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27 08, 2025

Introducing the uLCD-56D Series: Expanding the microLCD Family

2025-08-27T20:17:18+10:00Categories: Product News|

4D Systems is proud to announce the launch of the uLCD-56D Series, the newest addition to our microLCD family of intelligent displays. Designed to deliver enhanced performance, flexible options, and robust usability, the uLCD-56D Series offers engineers and product designers a professional-grade display solution powered by the proven DIABLO-16 processor.

Performance Powered by DIABLO-16

At the core of the uLCD-56D Series is the DIABLO-16 graphics processor, enabling rich graphics, smooth animations, and advanced functionality in a compact footprint. With full compatibility with the Workshop4 IDE, the uLCD-56D Series provides engineers with a straightforward development environment to create custom interfaces, optimise workflows, and accelerate time to market.

Series Variants

The uLCD-56D Series introduces three models to suit different application requirements:

  • uLCD-56D: Non-touch model for simple display needs.
  • uLCD-56DCT: Capacitive touch model for responsive, interactive interfaces.
  • uLCD-56DCT-CLB: Capacitive touch with a Cover Lens Bezel for added durability and a sleek finish.

These options allow engineers to select the ideal model depending on whether touch interaction, ruggedized design, or non-touch solutions are required.

Key Features

  • 5.6” Intelligent TFT Display
  • DIABLO-16 Processor for advanced graphics capabilities
  • Capacitive Touch Options for intuitive interaction
  • Cover Lens Bezel Model for industrial and commercial environments
  • Full support for Workshop4 IDE with multiple development environments

Applications

The uLCD-56D Series is built for flexibility across diverse industries. Applications include:

  • Industrial human-machine interfaces (HMIs)
  • Medical and laboratory equipment
  • Test and measurement instruments
  • Commercial devices requiring durable, interactive displays
  • Automotive and transportation systems

Expanding the microLCD Ecosystem

The addition of the uLCD-56D Series expands the versatility of the microLCD family, ensuring engineers have scalable solutions for both compact and mid-sized intelligent display requirements. By combining Diablo16 performance with multiple display options, the uLCD-56D Series enhances system capability while reducing development complexity.

Availability

The uLCD-56D Series is available now from 4D Systems and our global distribution partners. Visit the product page for detailed specifications, datasheets, and ordering information.

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20 08, 2025

Introducing the 4D HDMI Series: Intelligent HDMI Displays for Professional Applications

2025-08-20T22:38:30+10:00Categories: Product News|

4D Systems is pleased to announce the release of the 4D HDMI Series, a new family of intelligent HDMI displays engineered for high-performance and reliable integration across industrial, embedded, and professional applications.

High-Performance Display Technology

The 4D HDMI Series integrates high-quality TFT LCD panels with resolutions up to Full HD, delivering sharp and accurate visuals suitable for environments where clarity is critical. Wide viewing angles and high brightness options ensure optimal visibility in both controlled and high-ambient-light environments. Capacitive touch models are available, enabling responsive and accurate interaction for operator interfaces, instrumentation, and control systems.

Simple and Robust HDMI Connectivity

Designed with straightforward HDMI input, the 4D HDMI Series allows seamless connection to a wide variety of host platforms, including industrial PCs, embedded systems, Raspberry Pi, and other SBCs. A single USB connection is used for both power and optional touch interface, simplifying integration without the need for additional drivers. This ensures plug-and-play operation while maintaining system reliability.

Technical Highlights

  • HDMI input supporting resolutions up to Full HD
  • Capacitive touch options for interactive applications
  • Wide viewing angles with high brightness panels
  • Industrial-grade construction for durability
  • USB interface for power and optional touch functionality
  • Compatible with standard operating systems and SBCs

Flexible Range of Sizes

The 4D HDMI Series is offered in multiple display sizes to suit different system requirements, from compact handheld solutions to large-format panels for industrial HMI applications. This flexibility makes the series adaptable to a wide range of environments, ensuring engineers can select the appropriate display for their specific application.

Expanding the 4D Systems Product Portfolio

The addition of the 4D HDMI Series extends 4D Systems’ display portfolio, complementing existing intelligent display solutions while providing engineers with an HDMI-based option for projects that require simple integration without sacrificing professional-grade reliability.

Availability

The 4D HDMI Series is available now through 4D Systems and our global distribution partners. Visit the product page for detailed specifications, datasheets, and ordering information.

With the 4D HDMI Series, 4D Systems delivers a robust, HDMI-compatible display solution designed to meet the technical requirements of industrial, embedded, and professional environments.

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14 08, 2024

Announcing the gen4-RP2530 Series: Powering the Future of Embedded Displays with Raspberry Pi Technology

2024-10-02T01:21:16+10:00Categories: Product News|

We’re excited to introduce the 4D Systems gen4-RP2350 Series, a cutting-edge line of display modules designed to elevate your embedded projects. With sizes ranging from 2.4” to 9.0” and options for touch and non-touch screens, these displays are perfect for a wide range of applications. At the heart of this series is the powerful Raspberry Pi RP2350 microcontroller, which offers dual-core architecture, combining Arm Cortex-M33 and Hazard3 RISC-V cores, providing the flexibility to optimise performance for specific project needs.

Advanced Security and Performance

The RP2350 microcontroller features a robust security architecture built around Arm TrustZone for Cortex-M, including signed boot, SHA256 acceleration, a hardware True Random Number Generator (TRNG), and glitch detectors. With antifuse OTP key storage and a secure boot ROM, this microcontroller ensures your applications are powerful and secure. This transparent security model allows professional users to confidently integrate the gen4-RP2350 Series into products where security is critical.

Workshop5 IDE: Tailored Development for 4D Processors and Modules

To complement the gen4-RP2350 Series, 4D Systems is introducing the Workshop5 IDE, a comprehensive software development environment tailored specifically for these display modules. Leveraging Raspberry Pi’s Pico SDK, Workshop5 provides an integrated platform for designing, coding, and testing applications. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced developer, Workshop5 simplifies the creation of complex graphical user interfaces (GUIs) with a suite of tools that streamline the workflow from concept to deployment.

With Workshop5, users can seamlessly design, compile, and upload projects directly within the IDE. For those with specific needs, it also supports project export for continued development in other environments, offering maximum flexibility. Engineered to deliver a robust, user-friendly experience, Workshop5 equips developers with everything they need to bring their GUIs to life efficiently and precisely. Scheduled for release alongside the gen4-RP2350 Series, this IDE ensures that your development process is as smooth and powerful as the modules themselves.

Why “Powered by Raspberry Pi” Matters

The “Powered by Raspberry Pi” certification signifies that the gen4-RP2350 Series meets the highest quality and performance standards set by Raspberry Pi. This certification guarantees that our display modules are reliable and fully supported by Raspberry Pi’s extensive ecosystem of tools, documentation, and community resources.

Ideal for a Wide Range of Applications

Whether you’re developing industrial automation systems, IoT devices, medical instrumentation, or consumer electronics, the gen4-RP2350 Series is designed to offer the perfect combination of performance and security. With support for C/C++ and microPython and backed by detailed documentation, these display modules cater to both professional developers and enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The 4D Systems gen4-RP2350 Series, powered by the RP2350 microcontroller and supported by the upcoming Workshop5 IDE, represents the next level in embedded display technology. Combining robust security features, versatile dual-core architecture, and the assurance of the “Powered by Raspberry Pi” certification, this series is set to become the go-to choice for developers looking to create secure, high-performance embedded solutions. Explore the gen4-RP2350 Series today and bring your projects to life with the power and flexibility of Raspberry Pi.

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25 07, 2024

Announcing LVGL Certification for 4D Systems gen4-ESP32 Display Series

2024-10-02T01:23:05+10:00Categories: Product News|

We are thrilled to announce that the gen4-ESP32 display series from 4D Systems has achieved the prestigious LVGL certification! This certification marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to providing high-quality and versatile display solutions for engineers and professionals across various industries.

A Powerful Partnership with LVGL

Partnering with LVGL, a leading open-source graphics library, enables us to offer our customers the ability to create impressive, high-performance graphical user interfaces with ease. The LVGL certification assures that our gen4-ESP32 displays are fully optimized to leverage this library’s powerful features, providing a seamless development experience and outstanding performance.

The certified models include the gen4-ESP32-50CT and the gen4-ESP32-32CT, which offer a range of display sizes and touch panel options. These models have resolutions of 800×480 and 240×320, respectively, and are available in resistive, capacitive, and non-touch variations. With display sizes ranging from 2.4″ to 9″, our customers can choose the perfect module to fit their application needs.

Enhanced Customer Experience

The LVGL certification means users can create sophisticated user interfaces without worrying about performance or quality issues. Whether developing consumer electronics, industrial controls, or any application requiring a polished and responsive interface, our gen4-ESP32 series equipped with LVGL support provides the reliability and ease of use that professionals demand.

Our displays feature the ESP32-S3R8 processor, a powerful dual-core microcontroller running at up to 240 MHz, ensuring smooth operation even for the most demanding applications. The modules include multiple GPIOs, supporting UART, SPI, I2C, PWM, and analogue functionality, and interfaces for LCD touch screens, Quad SPI Flash, microSD cards, and Native USB-C. This extensive connectivity ensures flexibility and ease of integration into various projects.

Comprehensive Development Support

4D Systems provides robust support for the gen4-ESP32 series, including our proprietary IDE, Workshop 4, which offers a user-friendly, drag-and-drop programming environment. Additionally, we support the Arduino platform with our display and touch drivers, making development accessible to many users. Espressif’s ESP-IDF 5.2 framework fully supports those seeking a more advanced development environment, offering a powerful toolset for creating professional-grade applications.

Conclusion

The LVGL certification of our gen4-ESP32 display series is a testament to our dedication to delivering top-notch display solutions. This partnership enhances the capabilities of our displays, providing our customers with the tools they need to develop high-quality, responsive user interfaces quickly and efficiently.

Explore the possibilities with 4D Systems’ gen4-ESP32 series and take your projects to the next level. Visit our store for more information and to purchase our certified modules.

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22 07, 2024

Unveiling the Enhanced microOLED PIXXI Series

2024-10-02T01:25:25+10:00Categories: Product News|Tags: |

We are thrilled to introduce the latest advancements in our microOLED line—the uOLED-96P2, uOLED-128P2, and uOLED-160P2. This new generation builds upon the resounding success of our unique microOLED series, now powered by the PIXXI-28 processor. It offers enhanced performance and features for an unparalleled engineering experience.

The microOLED series has been a staple in display technology for over a decade and is renowned for its reliability and innovation. This latest launch marks a new era for the highly successful and unique microOLED line. With the PIXXI-28 processor, users can now access more computing power and advanced features. These improvements set a higher standard for clarity, versatility, and seamless integration in engineering applications.

Key Features

  • Advanced 4D-Labs PIXXI-28 Processor: The uOLED-96P2, uOLED-128P2, and uOLED-160P2 are mechanically identical to the previous Goldelox modules but with the PIXXI-28 processor. This upgrade brings significant performance gains over GOLDELOX and introduces the ability to run ViSi-Genie, a feature GOLDELOX lacked.
  • Vivid RGB 65K True-to-Life Colors: Immerse yourself in a world of vibrant and true-to-life colours. The uOLED series boasts an impressive RGB colour palette, bringing your projects to life with unparalleled visual clarity.
  • Premium PMOLED Screen: The Passive Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode (PMOLED) technology delivers superior contrast, wide viewing angles, and exceptional brightness for optimal readability.
  • Low-Cost High Performance: The uOLED series perfectly balances performance and affordability. Now, PIXXI-28 sets a new standard for cost-effective engineering solutions.
  • Easy 10-Pin Interface: Seamless integration is our design philosophy’s core. The uOLED series features an easy 10-pin interface, facilitating a hassle-free connection to any host device. Reduce setup time and streamline your workflow effortlessly.

PIXXI-28 Advancements

The PIXXI-28 processor, which powers the new microOLED P2 series, introduces several substantial advancements over the previous Goldelox-based models:

  1. Enhanced Performance: The PIXXI-28 processor delivers significant performance improvements, enabling faster graphics rendering and smoother animations. This improved processing power allows for more complex and visually appealing graphical user interfaces.
  2. FAT File System Support: Unlike the GOLDELOX processor, which only supports RAW files, the PIXXI-28 processor supports the FAT file system. This advancement simplifies file management, making storing and retrieving multimedia content and data files more manageable.
  3. Increased Memory Capacity: The new series offers expanded memory options, with up to 32KB of flash memory for user code storage and 14KB of RAM for user variables. This increased memory capacity allows for more extensive and sophisticated applications.
  4. Versatile Storage Options: The microOLED P2 series provides flexible storage solutions with models available in both Flash and microSD configurations. This versatility allows users to choose the storage option that best suits their specific application needs, whether for multimedia storage, data logging, or code expansion.
  5. ViSi-Genie Compatibility: The PIXXI-28 processor introduces compatibility with ViSi-Genie, a powerful graphical user interface design tool unavailable with the GOLDELOX processor. ViSi-Genie provides a codeless approach to creating complex GUIs, reducing development time and effort and allowing you to focus on the core functionality using your preferred host controllers.
  6. Comprehensive I/O Options: The PIXXI-28 processor offers a range of versatile I/O options, including analogue input, Dallas 1-wire sensor capability, audio generation, and digital I/O. This comprehensive set of features ensures that the microOLED P2 series can meet the diverse needs of various engineering applications.

These advancements ensure that the microOLED P2 series meets and exceeds the demands of modern engineering projects. The microOLED P2 series delivers enhanced performance, reliability, and ease of use. Engineers and developers can leverage these advancements to elevate their projects with dynamic, innovative displays offering superior visual clarity and seamless integration.

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27 06, 2024

Strengthening Our Partnership: 4D Systems and Breadboard Mates Merge Production and Resources

2024-06-27T03:09:57+10:00Categories: Company News|

At 4D Systems, we constantly seek ways to enhance our offerings and provide our customers with the best products and support. Today, we are excited to announce a significant development in our ongoing partnership with Breadboard Mates: we are merging our production and resources to bring you even more significant benefits.

Expanding Product Availability

With this merger, all Breadboard Mates products will now be available through the 4D Systems sales network. This integration ensures you can easily access the innovative, breadboard-friendly products that Breadboard Mates is known for, which are supported by our established distribution channels.

Superior Technical Support

Our customers can now access advanced technical support from our experienced engineering team. By combining our expertise with Breadboard Mates’ innovative products, we are well-equipped to provide you with the guidance and support needed to succeed in your projects.

Unmatched Customization Options

Customisation has always been our priority, and this merger will enhance our ability to offer tailored solutions. With Breadboard Mates’ cutting-edge technology and extensive customisation capabilities, we can better meet your specific requirements and help you achieve your project goals.

Looking Forward

This merger is a testament to the successful collaboration between 4D Systems and Breadboard Mates. Together, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering superior value to our customers. We are excited about the future and the opportunities this merger brings.

We thank you for your continued trust in 4D Systems and look forward to supporting your needs with even more advanced and customised solutions.

Browse the Breadboard Mates Products

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18 12, 2023

Engineering for Commercial Success

2024-06-17T22:05:39+10:00Categories: White Papers|

Choosing the HMI (Human-Machine Interface) components that your users interact with is a key part of the product development process. The right display module can give your device a competitive advantage, reduce user error and frustration – and help keep your device compliant. But deciding how to produce your intelligent display, which display to buy, to what degree you customize it – and even considering building one from scratch – can be a tough commercial choice.

In this whitepaper we provide a comprehensive overview of key commercial factors to consider when evaluating these options.

We outline how market dynamics like time-to-market, production volume, and cost control impact the build, buy, or customize decisions. We also explore how unique device specifications may necessitate customised HMIs, while off-the-shelf solutions can streamline development.

Other factors we discuss include available engineering expertise, risks like development delays, and the burden of ensuring regulatory compliance.

Equipped with these insights, you can make informed choices around building, buying, and customizing HMIs: reducing development time and costs while still meeting product requirements and compliance standards – all while minimising risk and getting your application into market.

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24 10, 2023

The gen4-ESP32 Range: Elevating Display Technology

2024-03-20T18:58:50+11:00Categories: Product News|Tags: |

4D Systems is excited to announce the launch of the gen4-ESP32 range, marking a significant step forward in the world of embedded displays and IoT applications. The gen4-ESP32 range is ideally suited for the dynamic world of IoT. Supported by a vibrant community of developers, it offers endless possibilities in applications ranging from home automation and data monitoring, to alarm systems, and everything in between.

Expanding Horizons with ESP32

The ESP32 has gained widespread adoption across various market segments, serving as a versatile microcontroller for numerous applications. Its compatibility with popular development environments like Arduino and microPython has made it a go-to choice for developers. A new line of smart displays is approaching the market, with ESP32 at the core. Leveraging 4D technology, customers already familiar with the ESP32 will find it easy to integrate and use this range of displays.

If you are already using products such as gen4-uLCD, you’ll find that the gen4-ESP32 range retains the same gen4 form factor, making migration seamless.

Compared to the gen4-IoD line, based on the ESP8266, the gen4-ESP32 range offers more power and versatility, unlocks new possibilities with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity with a familiar programming language, making it more accessible.

Versatile Possibilities

The gen4-ESP32 presents a comprehensive solution that caters to both beginners and seasoned engineers seeking a user-friendly and familiar approach to integrating displays into their products or applications.

The use of ESP32-S3 features offers a smooth setup, handled automatically by Workshop4 IDE. The Workshop4 IDE streamlines development with its user-friendly interface and comprehensive library tools, eliminating complex setups.

The gen4-ESP32 ensures compatibility with all existing development environments available on this processor, offering comprehensive support to cater to a wide range of user needs.

Its comprehensive size range starts from 2.4 inches and extends to 5.0 inches, with plans for 7.0-inch and 9.0-inch options in the near future. In contrast, other products in the market often provide only one or two size options, resulting in an inconsistent form factor landscape.

The graphics system is designed for effortless usability, while the uSD (microSD) provides a robust data repository. The included library tools are entirely customisable, allowing users to achieve their desired aesthetic rather than being limited to predefined widgets.

ESP32 Use Cases and Applications

What sets the gen4-ESP32 Range apart is its unconstrained potential. While other product ranges serve specific purposes, the ESP32 offers an all-in-one solution. With built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, a familiar programming language, and compatibility with the Workshop4 IDE, it combines the best features of all other ranges into one powerhouse package.

Industries like home automation and large-scale building control stand to benefit significantly from the gGen4-ESP32 Range’s built-in wireless communication capabilities.

The gen4-ESP32 is a versatile platform that can empower a wide array of applications across different industries, examples include:

  • Home Automation: Homeowners looking to create smart homes will find the gen4-ESP32 range invaluable. Its built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities allow for seamless integration with smart devices, enabling users to control lighting, HVAC systems, security cameras, and more from their smartphones or tablets. With support for the new Matter protocol, these displays are now compatible with any smart home ecosystem, expanding their versatility and usability.
  • Security and Alarm Systems: The robustness of the ESP32 makes it suitable for security and alarm systems. Developers can create DIY security solutions or enhance existing ones with wireless connectivity and real-time alerts.
  • Remote Monitoring and Control: Whether it’s managing a remote research station or controlling a fleet of vehicles, the ESP32 offers reliable connectivity for remote monitoring and control applications. It ensures data is transmitted securely and instantly.
  • Smart Building: The gen4-ESP32 can facilitate centralised control of lighting, HVAC, access control, and energy management systems, optimising energy efficiency and enhancing occupants’ comfort and security. These displays seamlessly integrate into modern smart building ecosystems, making them an ideal choice for smart building projects.

The gen4-ESP32 range represents a significant advancement in embedded displays and IoT applications. With its robust capabilities, familiar programming language, and seamless compatibility with existing 4D Systems products, it’s a game changer for professional engineers, developers, and IoT enthusiasts alike.

Until next time.

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12 10, 2023

A Melody of Innovation and Nostalgia: Analog Audio Design’s TP-1000

2023-10-16T20:30:53+11:00Categories: Appliances|Tags: |

The gen4-uLCD-50DCT-CLB display integrated in the Analog Audio Design’s TP-1000

Once a cornerstone of musical delight, the tape player has long held a place in the hearts of music enthusiasts. Many still believe music on tape offers qualities superior to that in digital format; a warm, rich sound, a wide dynamic range and a more authentic representation of the original sound. For some, the tape player remains a soulful connection to the past.

It’s unexpected, then, that a new analogue tape player would be released against a backdrop of smartphones and wearable IoT. However, Analog Audio Design, a small company based in Pleumeur-Bodou in France, saw an opportunity and embedded modern innovation into a late 1900s relic.

Last year, Christophe Martinez, the founder of Analog Audio Design, released the TP-1000 ⸺ an open reel tape recorder. At first glance, it looks like a nostalgic nod to decades past, but the TP-1000 is a harmonious blend of classic charm and cutting-edge innovation.

Here’s how 4D Systems assisted Analog Audio Design with the development of their modern tape player by providing the perfect LCD display solution.

Beyond Vinyl: Reviving Vintage Sound

The recent re-emergence and popularity of vinyl records and audio cassettes prompted Christophe Martinez to consider a new tape recorder project.

“Since 2014, the return of vinyl hasn’t wavered, with sales still on the rise. Today there’s also talk of the return of the audio cassette. Both technologies are based on analogue sound.The market for magnetic tapes has been growing steadily for several years, but the tape recorders capable of playing this type of tape are ageing, difficult to maintain, demand keeps growing and second-hand prices are skyrocketing.”

Christophe Martinez, the founder of Analog Audio Design

Identifying a gap in the market, Christophe began development of a modern tape recorder in 2017. His goal was to provide music-lovers with an unrivalled sound experience, surpassing even vinyl records.

In 2022, he launched the TP-1000, offering customers a new, reliable machine capable of delivering an unparalleled analogue sound experience. The device is entirely analogue and designed for the reproduction of 1/4″ magnetic tapes.

“TP-1000 customers are passionate audiophiles looking for unrivalled sound, superior to that of vinyl. It’s a worldwide market.”

Christophe Martinez, the founder of Analog Audio Design

Harmonising the User Experience

One of the key challenges in TP-1000’s development was providing users with ergonomic access to advanced functions. Having the perfect display module was pivotal to the project’s success.

Christophe had worked with 4D Systems more than a decade prior and, based on this experience, he reached out for assistance.

The simple serial link between the microcontroller and the screen and the screen-integrated graphics processor resonated with Christophe’s vision for the tape player, and he chose the gen4-uLCD-50DCT-CLB display module with cover lens bezel.

The gen4-uLCD-50DCT-CLB is a powerful 5.0″ Intelligent LCD-TFT display powered by DIABLO16. It features an 800 x 480 resolution, delivering RGB 65K true-to-life colours.

Christophe says the touch screen streamlines the design by removing the need for buttons.

“The advantage of a display is that it eliminates the need to add physical buttons for the functions mentioned above, and in the future, it can also be used to add other functions simply by downloading new firmware.”

Christophe Martinez, the founder of Analog Audio Design

The display has been programmed to showcase time counters, speed and equalisation options, audio output levels, and maintenance pages.

A Classic Symphony with Modern Riffs

After four years of development, the TP-1000 successfully addressed the demand for a high-quality, modern tape recorder for audiophiles worldwide.

The tape player boasts impressive technical features, all conveniently accessible through the display interface (gen4-uLCD-50DCT-CLB), making it exceptionally user-friendly. For example, the REW + Play feature automates the tape rewinding process to the beginning and seamlessly initiates playback. The device calculates the optimal rewind distance based on the remaining tape diameter and core diameter, both adjustable on the intuitive touch screen display.

While being somewhat vintage in appearance, the tape player boasts a range of modern capabilities, including a 6.35mm headphone output and an RJ45 Ethernet socket which allows remote control and software updates.

The final outcome garnered immense praise at its launch listening session at the Acoustic Gallery in Paris, leaving attendees astounded by the depth and quality of sound, precision in tape movement and the feeling of unlimited bandwidth and dynamics.

Encore: Soundscape of the Future

Christophe Martinez has ambitious plans for the future, including the development of the TR-1000 recorder version, which will be an advanced edition of the TP-1000. The gen4-uLCD-50DCT-CLB display will see further use, with plans for a touch-screen remote control in subsequent projects.

Analog Audio Design’s TP-1000, equipped with 4D Systems’ gen4-uLCD-50DCT-CLB display module, has successfully brought the unparalleled sound experience of analogue devices to passionate audiophiles worldwide. The incorporation of the intelligent display has added convenience, functionality, and an elegant design to the TP-1000, making it a remarkable and sought-after open reel tape player.

In an increasingly modern world, the TP-1000 remains an ode to music, a testament to the enduring appeal of analogue sound, and proof that technology and culture can co-exist in harmony.

Until next time.

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13 09, 2023

No RS485 in your display processor? Here’s a solution

2023-09-29T23:12:07+10:00Categories: Display Technologies|Tags: |

MOTG-RS485 Module

4D Systems’ MOTG-RS485 accessory module adds RS485 communication on your next display application.

RS485 holds significant importance in industrial applications due to its ability to facilitate long-distance communication. This serial communication method is designed to operate over extended cable distances. This makes it an ideal choice when devices are spread out over considerable distances within an industrial setting. RS485 communication is widely used in manufacturing, medical, retail, and commercial industries, even those involving high-quality display modules and processors.

When we say that the display processor does not support the RS485 serial communication method, it means that the system is limited from being used in scenarios where long-distance communication is required.

4D Systems has designed an accessory board for equipping various gen4-uLCD displays with an RS485 module. For example, the MOTG-AC1 can be used as an interface board to connect a MOTG module to Diablo16-based gen4 display modules easily. Similarly, we offer MOTG-AC2, MOTG-AC3, and MOTG-AC4 to feature single/dual MOTG slots depending on the module size and processor used.

Connecting the MOTG-AC1 Adaptor and MOTG RS485 with gen4-uLCD-24DT

In this article, we will discuss the fundamental aspects of RS485 and its relevance in industrial display applications. Furthermore, we will explore the innovative solution provided by 4D systems through their MOTG-RS485 accessory module in implementing RS485 serial communication support in all gen4 micro LCD displays.

Basics of RS485 serial communication protocol

As mentioned earlier, RS485 communication is a serial communication method used for point-to-point communication among electrical devices, similar to USB and Ethernet, and is widely adopted in industrial applications. The RS485 communication method facilitates communication between a master and multiple slave devices in the network, where several slaves can be connected to the bus. While RS485 can support point-to-point communication, it is typically used with multiple slave devices.

Within the OSI model (Open Systems Interconnection) which defines the different layers of a communication system from the application to the physical layer, RS485 operates at the physical layer. The physical layer of the OSI model is responsible for facilitating data transfer between a device and a physical transmission medium.

The RS485 serial communication is not only for its long-distance data transmission capabilities but also for its resilience in electrically noisy environments. In RS485 communications, two types of noise can occur– differential noise and common mode noise.

While common mode noise generally has minimal impact, it is essential to implement the right circuit design techniques to minimize differential noise. In commercial applications, a twisted pair cable is used for RS485 communications to mitigate electrical interference. Each differential RS485 signal transceiver should be connected to the corresponding wires of the twisted pair, reducing the effects of electrical interference.

Reference: Embedded Display Solutions

In a standard RS485 communication system using a twisted pair cable, the master device, acting as the host computer , initiates communication by sending a signal through its TX wire to establish a connection with the slave devices on the network. Subsequently, the master device transmits commands to the end device, for example, a motor controller to control speed or direction, which, in turn, receives the signal through its RX wire connected to the same twisted pair cable.

The RS485 communication offers versatility in display applications due to its advantages over other serial communication methods. 4D Systems has provided support to its gen4 micro LCD displays through the integration of the MOTG-RS485 accessory module into the advanced display system.

Reference: Sparkfun

The above image depicts how an RS485 signal is observed on an oscilloscope. RS485 uses a differential signaling technique, where the same data is transmitted on two wires (A+ and B-) but with opposite polarities. When logic 1 is present on one wire, the other wire carries a logic 0.

To enable high-speed data transmission over long distances, these two opposing signals are transmitted through a twisted pair of wires. The advantage of this arrangement is that any noise induced on these lines affects both signals equally but in opposite directions, effectively canceling out the noise.

Add-on module to support RS485 communications

We developed the MOTG-RS485 module to offer a high-speed and low-cost solution that plays an important role in facilitating the integration of RS485 serial communication protocol in almost any of your intelligent display applications.

The MOTG-RS485 add-on module integrates the STMicroelectronics’ ST1480ACDR differential line transceiver, which operates using a 3.3V power supply for RS485 and RS422 communications. This transceiver configuration consists of a single driver and receiver, supporting half-duplex functionality. As a result, the module can alternate between transmitting and receiving data as required. With its robust capabilities, the transceiver enables reliable data transmission over long distances, even in electrically noisy environments.

Master and Slaves (RS485)

gen4 HMI 4.3″ Display Connected with the MOTG-AC4 Adaptor and MOTG-RS485 Module

What is 4D Systems’ MOTG approach?

4D Systems introduced the Modules-on-the-Go (MOTG) concept, enabling the seamless expansion of system capabilities for embedded designs involving display applications. This concept revolves around simple plug-and-play hardware modules that can be easily added or removed. This approach is aimed to eliminate the need for complex soldering, simplifying assembly and maintenance processes.

Conclusion

There you go. Now you can get your hands on the 4D Systems Modules-on-the-Go (MOTG) and add support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RS485, RS232, CANBUS, and MP3 audio sound to your next display application.

The 4Discovery Range is also available as an option that supports RS485.

Until next time.

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