Monochrome Character Modules
For products that require the use of alpha or numeric characters on the display, a monochrome character module can be built to fit product requirements. Monochrome character LCD modules are available in black and white and can be designed to meet any backlight color requirement. Changing the backlight color gives an added effect to the display, making it look as though it utilizes colored numbers.
The backlight can be changed to a variety of colors, using the Red/Green/Blue (RGB) scheme, to mix and create the necessary color for the background. Emergency vehicles, for example, utilize red whereas other products, such as HVAC systems, choose colors such as blue so it is not harsh during the night hours in people’s homes.
Ocular has reference designs of character LCD modules available with set lines and characters required. However, Ocular also has the expertise to build custom character LCD modules if required.
Character modules can be built as Twisted Nematic (TN) or Super Twisted Nematic (STN) displays. Twisted Nematic displays are very cost effective but have limited multiplex ratios available. If additional ratios are required, STN displays are also available. The STN displays can also be used for larger size requirements, offering moderate response times.
Since Ocular has been providing LCD solutions for over two decades, a robust portfolio of reference designs are available. Ocular also provides customizable options, consulting services and a full suite of engineering services including electronic design, mechanical design, industrial design, PCB design and firmware development. Ocular’s design team has developed numerous capabilities including anti-reflective glass bonding for TFT displays that are readable in direct sunlight, high brightness LCD backlighting systems, heater-bonded LCD for systems that must operate at extremely low temperatures, shock-mounted LCDs and encapsulated LCDs for harsh environmental operating applications.
Ocular’s Monochrome Character Modules
| Reference Design Number | Display Format (character x line) | Interface | Display Area (mm) | LCM Outline (mm) | Fluid Type | Backlight | Other | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FMA16216‑01 | 16 x 2 | Built-in controller, 4/8 bits | 66.0 x 16.0 | 80 x 36 | GSTN | Yellow Green | Transflective | COB |
| FMA1622‑01 | 16 x 2 | Built-in controller, 4/8 bits | 99 x 23.9 | 122 x 44 | STN | Yellow Green | Transflective | COB |
| FMA20211‑01 | 20 x 2 | Built-in controller, 4/8 bits | 83.4 x 19 | 116 x 37 | STN | Yellow Green | Transmissive | COB |
| FMA2023‑03 | 20 x 2 | Built-in controller, 4/8 bits | 123 x 23 | 146 x 43 | STN | Yellow Green | Transmissive | COB |
| FMA2041‑03 | 20 x 4 | Built-in controller, 4/8 bits | 76 x 27.5 | 98 x 60 | STN | Yellow Green | Transflective | COB |
Minimum order quantities apply, contact Ocular for additional information.
Legend
| Acronym | Definition | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| STN | Super Twisted Nematic | STN displays are used for high multiplex (larger graphics) displays with moderate response times |
| GSTN | Grey STN with bluish-black characters | GSTN displays are used for high multiplex (larger graphics) displays, utilizing a different liquid crystal than the STN for more neutral colors |
| FSTN | Film compensated super twisted nematic | FSTN displays add a compensating film to STN technology to attain wider viewing angles with less color shift |
| COB | Chip on Board | With the controller chip on the PWB, a very cost effective solution with good ESD protection is possible |
| COG | Chip on Glass | Chip on Glass construction allows for a compact solution with very high performance |
| COF | Chip on Flex | This construction attains high display performance in very compact designs |
| TN | Twisted Nematic | TN type displays provide the best response time and contrast at a cost effective point but are limited to low multiplex ratios |
