ComputerVoltageSources

It is true that you can get a bare bones 8x2 or 16x2 LCD for $10 or less.
It is the support circuitry that adds the cost.  Add backlighting
(recommended) and you add another $5 or so to the cost.  The LCDs you
mention require IO that doesn't exist on the BASIC ATOM PRO controller.
There aren't enough pins to drive it.  Add decoders/drivers, serial
interface, and other necessary parts and the cost easily doubles.

Dave responded offlist that he used a surplus LCD with a serial port to
reduce IO and processing requirements for the BASIC ATOM PRO controller.
The serial port LCD typically has its own microcontroller onboard.

I can work with Dave offlist to investigate LCD options, or we can work it
on the list to get other design feedback.

On a side note, as a general rule we should not specify surplus parts for
this project.  There is no guarantee they'll be available at any time in the
future.  

John Loffink
The Microtonal Synthesis Web Site
http://www.microtonal-synthesis.com
The Wavemakers Synthesizer Web Site
http://www.wavemakers-synth.com


> -----Original Message-----
> From: ComputerVoltageSources@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:ComputerVoltageSources@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Eric
> Brombaugh
> 
> LCDs aren't too expensive - typically $5 - $10. For
> example:
> 
> http://www.allelectronics.com/cgi-
> bin/category/365/LCDs_(Liquid_Crystal_Displays).html
> 
> Eric
>