say this is a personal request which might help me out with my dz41 rma process, as Enerprof is up till now just claiming their displays are not compatible with OSF I fear they might bring that up as reason to not fully reimburse me.

I'm working on this slowly. I've been doing some reorganizing of the subsections to incorporate some odds and ends lately. Basically I've added links to the easy self contained open source threads, either within the Display and Display Resources section, or the Controller and Controller Resources section. I've been avoiding creating a separate section for now.

Displays and/or Controllers supported by Open Source Firmware (custom/enhanced firmware developed by the user community):​Controllers (additional information provided below, in the controller section) -​Displays -​KT LCD3 used in conjunction with TSDZ2 mid drive*​VLCD5, VLCD6, XH18, LCD3, 860C, 850C, SW102 used in conjunction with TSDZ2 mid drive*​*Torque sensing PAS support​

Controllers and Controller Resources:​Votol - Qima Technology​Nanjing Fardriver - far-driver​Grin - Controllers - Ebike Parts - Shop​XLD (XunLiDa Electronics) Brainpower -​ES thread​JN (often labeled "DC MOTO CONTROLLER BY LITHIUM BATTERY" or "Brushless DC Motor Controller") -​Bafang - OEM Area​Sabvoton/MQCON - MQCON-e bike controller supplier​

marvin78

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• #20

KT LCD3 used in conjunction with TSDZ2 mid drive*VLCD5, VLCD6, XH18, LCD3, 860C, 850C, SW102 used in conjunction with TSDZ2 mid drive*

Replace with ->

KT LCD3 used in conjunction with TSDZ2 Mid drive
SW102 - 850c - 860c ( Bafang displays ) used in conjunction with TSDZ2 Mid Drive
VLCD5 - VLCD6 - XH18 - DZ4x (?) - Okfeet 850c stock displays used in conjunction with TSDZ2 Mid Drive

eventually ( didn't add hyperlinks, just plain text 'template' ). I didn't even know about the Okfeet display lol, I was always assuming it was 'just' the 850c from Bafang.

edit: and after trying to find out more about this 'Okfeet 850c' I guess I found out google was hallucinating again when it told me the 'Okfeet 850c is a distinct seperate display from the Bafang 850c'. Okfeet official Ali store page doesn't even list an Okfeet 850c ( and they are all KT displays like the LCD3 ). Maybe I shouldn't try to search for stuff with a fever lol

Which is why I think topics like there would be very welcome. Or if this all would be in this 'knowledge base' I keep seeing being mentioned by some Last edited: Jan 20,

E-HP

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• #21

I just came across this thread. I'm especially interested in these generic looking controllers coming from China under various names or no name at all. I suspect that many of them share the same internal circuit board. Is there going to be any database or way to help identify these when people open them up and take a look at what's inside? Also of interest is some of these El Cheapo controllers from China do have features like regenerative braking, but you have to solder bridge something on the PC board.

I'm pretty much pulling info from ES threads the info that I want to capture (rather than making bookmarks in my browser), so to the extent the info shows up in a thread, I'd try to add it. It would be great if someone unlocked the mystery behind those generic controller, but I'm having trouble finding the info on some fairly popular brands.

As far as those generic controllers and some of the branded ones go, I'm looking for good representative threads regarding how to reliably identify features that the generic boards support that haven't been implemented on the the particular version sold, mainly because the questions about adding a throttle or PAS, etc. come up a lot.