What are the software libraries available for programming a Black On White Graphic LCD?

Hey there! I'm a supplier of Black On White Graphic LCDs, and I often get asked about the software libraries available for programming these nifty displays. In this blog post, I'll walk you through some of the top libraries out there that can make your programming journey a whole lot easier.

Why Software Libraries Matter

Before we dive into the specific libraries, let's quickly talk about why they're so important. Software libraries are pre - written code snippets that you can use in your projects. They save you a ton of time because you don't have to write every single line of code from scratch. Instead, you can focus on the unique features of your application while relying on the library to handle the basic functions of the LCD.

Popular Software Libraries for Black On White Graphic LCDs

1. Adafruit GFX Library

The Adafruit GFX Library is a real gem in the world of LCD programming. It's open - source, which means you can use it for free and even modify it if you need to. This library is super versatile and can work with a wide range of displays, including Black On White Graphic LCDs.

One of the great things about the Adafruit GFX Library is its simple and intuitive API. You can draw basic shapes like circles, rectangles, and lines with just a few lines of code. For example, to draw a circle on the LCD, you can use a function like this:

#include <Adafruit_GFX.h>
// Assume you have initialized your LCD display object called lcd
lcd.drawCircle(50, 50, 20, WHITE);

This code will draw a white circle at the coordinates (50, 50) with a radius of 20 pixels. The Adafruit GFX Library also supports text rendering, so you can easily display messages on your LCD.

You can find more information about the Adafruit GFX Library on the official Adafruit website. It has detailed documentation and examples that can help you get started quickly.

2. U8g2 Library

The U8g2 Library is another popular choice for programming Black On White Graphic LCDs. It's designed to be lightweight and efficient, making it a great option for microcontrollers with limited resources.

One of the standout features of the U8g2 Library is its support for a large number of display controllers. Whether your LCD uses the SSD1306, SH1106, or other common controllers, the U8g2 Library can probably work with it.

Here's a simple example of using the U8g2 Library to draw a rectangle on the LCD:

#include <U8g2lib.h>
// Assume you have initialized your U8g2 display object called u8g2
u8g2.drawFrame(10, 10, 30, 20);

This code will draw a rectangular frame starting at the coordinates (10, 10) with a width of 30 pixels and a height of 20 pixels. The U8g2 Library also has excellent support for different font styles, so you can make your text look really cool on the LCD.

You can check out the U8g2 Library on its official GitHub repository, where you'll find the source code, documentation, and a community of developers sharing tips and tricks.

3. PCD8544 Library

If your Black On White Graphic LCD uses the PCD8544 controller (like the Nokia 5110 display), then the PCD8544 Library is the way to go. This library is specifically tailored to work with LCDs that use this controller.

The PCD8544 Library provides functions for basic graphics operations such as clearing the screen, setting pixels, and drawing text. It's relatively easy to use, even for beginners.

Here's an example of using the PCD8544 Library to display some text on the LCD:

#include <PCD8544.h>
// Assume you have initialized your PCD8544 display object called nokia
nokia.setCursor(0, 0);
nokia.print("Hello, World!");

This code will set the cursor to the top - left corner of the screen and print the message "Hello, World!" on the LCD.

Comparing the Libraries

Each of these libraries has its own strengths and weaknesses. The Adafruit GFX Library is great for its versatility and ease of use, especially if you're new to LCD programming. The U8g2 Library is a top choice when you're working with limited resources and need a lightweight solution. And the PCD8544 Library is essential if you're using an LCD with the PCD8544 controller.

When choosing a library for your project, consider factors like the display controller of your LCD, the resources available on your microcontroller, and your own programming skills.

Our Black On White Graphic LCD Products

As a supplier of Black On White Graphic LCDs, we offer a range of high - quality products. For example, our Dark On White Graphic LCD Display Module is perfect for applications where you need a clear and sharp display. It has excellent contrast and is easy to interface with different microcontrollers.

Our LCD Screen Module for Professional Electronic Scale is specifically designed for electronic scale applications. It can display weight readings accurately and is built to be durable.

And if you're looking for a small display for a commercial calculator, our LCD Small Commercial Calculator Screen is a great option. It has a compact size and low power consumption.

Let's Connect

If you're interested in our Black On White Graphic LCD products or have any questions about programming them using these software libraries, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you find the right solution for your project. Whether you're a hobbyist working on a cool DIY project or a professional developer building a large - scale application, we've got you covered.

References

• Adafruit GFX Library official documentation
• U8g2 Library official GitHub repository
• PCD8544 Library source code and examples