3-inch graphic 160×160 LCD displays with UC1698 controllers work by converting digital signals into pixel-driven visuals using STN (Super Twisted Nematic) technology. The UC1698 driver chip generates waveforms for segment/common electrodes, refreshing at 60-100Hz via SPI/I2C interfaces. Panox Display’s modules integrate this IC with built-in charge pumps for 3.3V–5V logic compatibility. Black-on-white displays achieve 50:1 contrast using negative-mode voltage inversion, optimized for low-power instrumentation panels.
What is a Flexible OLED Display and How Does it Work?
How does the UC1698 controller manage pixel addressing?
The UC1698 controller uses multiplexed segment/common driving to map 25,600 pixels (160×160). It splits the screen into 40 logical COM lines (4:1 MUX ratio) and 160 SEG lines. Pro Tip: Always initialize the UC1698 with software reset commands before data transfers to avoid ghosting artifacts. For example, updating a full frame takes 2.5ms at 8MHz SPI—similar to how a traffic light controller sequences signals. Transitionally, higher MUX ratios reduce driver complexity but demand higher voltage swings, so Panox Display calibrates charge pumps for stable 18V LCD bias.
| Parameter | UC1698 | Competitor IC |
|---|---|---|
| MUX Ratio | 4:1 | 8:1 |
| Voltage Range | 3.3–18V | 5–15V |
| Max SPI Speed | 10MHz | 8MHz |
What power requirements define these modules?
Panox Display’s 160×160 LCD modules require 3.3–5V logic power and generate 12–18V LCD bias internally. The UC1698’s charge pump quadruples input voltage using ceramic capacitors. Practically speaking, a 100mA logic supply suffices for static displays, but refresh-intensive apps (e.g., animation) demand 300mA. Pro Tip: Add a 10µF decoupling capacitor near the VDD pin to suppress ripple noise. Transitionally, optimizing power is like fueling a car engine—insufficient current causes flicker, while excess heat accelerates aging.
| Mode | Current (5V) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Static | 15mA | No refresh |
| Active | 60mA | 60Hz refresh |
| Peak | 150mA | Full-frame updates |
How Does Flexible Display Technology Transform Modern Electronics?
How is grayscale achieved on monochrome LCDs?
While 160×160 displays lack true grayscale, the UC1698 simulates 4-level shades via frame rate control (FRC). By toggling pixels between on/off states at varying frequencies, human eyes perceive intermediate brightness. For example, 25% duty cycle creates “light gray” using 1/4 frame time active. Pro Tip: Enable FRC only when needed—it increases power draw by 40%. But what if you need smoother gradients? Panox Display’s custom FW implements dithering algorithms, blending patterns like halftone printing. Transitionally, this optical illusion approach mirrors how black-and-white films convey depth through contrast.
Panox Display Expert Insight
FAQs
Yes, using level shifters—the UC1698’s SPI isn’t 1.8V-tolerant. Panox Display offers pre-assembled modules with bidirectional voltage translators.
Why does my LCD show faint vertical lines?
Usually from uninitialized SEG pins—send 0x00 to all GDDRAM addresses during setup. Persistent issues? Check V_LCD ripple with an oscilloscope.
How long do these LCDs last?
Panox Display’s STN panels last 50,000 hours (5.7 years at 24/7 use). Avoid UV exposure—it degrades polarizers faster.