Matrix Orbital VFD2041 Legacy - Manual (Page 4)

1 Introduction
The VFD2041 comes equipped with the following features;
• 20 column by 4 line text display
• Built in font with provision for up to 8 user defined characters
• Speeds from 1200 bps to a lighting fast 19.2 Kbps over RS-232
• Communication over RS-232 or I
2 C
• Use of up to 16 modules on the same 2 wire I
2 C interface
• Software controlled brightness
• Display with configurable time out setting up to 180 minutes
• One general purpose output for a variety of applications
• Horizontal or vertical bar graphs
• Variable power options, +5V or +7V to +15V
• Extended temperature option
• Fits Matrix Orbital’s Dual PC Bay insert without any modifications
1.1 What to Expect From the VFD2041
The VFD2041 is designed as the display unit for an associated controller. The controller may be anything
from a single board, special purpose micro-controller to a PC, depending on the application. This controller
is responsible for what is displayed on the screen of the display.
The display provides a simple command structure to allow text and bar graphs to be displayed on the
screen. Text fonts are built in, and use standard ASCII mapping. Provision is made for up to 8 user defined
characters.
The screen is backlit for low light situations. Backlighting may be turned on or off under program
control. Contrast is adjustable to compensate for differing lighting conditions and viewing angles.
A general purpose output allows the controller to switch an electronic or electro-mechanical device by
issuing commands to the display unit. This can be used for controlling LEDs, relays, etc.
1.2 What Not to Expect From the VFD2041
The display does not include bitmap graphics capability, except that permitted by defining special char-
acters. The display does not include a keypad interface.
1.3 Setup for Testing
Before setting up the application the user may want to try out the display. This is easily done with a PC.
If not equipped with a dual bay PC mounting kit, the following will be required;
• A 4-pin power connector of the type used to connect 3.5" floppy drive. Take care not to connect the
display to an unmodified spare power connector in a PC.
• A 5V power supply.
• A PC with a spare RS-232 port (COM1 or COM2).
Matrix Orbital VFD2041 1