Noritake Graphic VFD (128x32) free samples - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2013, 04:12:22 pm
content: Never seen Noritake offer free samples.http://www.noritake-elec.com/evalkit-sample.phpGraphic VFDUART or USARTHas included Arduino and AVR librariesLikely, the usual free sample rules apply.

author: Dongulus
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2013, 04:19:35 pm
content: I've never ordered free samples. Which rules would those be?

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2013, 04:29:02 pm
content: Usually, they are to be ordered by employees of companies. In hopes that in the end you select it for use in a product or at least you evaluate its use in a product. Some companies are REALLY uptight about it. Others are not. For example, Texas Instruments is incredible generous. Same with Maxim. I digress, the terms appear to just be Limit 1 per person while supplies last. I don't see any other restrictions.

author: Dongulus
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2013, 04:54:34 pm
content: I only really want one for personal use. I wouldn't feel right about giving them an impression that I am seriously considering their product for a design when I would, in actuality, have absolutely no use for it at work.

author: garak
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2013, 08:23:35 pm
content: Thanks for pointing this one out, Pedro. Shame it's US/CAN only though

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2013, 04:16:57 am
content: How do I beat the Maxim corporate email checker...?

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2013, 08:24:17 am
content: Quote from: echen1024 on September 14, 2013, 04:16:57 amWhy do you want to? There are so many more interesting things to do in electronics than gambling e-mail checkers to leech some free samples. Use your time time to plonk down a few simple components on a breadboard and have some fun instead of hunting free samples that in the end just gain dust in your drawer.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2013, 12:53:29 pm
content: Pedro, thanks for pointing that out.Quote from: Dongulus on September 13, 2013, 04:54:34 pmI was thinking about that as well, as I intend to use it for personal use. However, given they have all the support tailored for Arduino I imagine they are targeting the hobbyist/enthusiast market.That and the fact that I plan to use it on the Tiva Launchpad and it is possible they may be interested in similar example code for that platform as well.In any case, they are free to refuse to send me. I did not lie in any of my answers to their form.

author: edavid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2013, 04:16:08 pm
content: Quote from: echen1024 on September 14, 2013, 04:16:57 amCall a sales office and tell them you are a student and would like the parts for a project.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2013, 07:48:06 pm
content: Quote from: edavid on September 14, 2013, 04:16:08 pmThat seriously works? Great!

author: edavid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2013, 08:15:25 pm
content: Quote from: echen1024 on September 14, 2013, 07:48:06 pmSales engineers are people too... of course they will do what they can to help out a 15 year old student. Be nice to them, and they will be nice to you.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2013, 09:28:33 pm
content: Quote from: edavid on September 14, 2013, 08:15:25 pmThat is true, but also keep in mind that, whatever annoys people in this forum can also annoy them - as an example: if you say that you need a part to complete your project assignment due next week and you show that you have no idea how to do that (or ask them to provide everything), then chances are high you will not get anything. If you have geniune interest it will show during the call.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2013, 04:11:33 am
content: Quote from: echen1024 on September 14, 2013, 07:48:06 pmIt doesn't work 100% of the time but I'd say a good 95-99% of the time. In general, most have no problem helping a student out. Plus it doesn't hurt that a student who learns on particular hardware will tend to favor that as an engineer.In general just keep in mind:1) Know what you need and what you need it for. As rjsouza said, don't go around asking too many questions that illustrate that you have NO clue what you need or how to use it. That's not to say don't ask questions, in and of themselves informed questions are a good thing. They show you know what you need even if you aren't quite sure which part is the most ideal.2) Don't be greedy. Ask for things you need. Don't make a laundry list of expensive parts just because you want them. If you can use it3) Never forget the power of a thank you. If a particular salesman helps you get some sample parts; don't forget to drop a thanks.

author: MacAttak
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 15, 2013, 05:09:35 am
content: For this one they aren't even asking for details about how you want to use it - appears to be no strings attached, while supplies last.Samples of the lower-end parts is essentially cheap marketing. Far cheaper than placing an ad in a publication.

author: ElektroQuark
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 15, 2013, 01:42:37 pm
content: Only USA and Canada.

author: jasonbrent
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2013, 02:01:05 pm
content: The form doesn't give any feedback that the request was received, unfortunately. A submission just seems to cause the form to reappear again. Maybe that means success.-jbl

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2013, 03:18:57 pm
content: Quote from: jasonbrent on September 15, 2013, 02:01:05 pmI hope so. I have this MCU powered power supply in mind that could use one of these.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2013, 08:44:01 pm
content: Quote from: jasonbrent on September 15, 2013, 02:01:05 pmSame here. I'm using Chrome, what browser are you using?

author: jasonbrent
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2013, 12:53:46 am
content: Quote from: Stonent on September 15, 2013, 08:44:01 pmSame - Chrome on MacOS.-jbl

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2013, 01:50:20 am
content: Quote from: jasonbrent on September 16, 2013, 12:53:46 amI'm using IE11 beta on Win 8.1. Still the reappearing form.

author: Seg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2013, 06:31:27 am
content: I put in a request. Yeah, there's no apparent confirmation that it went through. Firefox on Win7 here.I guess now we wait...VFDs FTW

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2013, 10:51:17 am
content: I did not get a confirmation page either (Chrome/Win7). As Pedro mentioned, this is probably a first for them and these details usually slip through a user acceptance test (if one was ever done)...

author: JohnnyGringo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2013, 04:20:48 pm
content: I received an email this morning saying they were shipping one out in 5-10 business days.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2013, 04:45:55 pm
content: Sorry, I didn't check in earlier on this. Yeah the weird no confirmation submit is a nuisance but it does go through.I received the aforementioned will ship soon email I think within 48-72hrs after submitting. From there it was 5-7 days until I received the email indicating that they shipped it (note the emails includes a tracking number which is great!). Mine is scheduled for delivery tomorrow or wed.

author: MacAttak
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 17, 2013, 02:44:17 pm
content: I feel special. They actually called me to talk about it a few minutes ago.The "broken" form definitely works

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2013, 05:57:30 pm
content: They did here as well. Told him I was a 15 year old student learning about embedded programming, and done!

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2013, 06:06:49 am
content: OK, I received it today.The box includes:1x VFD 128x32 1u graphic VFD.1x simple wire harness connector (three wires for data and two for power and ground)1x strip of 6 Male-Male headers to connect to a breadboard/arduino/etc.1x spare male connector (but no pins)1x piece blue acrylic filter designed for VFD displays1x Quick setup pamphlet1x Informational sheet detailing the acrylic filtersNow about the hardware. This thing is NICE! Puts any basic LCD I have played with to shame. It's very solidly built, feels very nice in the hand (not that this is important but still), the soldering on it is clean. The device itself is an integrated module which includes all the power circuitry and communications. It can run off of just a 5V and ground. Plus, unlike many cheap ass LCD displays (which require D0-D7) this one only uses three digital lines.If you plan on using it with an Arduino, download both the Arduino library and the file labeled:"Arduino demo files from the video". The Arduino library appears to be generic for at least their GU-7000 series displays. There are a myriad of settings and which ones are important is not explained in the Quick Start pamphlet, let alone what they should be set to. To be honest the configuration section sucks. It tells you that an option should show up that they don't provide the files for. It's VERY VERY clear that this is their first Arduino rodeo. Most of the other stuff on their site is geared more towards AVR Studio, Atmel Studio or Linux. Basically, what I did was I imported the GU-7000 library (you won't get a GU-7003 option unlike what the pamphlet says). Then once that was imported, I used the demo files to play around.As for the included libraries, unlike most which perform the bare minimum; namely, make the display work. These actually provide a good amount of function. They are clearly designed with making interface displays in mind. They provide easy integated features such as creating selectable "windows" of space, highlighting/inverting, scrolling text and graphics, etc. These "windows" of space allow you to dynamically transform that section more easily, without bothering the other areas in the display. Also, on their site they provide tools for creating the image code from bitmaps, jpgs,etc. If you use Atmel or AVR they provide tools for generating entire interfaces.

author: ve7xen
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2013, 06:57:27 am
content: They sell for like $80/per at DigiKey. Very nice. I feel ever so guilty ordering these kinds of things for personal use though...

author: komet
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 18, 2013, 06:58:29 am
content: Not in the USA or Canada, so I requested a quote. Got an email from the local dealership quoting over $200.So even if you have no interest in this you could probably get a good price from eBay from the "international" suckers.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2013, 07:20:05 am
content: Quote from: ve7xen on September 18, 2013, 06:57:27 amWow, you aren't kidding. Digikey lists them at $83.70 each.

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2013, 08:56:52 am
content: I wonder what makes them so expensive... I mean car and home audio equipment has those, cash registers in stores have those quite often. Fook, even my microwave oven has one. And for sure they don't cost $80 (lol, whole microwave oven costed less than that...).What makes this one so expensive?

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2013, 04:37:53 pm
content: What type of shipping do they use? Still haven't gotten my tracking number yet...

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2013, 04:39:12 pm
content: I got the email today.

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 18, 2013, 04:59:24 pm
content: Quote from: poorchava on September 18, 2013, 08:56:52 amI'd say that as some of the last non-obsolete vacuum tubes, they're probably pretty expensive to make in smaller quantities.IIRC VFDs are more reliable over a wide temperature range, hence their use in cars. In household appliances, I've been seeing more and more LED (and occasionally LCD) displays filtered to look like VFDs. I was convinced the display on my DVD player was fluorescent for quite a long time, until I had to open it up the other day and saw a green LED module with a purple-blue filter to give it that cyan color. Are you sure that's really a VFD on your microwave?

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2013, 02:49:42 am
content: Quote from: Stonent on September 18, 2013, 04:39:12 pmReally? What carrier?

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2013, 04:07:58 am
content: Quote from: echen1024 on September 19, 2013, 02:49:42 amTCP/IP?

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2013, 04:16:06 am
content: The carrier is UPS.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 19, 2013, 05:48:01 pm
content: Quote from: Stonent on September 19, 2013, 04:07:58 amthrough SMTP.

author: Seg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 20, 2013, 10:07:10 pm
content: Oooh I got a ship notice too!

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 20, 2013, 10:18:41 pm
content: Yep. Mine shipped yesterday.

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 20, 2013, 11:27:13 pm
content: mine was shipped yesterday too. socant wait

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2013, 12:25:54 am
content: I have a pile of 112x32 Noritake displays (12 or so) I got from some old microwave project my workplace did... I seriously need to think of something to do with them but they look really, really nice when working. Not even OLED looks as good as a good old VFD. I wonder though with 128x32 pixel OLEDs coming on the market at around $10 for similar sizes... how long till VFD is extinct? It's a great technology, but like a plasma display panel, has limitations and is quite power hungry, so I don't see it being around in volume in 10 year's time. Even my new DVD player came with an LED display instead of a VFD.

author: marshallh
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 21, 2013, 03:48:40 am
content: VFD is still popular in industrial applications, along with gas discharge and EL displays. Extreme temps? No problem. Shock? No problem. Humidity? no problem.For something that needs to run 20 years without being turned off, you don't want OLED displays that will crap out in a couple years.

author: Fsck
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2013, 03:50:45 am
content: Looks like mine got shipped UPS but from the US.

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2013, 12:19:40 am
content: Quote from: firehopper on September 20, 2013, 11:27:13 pmgot mine today, hooked it up and downloaded the demo stuff.. works perfectly.

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2013, 12:22:57 am
content: not sure when it was made, the date code on mine is 05J24L firmware F100

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2013, 01:18:41 am
content: Mine is coming tomorrow... Can't wait to get my hands on it

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2013, 01:22:06 am
content: Did you guys get a tracking number somewhere?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2013, 02:20:03 am
content: got mine today.crap. serial interface ... not usable.i want 8 bit parallel interface.

author: jasonbrent
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2013, 11:26:10 pm
content: they called and chatted with me + emailed me saying I will be receiving a tracking # a couple of days ago... still waiting. :-)-jbl

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2013, 11:41:17 pm
content: Ok I got my tracking number today. They just subscribe you to the UPS alerts.

author: liquibyte
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2013, 12:06:58 am
content: I actually recieved one of these without getting a tracking number, it just showed up after a couple of days and an initial confirmation email.

author: Skimask
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2013, 09:08:27 am
content: Same here. Pulled the module out. Wondering what to do with it.Went to throw out the box and found the "extras" in there, a couple cables, some header pins, a "how to use this module" sheet.Pretty damn nice for a freebie...

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2013, 10:29:30 am
content: QuoteYou should've waited, because better stuff is coming...?Still no luck for anyone outside of NA

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2013, 02:00:38 pm
content: Is it possible to use these with Linux? I just hooked this up to an Arduino, and it works perfectly. I want to try it with a Rasoberry Pi.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2013, 06:50:34 pm
content: Quote from: echen1024 on September 25, 2013, 02:00:38 pmAs long as you can replicate the signals and the VFD accepts 3.3v signals, it should work. You'll have to power it externally I'm sure because it would most likely not get enough power from the Pi and potentially damage the Pi.

author: edavid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2013, 01:53:47 pm
content: Quote from: marshallh on September 21, 2013, 03:48:40 amVFDs get dim and blotchy after much less than 20 years of use... you can confirm this by looking at an old Fluke 8840A...

author: Fsck
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2013, 02:10:37 pm
content: Looks like there's a SCK-7000-140X32F-N30-C kit now.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2013, 02:31:06 pm
content: Gaahhh crap.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2013, 03:29:04 pm
content: Got mine. Haven't powered it up yet but the quality looks really good.

author: Seg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 30, 2013, 02:50:29 am
content: VFDs burn out with use. They're phosphor, like a CRT. I had a cheapo bookshelf stereo my wife won in a raffle we used as TV speakers, displaying AUX on the VFD the whole time. Never used for anything else. After 5+ years, if you switched it to something else, the AUX segments had gone noticeably dim, and the rest were bright and like-new.

author: marshallh
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 30, 2013, 05:33:11 am
content: I know a guy that designs with these VFDs, he added a 1pixel shift every few hours to spread out the burn-in over a large area.Lecroy 93xx does the same with their CRTs

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 30, 2013, 06:16:02 am
content: Played around with it today, the examples are alright and the screen is night and bright. The arduino lib gives you a command called vfd.print that lets you write to it using the standard font, but you can change fonts too.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 30, 2013, 06:23:01 am
content: Here's the Arduino bitmap scroll demo

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 30, 2013, 07:39:21 am
content: Quote from: marshallh on September 30, 2013, 05:33:11 amSo that's why... I had a device that did this and thought it was some sort of firmware bug.

author: ishelly404
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2013, 03:14:48 am
content: I got mine today and when I was looking for the software library, I noticed that they have another module available as a sample. This one is 140x32 instead of 128x32 and supports RS-232 voltages as well.They even say if you are using it for hobby use to put "self" for company and "hobby" for industry.

author: Seg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2013, 07:37:12 am
content: Put in for a 140x32 as well whoo.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2013, 04:05:51 pm
content: Can you put in 2 orders?

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2013, 10:45:56 pm
content: I got my 140x32 as well today.. too bad I cant get it to respond..Not sure what I'm doing wrong..I have it hooked up properly, and set the jumpers to 115200 baud and changed the arduino codeusing the serial input.set the module size to 140,32and the model number to 7000 since thats what my module is. Now I'm wondering, I dont know how to invert the serial data line. but supposedly the 7000 is the rs232 voltage module. so does using this on a arduino not going to work? supposedly also its expecting a inverted serial stream.anyone have a idea?

author: chrisbrown
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2013, 11:32:26 pm
content: The datasheet specifies V_IL from -15 to +0.5V and V_IH from +3.0 to +15V so you should be fine with the Arduino's voltages.I agree you probably need inverted signalling but it seems to be taken care of by setting the model number. In GU7000_Serial_Async.h:Code:if(getModelClass==7003 || getModelClass==7903) {_inverse_logic = 0;RAISE(OUT);}else{_inverse_logic = 1;LOWER(OUT);}I've had success with the 128x32 module; I'll report back if I can get the 140x32 to work.

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2013, 10:09:38 am
content: yeah let us know, anyone able to use the parallel interface to work? I'm not sure how to hook it up there either.the 128x32 looks like it has the same parallel interface as well.. but not sure how to use it.anyone else notice the other jumpers that arent mentioned in the manual? j2 and j3, BT and RW

author: chrisbrown
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2013, 08:16:00 pm
content: It works! Give this a try:Code:#include <GU7000_Interface.h>#include <GU7000_Serial_Async.h>#include <Noritake_VFD_GU7000.h>GU7000_Serial_Async interface(38400, 2, 3, 4); // BAUD,SIN,BUSY,RESETNoritake_VFD_GU7000 vfd;void setup() {Serial.begin(115200);vfd.begin(140, 32); // 140x32 modulevfd.interface(interface); // select which interface to usevfd.isModelClass(7000); // select display modelvfd.GU7000_reset(); // reset modulevfd.GU7000_init(); // initialize module_delay_ms(100); // wait for device to power upvfd.print("Hello World!");}void loop() {}

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2013, 12:04:11 am
content: nope that didnt work for my 7000, either there is something with my lib's or something else is wrong.. if I change the 7000 to 7003 it works on my 128x32not sure what is going on, I'm thinking it might be my 7000 libs.I'll redownload em and see if that improves things

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 19, 2013, 06:00:09 pm
content: got the bigger display working, it was a combination of trying to run it at 115200, at the jumper settings in the manual, and the manuals mix up of the reset and busy line..now that its back to factory default of 38400 and the sbusy and reset lines are swapped.. it works great

author: iceisfun
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2013, 10:21:18 pm
content: Applied for a sample, I am interested in playing with these VFD displays.Thanks for the tip.

author: MacAttak
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 23, 2013, 11:58:19 pm
content: I have both and had no problem getting the 140x32 one working, but so far haven't been able to get anything but gibberish on the 128x32 module. And that's only when swapping the busy/reset pins (if I leave them the "correct" way then I get nothing on the screen output). The two modules use exactly the same serial pinout and the cable is exactly the same between them, so it should be working.Might try removing those solder jumpers to drop the speed of the 128x32 down to 38400.

author: liquibyte
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2013, 01:36:22 am
content: Quote from: MacAttak on October 23, 2013, 11:58:19 pmI had this issue at first as well. I believe that I had the wrong library at first, their site is kind of confusing to navigate.

author: MacAttak
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 24, 2013, 01:55:21 am
content: The library is different between the two modules?

author: chrisbrown
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2013, 02:24:59 am
content: Using the out-of-the-box configuration, you need to use 115200 baud for the 128x32 and 38400 baud for the 140x32. Don't confuse it with the USB serial baud rate; that's independent.The library is the same but you need to set the dimensions and model number (7000 or 7003) in your setup() routine.

author: MacAttak
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 24, 2013, 02:59:46 am
content: Yeah, I was doing all of that.Here is what was actually wrong (in case anyone else has this trouble):The order of function calls while initializing the display module is important (unless you are using the 7000, which is what the library defaults to). You need to call interface() FIRST, before calling isModelClass().The sample code does the opposite (by "sample code", I am talking about when you go to File..Examples..GU7000 menu in Arduino after installing the library). So that sample code works with the larger 7000 module because the constructor for the class defaults to that one. For all other modules, you need to make sure to call interface() first otherwise you will get garbage output from the driver.The sample project code (a separate download) is written correctly and does not have this problem. It is only an issue with the installed sample templates.

author: liquibyte
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2013, 03:52:28 am
content: Quote from: MacAttak on October 24, 2013, 02:59:46 amYeah, that's it. I was thinking it was the library but the sample code is different by just enough to gum up the works.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2013, 01:32:39 am
content: The example is written quite badly if you ask me.To make it work:as MacAttack said, reverse the order of the isModelClass and the vfd.interface. It must call vfd.interface BEFORE vfd.isModelClassAlso, BUSY and RESET are mixed up. If using it on Arduino pins, the pin config should be set to 2, 6, 4, with Baud rate of 115200. 38400 WILL NOT WORK!

author: macboy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2013, 01:56:03 am
content: Quote from: echen1024 on October 25, 2013, 01:32:39 amThe default baud rate for the 128x32 display is 115200. For the 140x32 display (the currently available one) the default is 38400. On the 140x32, the baud rate can be set to 1 of 4 presets with jumpers. I'm not certain about the 128x32 one.

author: MacAttak
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 25, 2013, 03:17:02 am
content: They both have the same jumpers. But on the 128x32 module jumpers 0 and 1 are closed with a bead of solder, and that puts it into 115200 baud mode. On the 140x32 module none of the jumpers are closed, which sets it to 38400.The pins worked the same for me on both - nothing was wrong with the reset/busy. I used pins 2, 3, and 4 of my Uno just as described in the sample instructions.

author: iceisfun
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2013, 09:21:44 pm
content: These things work awesome!Adding $80 to the BOM is a lot, you can get a pretty nice TFT setup for less money so it seems like its just for getting that classic VFD look.

author: Fsck
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2013, 12:54:22 am
content: Quote from: iceisfun on October 29, 2013, 09:21:44 pmVFDs also have advantages in extreme weather. These are rated for -40C through 85C

author: Greyersting
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2013, 01:18:02 am
content: I feel bad about leeching off free samples but not bad enough to not leech off free samples

author: v1rt
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2013, 04:09:01 am
content: Hi folks,I really need your help. I'm new to electronics but I can follow instructions well. I received my Noritake 7003B. I'm reading the documentation specifically the pinout on CN2. I'm a bit confused as to what pin on 7003 goes to which pins on my Arduino UNO.Here is what I think the connection should bePin 1 connects to 5v+ on UNOPin 2 which is SIN, I don't know where it goesPin 3 connects to GND on UNOPin 4 connects to a digital pin on UNOPin 5 is not usedPin 6 connects to the RESET pin on UNOCan someone please correct it?Thanks a lot!V1rt

author: v1rt
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2013, 06:57:52 am
content: I'm good now.

author: Greyersting
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2013, 01:05:39 pm
content: Quote from: v1rt on October 31, 2013, 06:57:52 amCan you post the solution for other people who may be having that problem?

author: macboy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2013, 03:57:44 pm
content: Quote from: echen1024 on October 25, 2013, 01:32:39 amThe /Reset and /Busy lines are not mixed up. /Reset is pin 6; /Busy is pin 4.HOWEVER you must note that on the 140x32 display (GU140X32F-7000) the signals are "Not Reset" and "Not Busy" (which is why I wrote /Busy instead of Busy). They are negative logic or Active Low. That means that a low voltage means Reset (or Busy) and a high voltage means Not Reset (or Not Busy). I strongly suspect that you and macattak have overlooked that. For most applications, you do not need to connect the /Reset signal, and it can be left floating to allow the module to operate normally. The /Busy can be used to ensure that you do not over-run the serial receive buffer while the module is busy doing other things (the buffer is only 12 bytes long FYI).On the 128x32 display (GU128X32D-7003), SBUSY is Active High and Reset is Active Low.For reliable operation with a microcontroller, you should connect the /Busy to an input on your micro, and only send data while that pin is HIGH. For operation with a PC RS-232, you can connect the /Busy to the CTS handshaking line. This will prevent the PC from sending data while the module is busy. Take care to note the polarity of the signal... The RS-232 port exects a 'positive' voltage to mean "clear to send", but at TTL/logic level, the CTS line is negated so that "Low" is "clear to send".In my case I am using a USB-RS232 (RS-232 levels, not TTL level) converter with the 140x32 display. The serial and CTS lines are connected directly from the DB-9 connector to the SIN and /BUSY lines, and this works fine for me. (Note that not all USB-RS232 converters will necessarily interpret a "zero" volt signal as equivalent to a negative voltage one). Without the CTS line used, the module will drop characters in certain cases. With the CTS line, this never happens.

author: v1rt
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 01:29:32 am
content: I noticed that even if only pin 1, 2 and 3 of the VFD 7003 are connected to my Arduino, it will still work.However, even if all 5 wires are connected to my Arduino, my VFD dies once my stepper motor starts.What is the fix for this? Looks like my VFD is not getting enough voltage once the stepper motor starts. Stepper motor is sucking it! Is there an electronic part that I can add to prevent this from happening?Again, my vfd configuration is really simple. I directly connected CN2 pins of 7003 to my Arduino.VFD 7003ARDUINO UNOPin15v+ on breadboard which is also connected to 5v+ on UNOPin2Connected to pin12 on UNO right now.Pin3GNDPin4connected to pin8 on UNOPin5not usedPin6Connected to pin A5 on UNOThis is how I am initializing it.GU7000_Serial_Async interface(9600, 12, 8, A5); // BAUD,SIN,BUSY,RESETAny help would be greatly appreciated.

author: v1rt
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 01:31:37 am
content: Quote from: Greyersting on October 31, 2013, 01:05:39 pmThis code worked for me.#include <GU7000_Interface.h>#include <GU7000_Parallel.h>#include <GU7000_Serial_Async.h>#include <GU7000_Serial_SPI.h>#include <GU7000_Serial_Sync.h>#include <Noritake_VFD_GU7000.h>GU7000_Serial_Async interface(9600, 12, 8, A5); // BAUD,SIN,BUSY,RESETNoritake_VFD_GU7000 vfd;void setup() {_delay_ms(1000); // wait for device to power upSerial.begin(9600);vfd.begin(140, 32); // 140x32 modulevfd.interface(interface); // select which interface to usevfd.isModelClass(7003); // select display modelvfd.GU7000_reset(); // reset modulevfd.GU7000_init(); // initialize module_delay_ms(1000); // wait for device to power upvfd.GU7000_setCursor(0, 0);vfd.print("test1");vfd.GU7000_setCursor(120,;vfd.print("test2");vfd.GU7000_setCursor(137, 16);vfd.print("test3");vfd.GU7000_setCursor(110, 24);vfd.print("test4");}void loop(){}

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 01:36:36 am
content: I see a few problems. The 140x32 module is the 7000 series, and the 128x32 is the 7003. 9600 baud will not work on the VFD. It must be 38400 for the 7000 or 115200 for the 7003.

author: v1rt
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 03:52:05 am
content: Quote from: echen1024 on November 01, 2013, 01:36:36 amWrong. Mine is 7003B and I am using 9600. I have to short J1 pin to be able to use 9600. If I want 115200, J0 and J1 should be shorted. My 7003B is also 140x32. For the 7003, it is working great with 9600 but a bit flaky when using 115,200. Noritake told me to add vfd.isGeneration('B'); but it didn't help making it stable.

author: macboy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 01:04:04 pm
content: Quote from: v1rt on November 01, 2013, 03:52:05 amAre you checking the busy flag before sending data, or just blasting it at the display and expecting it to work?

author: macboy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 03:10:36 pm
content: Quote from: v1rt on November 01, 2013, 01:29:32 amYour power supply may be too noisy for the VFD. You can try adding power supply decoupling to the VFD. Add a fairly large (say 100 to 220 µF) capacitor between V+ and GND right at the VFD module. Also ensure that the power supply is decoupled at your microcontroller and at the driver (the H-bridge or FETs) for the stepper motor. If the power supply voltage is sagging to a voltage too low for the VFD you will need to use a stronger (higher current) supply, or use a separate supply for the motor.If you are picking up switching noise from the stepper, that is harder to deal with. Ensure that the power supply wires for the VFD are a twisted pair, and the SIG (serial signal) is also a twisted pair with a ground wire. you could try adding a ferrite choke to the wire harness close to the VFD. Stepper motors aren't as bad as brushed motors for noise, but they have their own unique noise issues, depending on how you drive them.

author: v1rt
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 04:33:48 pm
content: Quote from: macboy on November 01, 2013, 01:04:04 pmThat's what Noritake told me too. However, I am not really sure how to check it. I'm new to electronics. How do I check it in Arduino? Do I check BUSY if it's HIGH or LOW? Please guide me. Thanks!

author: v1rt
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 04:56:47 pm
content: Quote from: macboy on November 01, 2013, 03:10:36 pmThis is awesome!!! However, since I'm new to electronics, it will be hard for me to understand and implement but I will do my best.So last night before I saw your post, I already added 100uF on V+ and GND. The VFD still turn off. When I press a button, the menu shows up in the VFD like .5 seconds only. I checked the voltage where the VFD is connected, it was only 4.16v when motor is running. That tells me that my battery isn't strong enough. However, I was wondering why the same battery worked for my friend's VFD 7000 in my own setup. The difference is that he brought in a breadboard with few parts in it. I do not recall since I didn't pay attention to it. He connected the wires from the VFD to that breadboard he brought. Then he only asked me for 1 digital input pin on Arduino. He also asked me where the 5v+ was on my breadboard.QuoteI was using 1 thin solid 22 or 24g wire taken from a ethernet cable.QuoteI don't understand this one. I hope you can make a drawing for me. I want to know which pins it will be connected.

author: macboy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 05:16:58 pm
content: Quote from: v1rt on November 01, 2013, 04:33:48 pmOn the 140x32 (7000 series), the SBUSY signal is negative logic (i.e. an active low signal), so a high voltage means "Ready" and low voltage means "Busy". On the 128x32 display, the opposite is true; it is active high, so the signal is high for "busy" and low for "Ready".From the datasheet:"Data can be stored into receiving buffer. However, it recommends not sending the data when SBUSY=1."("It recommends" is just awkward Japanese->English translation, read it as "We recommend". Also note that "SBUSY=1" does not imply a high voltage; i.e. with negative logic, a 'Low' is a '1').Since there is a 12 byte receiving buffer, you can burst up to 12 bytes of data to the display after ensuring it is "Ready". Then you should wait for the SBUSY signal to indicate "Ready" again.Quote from: v1rt on November 01, 2013, 04:56:47 pmLook at the datasheet, section 2.2, Electrical Ratings. Minimum power supply voltage = 4.75 V.QuoteGoogle "Snap on ferrite". Put one of those over all the wires coming from the display, close to the display. May or may not help, it depends on how noisy the environment is and how long the wires are. The ferrite helps prevent the wires from acting like antennas. Fix the power supply issue first.

author: v1rt
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2013, 03:29:15 am
content: I found the culprit why VFD was turning off. The voltage was dropping below the minimum required by 7003. Now I am powering it again with 12v with no issues of turning off. However, I saw another culprit. The regulator of the Arduino UNO is heating up so quickly.The regulator is the 2 silver tiny circles near the barrel jack. I removed the VFD from the circuit and retested everything, regulator stopped heating up. If I'm going to use the VFD again, what can I do to prevent the heating up from happening?

author: v1rt
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2013, 03:57:17 am
content: Quote from: v1rt on November 02, 2013, 03:29:15 amHere is an update. I added a 100uF and 100nF on the pin1 and GND of vfd. The regulator of UNO still heated up. I removed the vfd and regulator on UNO didn't heat up anymore.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2013, 04:26:40 am
content: Try an external power source...

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2013, 05:28:44 am
content: Quote from: StevenWhitney on November 02, 2013, 05:11:37 amThis round of samples just ended yesterday.

author: Fsck
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2013, 05:42:56 am
content: at the pace that they're releasing eval kits, all my projects might end up using Noritake VFDs

author: v1rt
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2013, 08:03:18 am
content: Quote from: echen1024 on November 02, 2013, 04:26:40 amYup. That's what I did. It's good now.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2013, 08:47:03 am
content: Quote from: Fsck on November 02, 2013, 05:42:56 amI just thought they were substituting for the first batch that ran out. I didn't realize they're purposely releasing different kits.But at the price they're charging for these via retail channels I think an eval kit is as far as anyone's going to get.Quote

author: jwm
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 05, 2013, 03:27:30 pm
content: Got mine. It is beautiful! It can easily run directly from your computers USB with an ftdi cable and an inverter. (74hc14 etc.)Connect power directly to the ftdi cable then connect TXD through the inverter to the serial in pin, then the sbusy through another inverter to the CTS# pin. Then you can just type at it via any serial program (minicom or screen or even just catting to /dev/ttyUSB0 under Linux)Set 38400 baud and turn on hardware flow control.No need for a library, just send the codes you want directly.

author: macboy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2013, 01:25:45 pm
content: Quote from: Stonent on November 02, 2013, 08:47:03 amIf you look at their "sample" order site (not sample as in free, but sample as in single-quantity rather production quantity), they have a few discontinued displays at a discount. They start at $18 which is not bad IMHO.http://noritake-vfd.com/andhttp://noritake-vfd.com/discount.aspx

author: KD0CAC John
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2013, 02:34:38 pm
content: Just got the shipping notice in email this morning .The other day a local sales rep called , because I used a PO box .Had a long conversation , I mentioned I found the link for sample here .One display and many projects to go in

author: jwm
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2013, 11:57:01 pm
content: Quote from: StevenWhitney on November 06, 2013, 09:33:44 pmYes. the inverter is neccesary, However, if you have access to a real serial port or USB->Serial converter you can just wire it up directly to the DB9 connector. The reason the inverter is needed is that rs232 uses +10V to mean zero and -10V to mean one.Here is the schematic I used, a 4001 will work just as well as will any other chip that can work as an inverter.

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2013, 11:15:39 am
content: Quote from: jwm on November 07, 2013, 11:57:01 pmalso a simple npn transistor and 2 resistors will work as well..1K and 10k ohm resistors.

author: jwm
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2013, 11:48:20 am
content: Quote from: firehopper on November 08, 2013, 11:15:39 amYup, pull out a handful from your junk parts bin and I bet you can find a dozen ways to create inverters out of whatever you findI happen to have like fifty 4011s to use up or I would have used a dedicated inverter or 2n7000 transistors (which I also have a bigger barrel of than 2n3904s).

author: KD0CAC John
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2013, 10:15:26 pm
content: I just got mine UPS today looks good , I'l post some pictures when I get a chance .Phone is almost discharged and I do not have the charge cable with me

author: KD0CAC John
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2013, 03:00:25 pm
content: The photos are not what I would like , just using iphone ,It would seem that I have seen lots of high def. pic's posted , and the site says my iphone pic's are too large ?

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 10, 2013, 02:07:06 am
content: I am really feeling idiotic right now. I have followed through this thread and CANNOT get anything to show other than the occasional letter alpha on the 140x32 VFD. My 128x32 VFD was a piece of cake.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 10, 2013, 05:20:04 am
content: Quote from: StevenWhitney on November 10, 2013, 05:04:36 amYep, here is the code that I tried.#include <GU7000_Interface.h>#include <GU7000_Parallel.h>#include <GU7000_Serial_Async.h>#include <GU7000_Serial_SPI.h>#include <GU7000_Serial_Sync.h>#include <Noritake_VFD_GU7000.h>// ****************************************************// ****************************************************// Uncomment one of the communication interfaces below.//GU7000_Serial_Async interface(38400, 10, 9,; // BAUD RATE,SIN,BUSY,RESET//GU7000_Serial_Sync interface(3, 5, 6, 7); // SIN,BUSY,SCK,RESET//GU7000_Serial_SPI interface(3, 5, 6, 7,; // SIN,BUSY,SCK,RESET,CS//GU7000_Parallel interface('R', 8,9,10,11, 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7); // Module Pin#3=RESET; BUSY,RESET,WR,RD,D0-D7//GU7000_Parallel interface('B', 8,9,10,11, 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7); // Module Pin#3=BUSY; BUSY,RESET,WR,RD,D0-D7//GU7000_Parallel interface('N', 8,9,10,11, 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7); // Module Pin#3=nothing; BUSY,RESET,WR,RD,D0-D7//// ****************************************************// ****************************************************Noritake_VFD_GU7000 vfd;void setup() {_delay_ms(500); // wait for device to power upvfd.begin(140, 32); // 140x16 module// Enter the 4-digit model class number// E.g. 7040 for GU140X16G-7040Avfd.interface(interface);vfd.isModelClass(7000);//vfd.isGeneration('B'); // Uncomment this for B generation// select which interface to usevfd.GU7000_reset(); // reset modulevfd.GU7000_init(); // initialize modulevfd.GU7000_setFontSize(1,1,false); // 1x1 normal fontvfd.print("1x1");vfd.GU7000_setFontSize(2,2,false); // 2x2 tall & wide fontvfd.print("2x2");vfd.GU7000_setFontSize(3,2,false); // 3x2 wide fontvfd.print("3x2");}void loop() {}I don't know if anyone can spot what I'm doing wrong.

author: macboy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 10, 2013, 01:40:00 pm
content: Quote from: PedroDaGr8 on November 10, 2013, 05:20:04 amDid you invert the data?The 140x32 display is intended to be used with RS-232 levels (not logic levels). It is compatible with logic level signals, but the trick is that RS-232 is inverted. This is explained in the datasheet.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 10, 2013, 08:18:22 pm
content: OK that makes some sense. Could I use a 74HC14 to perform the inverting function? I have one on a scrap board that I could use.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2013, 10:16:55 pm
content: By the way, anyone who received a sample check your email box for a survey. You can get another free sample by filling out the survey. The largest is a massive 512x32 but there are some character ones as well. They are first come first serve.

author: jwm
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2013, 11:08:07 pm
content: The evaluation kit worked on me. I bought 3 more VFDs from them because of it and am jazzing up some of my older hd44780 projects with them. So much more readable.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2013, 11:25:53 pm
content: Quote from: PedroDaGr8 on November 22, 2013, 10:16:55 pmI got a few characters. I don't need another graphical.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 23, 2013, 03:23:27 am
content: In the comments section I put that these displays are about 2 to 3 times as much as I'd be willing to pay out of my own pocket to own one.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 23, 2013, 03:56:08 am
content: Quote from: Stonent on November 23, 2013, 03:23:27 amYea, these VFDS are bloody expensive. However, they just look so nice

author: jwm
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2013, 08:17:04 am
content: Quote from: echen1024 on November 23, 2013, 03:56:08 amThey come up cheaply and new on ebay occasionally, though there are always a lot of super expensive ones listed if you need an exact specific model. I got a few graphical ones very similar to the sample for < $20 each.

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 16, 2013, 09:27:59 pm
content: well I got a email from noritake today after I have filled out the the survey/sample thing. and apparently I'm getting one of the 512x32 vfds in a few weeks.. neat!I think it would go good with a 3d printer

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 16, 2013, 11:09:16 pm
content: Quote from: firehopper on December 16, 2013, 09:27:59 pmLucky. I'm getting a 20x2 character display. At least its UART.

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 19, 2013, 06:02:39 pm
content: my vfd was shipped, should arrive friday sometime.

author: Chankster
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 20, 2013, 12:43:01 am
content: Pictures of the 512x32. Its impressive how large it is.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 20, 2013, 04:03:28 am
content: I don't remember what I asked for but the part number is SCK-7003-112X16G-01 so I guess 112x16?

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 20, 2013, 04:26:51 am
content: Quote from: Stonent on December 20, 2013, 04:03:28 amyou should have received an email letting you know what you will be receivingSent from my EVO using Tapatalk

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 20, 2013, 06:43:26 am
content: Quote from: PedroDaGr8 on December 20, 2013, 04:26:51 amThey said I'd be receiving part number SCK-7003-112x16G-01.Quote

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 20, 2013, 05:53:45 pm
content: got my 512x32 and its impressively huge yesits also power hungry5volt 50ma and 24 volt 300 magetting it working is going to have to wait till I have the plugs and the power supply..

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 20, 2013, 06:00:31 pm
content: So jealous to see you guys getting this free vfd and yes, its for personal/hobbyist grade use only to be honest.Is there anyone willing to do me a favor by selling his/hersoulemail in helping me getting one of this, please ?

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 20, 2013, 08:53:30 pm
content: PM me.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 20, 2013, 11:51:22 pm
content: Spec sheets and what not for the 512x32http://www.noritake-elec.com/feedback/GU512X32H-SPEC.html

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 20, 2013, 11:59:33 pm
content: make sure the datasheets you get are for the 3900 and not the 3940 unless yours is a 3940. the 3900 is the one without the leds.and the connectors and stuff are differnt on them..

author: MacAttak
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 21, 2013, 06:38:33 am
content: I got the 512x32 today too as well and my immediate reaction was "holy shit this thing is WAY bigger than I expected!"This is the third VFD they have sent me so far. I feel like I should go buy something from them just to clear my conscience - they've been awesomely generous with these.

author: Avien
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2013, 08:05:10 pm
content: I've got mine today 140x32.Perfect gift for ChristmasThank you guys for this info

author: ElektroQuark
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 23, 2013, 08:10:01 pm
content: In Poland?

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2013, 08:47:18 pm
content: Quote from: EdoNork on December 23, 2013, 08:10:01 pmProbably used a reshipper.

author: Avien
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2013, 09:59:51 pm
content: Quote from: echen1024 on December 23, 2013, 08:47:18 pmCompany send me SCK-7000-140X32F-N30-C from Germany, by POST.And this gift is for me

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 26, 2013, 07:10:29 pm
content: Got my GU512X32H-3703 today. Mother of God this thing is huge. You could likely cover the front of a rack mount case with this thing.Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 26, 2013, 10:01:08 pm
content: I got mine today. Unfortunately this one didn't have any headers like the other one. It was just the base module and a blue piece of plastic.

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 26, 2013, 11:18:08 pm
content: just got a email from noritake. new module they are offering..http://www.noritake-elec.com/evalkit-sample.php#contactForm24 characters by 6 rows.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 27, 2013, 05:08:29 am
content: I feel like I should buy some for use in projects, but they are so bloody expensive.

author: Seg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 27, 2013, 10:44:30 pm
content: Just got a GU512x32H in the mail. OMG it is HUGE!! It's as wide as my laptop! What am I gonna do with this thing....

author: Avien
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 28, 2013, 11:45:04 am
content: Yesterday I wrote to Noritake about their new sample (24x6 character display) with 3.3V logic version.And their reply me if I want 140X32F dot matrix display (previous one) with 3.3V logic

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 28, 2013, 04:51:03 pm
content: Well, they ran out of the 512x32 so they gave me a MASSIVE 20x2 character.

author: edavid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2014, 11:42:15 pm
content: I noticed that the 50% off sale has been extended to January 19. That makes their prices pretty reasonable, although still not as cheap as eBay LCDs.

author: AmericanLocomotive
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2014, 06:00:55 pm
content: Yeah, but they're way better than any e-bay LCD display could ever hope to be.

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2014, 08:15:19 pm
content: Is there any email to apply for samples to the UK?

author: Avien
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 06, 2014, 02:19:57 am
content: Quote from: tom66 on January 05, 2014, 08:15:19 pmJust contact them via "contact form" (right top corner) and ask about sample you need.

author: MatCat
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2014, 06:34:26 pm
content: Got my 24x6 sample today, man this thing is a beauty! They sampled out 512x32?! Where the hell was I for that one!!!

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2014, 07:32:34 pm
content: http://www.flickr.com/photos/firehopper/11466619135/#512x32, 128x32 and 140x32with a mega as a comparison for sizehttp://www.flickr.com/photos/firehopper/11504112486/#backside of the 512x32

author: MatCat
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2014, 07:42:31 pm
content: It's display porn! Screw the color filters, these things look awesome without them. That 512x is crazy...

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2014, 12:59:28 am
content: the 512 was one of the free samples before the 24x6

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2014, 01:07:08 am
content: Quote from: firehopper on January 24, 2014, 12:59:28 amTo be fair it was a free sample with a survey. To get invited to the survey you had to get one of the previous samples.

author: Fsck
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2014, 01:16:26 am
content: Quote from: PedroDaGr8 on January 24, 2014, 01:07:08 amthink there was only like 20 of them given out as well. it's also hilariously huge.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2014, 04:46:14 pm
content: Yep, its back again.This time you get to chose between a 114x16 graphic display or a 16x2 character display.The 16x2 is HD44780 compatible making it very easy to retrofit into existing code.http://www.noritake-elec.com/evalkit-sample.php

author: Po6ept
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2014, 05:42:51 am
content: They're out of the 144x16 dot matrix. It would have been my first choice. A lot of others were obviously of the same opinion.

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2014, 03:11:37 pm
content: anyway, anyone managed to get the 512x32 working on a arduino? I have the 3900 version and I dont think I can use the uart port easily with the arduino, since its expecting rs232 levels. I'd have to pick off the signal after the rs232 chip I think.. , so anyone done parallel with thiers yet? or any of the other vfd's? (apparently they all have parallel interfaces, just not any headers in them.

author: macboy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 20, 2014, 04:00:33 pm
content: Quote from: firehopper on February 19, 2014, 03:11:37 pmYou can use it with a microcontroller (including Arduino) without needing a RS232 level converter. It is RS232 compatible/tolerant but is also fine with TTL voltage levels. The important thing to remember is that "RS232" serial is inverted from "TTL" level serial, so a level converter chip like a MAX232 takes a Hi (5V) and converts that to a negative voltage (~ -10V) and takes a Lo (0V) and converts that to a positive voltage (~ 10 V) on the RS232 side. So when using this display with a micro (and without a level converter) you need to invert the TTL serial signal. Some micros have a register that you can configure the serial output to be inverted. Otherwise, you need an external circuit. Also don't forget that you should use the BUSY signal or monitor the input buffer levels for reliable operation; don't just blast a continuous stream of bytes at it and expect that it will always keep up. It won't.

author: veryevil
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 20, 2014, 09:04:27 pm
content: Wow I'd love one of those 512px displays but I'm in the UKbet the RRP is ridiculous!

author: gmb42
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 21, 2014, 11:13:36 am
content: Quote from: veryevil on February 20, 2014, 09:04:27 pmFrom the UK NoritakesiteEUR 217.98 ex VAT.I got my 140px display from a Canadian colleague via the free sample offer.After I downloaded the data sheet, the UK folks emailed me with updated price and availability and seem to be quite helpful, maybe drop them a line?

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2014, 05:59:03 am
content: Anyone with the GU112x16G-7003 figured out what the 14 pin connector (CN1), 3 pin (CN2) or the RCB connector is for?The datasheet as far as I can tell only mentions the 6 pin CN3 connector for serial input.

author: gmb42
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 25, 2014, 10:04:36 am
content: For my 140x32, CN1is for the parallel interface and the RCB block is for jumpering serial baud rate and some pin behaviour. Should all be in the appropriate datasheet.I don't know what CN3 is for.

author: veryevil
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 26, 2014, 10:55:51 pm
content: I'm guessing no one who got a 512 one would like to sell?

author: ahnuts72
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 26, 2014, 11:23:04 pm
content: How are everyone getting these I tried three times and nothing?Sent from my CM11 Nook HD+

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 27, 2014, 06:32:41 pm
content: Quote from: Stonent on February 25, 2014, 05:59:03 amRCB: Select between parallel interface reset input and busy output. I leave it on RESET.CN1: 8 bit parallel - I would recommend using the serial 115200 baud because it's fast enough for most uses unless you want to play a movie on itShort J1/J0 for 115,200 baud, one start one stop no parity positive logic.Leave everything else O/C.It will work with 3.3V logic, and down to 4.2V on the 5V line so in theory you could run it on 3~4xAA but you'd probably have a short battery life! Current consumption is more or less flat with reducing supply voltage, most of the power is used in the heater filaments.I have working code for STM32 for a GU7002, which should be compatible, if you need any help.Full reference for GU7002:https://www.spezial.com/doc/norita/gu112x16g-7002.pdfBTW, for a quick test, you can basically throw it delayed characters (one every 50ms) over serial and it will print them in the default font. For faster data, you should check the SBUSY line while writing data, which tells you when VFD can accept data. I have got graphics working too, this is for my 2nd year University project.These displays are gorgeous! I got a box of 20 of them from my workplace - excess stock

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2014, 03:54:50 pm
content: Up for sample this time is not a VFD. A 4x3 Capacitive touch solution. Only 50 available.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2014, 03:59:51 pm
content: Quote from: echen1024 on March 13, 2014, 03:54:50 pmseems like an interesting way to add touch capability to a 4.7" lcd panel

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2014, 04:18:46 pm
content: Quote from: PedroDaGr8 on March 13, 2014, 03:59:51 pmYes. For like coffee machines. Add a standard LCD panel, display the options.

author: tjb1
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2014, 05:43:55 pm
content: Quote from: echen1024 on March 13, 2014, 03:54:50 pmWhere is the sample? The only thing I see is the expired February one.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2014, 05:45:03 pm
content: Quote from: tjb1 on March 13, 2014, 05:43:55 pmhttp://www.noritake-elec.com/touchswitch-sample.php

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2014, 05:49:07 pm
content: By the way the sample program says:If you reside outside of US and Canada and interested in Touch Switch sample, please fill out the form and fill in your specification in the comment box.

author: Avien
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2014, 06:48:49 pm
content: Quote from: PedroDaGr8 on March 13, 2014, 05:49:07 pmSo? Just contact them using "Contact us" in right top corner. I used this way when you could get VFD display.

author: KD0CAC John
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2014, 06:17:33 pm
content: Got a 2nd phone call , the 1st was after getting the 140x32 , talked for a while , the guy was local to me MNGot a 2nd one yesterday to see if the latest sample had arrived , just got back from the PO , nothing yetNow the issues are which of several projects get the displays .There are some projects like displays on existing gear is no longer available and finding a match / replacement .Like a couple of ham radios Yaesu FT-897D and Icom IC-756 .

author: PointyOintment
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2014, 12:25:09 pm
content: The current sample page ishere, for anybody searching for it. It's a 140 x 32-pixel, 98 x 60-mm VFD.Noritake is also having a spring sale. 50% off everything (?) in theirstoreuntil April 10th if you use the coupon code on the homepage.

author: neslekkim
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2014, 02:20:05 pm
content: Quote from: PointyOintment on March 26, 2014, 12:25:09 pmdamn: "available for United States and Canada only."

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2014, 07:34:00 pm
content: Quote from: neslekkim on March 26, 2014, 02:20:05 pmAs has been mentioned previously. They often ship in Europe if you just use the Contact Us link.

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2014, 11:13:08 pm
content: I tried the contact link twice previously and had not a dicky bird from them either time.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2014, 05:26:19 pm
content: For those that got the 512x32 sample. Noritake is offering a chance to review the display and then get a free Lantronix Xport LAN module for communicating with the display over TCP/IPhttp://forum.noritake-elec.com/post/sck3900512x32h01-6866623

author: Fsck
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 26, 2014, 09:25:34 am
content: it's a sexy, sexy module. kinda seems like we're all thinking similarly.

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 26, 2014, 11:23:50 am
content: QuoteThat issoannoying. I wouldlurveone of those displays, and only last week designed a new project which requires a graphic display on the end of some TCP/IP string, but hell is going to freeze over before Noritake deign to respond with even a 'bugger off' reply to my queries.On the other hand, here in the UK we get the cheap shipping option from TopLoser

author: KD0CAC John
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 09:00:18 pm
content: I got one of the earlier displays and that came with a bunch of support , data sheets and different colored covers , headers etc.Then a month + ago saw another sample offering , thought it may have been another display because of the multiple sizes being talked about .So responded to a more recent offering and then had several emails / calls asking if I received it yet and sent back multiple no's .Well then one of the local reps said he'l get it sent to him and he will hand deliver .Noritake must have overnighted it because the rep. emailed and we met while I was running errands today .He opened the package and to padded envelopes inside and no documentation this time .What they turned out to be is capacitive touch controls [ looking much like LCDs ] with sample printouts of what goes under the see-through touch panel and an interface circuit board .All this inside of a CD case BE CAREFUL , THE TOUCH PAD IS SILICONED TO THE CD CASE - SO DO NOT JUST PULL ON THE FLAT RIBON CONNECTOR .So this is giving me some ideas for use , something like the CD case , but thicker for some projects , a foldout container with the touch-pad on one side & one of the displays on the other , the extra thickness for what ever you may want to use the touchpad & display for .I have a MiniVNA Pro and if I recase this and use a larger display that has the touch feature , now all in one mini VNA .Have some more ideas , but I do not want to give away my trip to space

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2014, 12:32:54 am
content: I really want them to offer the 512x32's as free samples in EU. I would mount one above my monitors.

author: veryevil
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 30, 2014, 07:51:17 am
content: Quote from: dunkemhigh on April 26, 2014, 11:23:50 amTopLoser is selling VFDs?

author: Kjelt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2014, 08:54:53 am
content: I was thinking of designing a 128x64 VFD in a future project, but just comparing the prices against an LCD version it's no longer interesting. I mean €100+ for a VFD display you can get multiple full color touch screen 4" LCD's for that money.

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2014, 10:19:38 am
content: QuoteUh, don't think so right now. But the kit he does sell can match them in lustability

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2014, 02:00:37 pm
content: Quote from: Kjelt on April 30, 2014, 08:54:53 amFor Hi-rel things that are going to be on 24/7 for 10 years, that's when you would use a VFD.

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2014, 12:09:55 am
content: They are really intended for things like industrial machines, test equipment etc. where the display cost is fairly insignificant.

author: Kjelt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2014, 11:41:28 am
content: Well I saw them at Light and Building in lighting control switches like these where the text would be dynamically changing to the use.If found it very nice and I wanted to make something similar for my own project untill I saw the prices of the displays.

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 18, 2014, 12:40:16 am
content: so anyone else get one of those lan modules.. no instructions.. so I'm not exactly shure how to get it going not much in the way of documentation in english available..

author: koyachan
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 19, 2014, 05:16:38 pm
content: I found some information on the Ethernet board and links for documentation on the following pagehttp://www.noritake-elec.com/scp-bcxpst01.phpEthernet board Default settingsNetwork InterfaceProtocol: TCPIP configuration: DHCP, Obtain IP address automaticallyPort: 14000Serial InterfaceBaud Rate: 38,400 bpsStart Bit: 1Data: 8Parity: NoneStop Bit: 1Handshake: 1SCP-BCXPST01 datasheethttps://www.noritake-itron.jp/contact/spec_dl_func_en.php?code=scp-bcxpst01Lantronix Xport datasheethttp://www.lantronix.com/pdf/XPort_DS.pdfLantronix Xport User guidehttp://www.lantronix.com/pdf/XPort_UG.pdfLantronix Xport Integration guidehttp://www.lantronix.com/pdf/XPort_IG.pdfLantronix Xport Command referencehttp://www.lantronix.com/pdf/XPort-Pro_CR.pdf

author: firehopper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2014, 10:01:23 pm
content: your googlefu must be better than mine! I couldnt come up with much at all.. cept some stuff in japanese I thinkQuote from: koyachan on May 19, 2014, 05:16:38 pm

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2014, 12:11:55 am
content: Looking like they aren't doing free samples any more, now you can apply for a 50% discount on the price for a sample.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2014, 01:42:57 am
content: Quote from: Stonent on August 01, 2014, 12:11:55 amThey had that even while doing samples. I think the sample program may have been a way to clear out some old stock. They might start it again at any time.

author: Stonent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2014, 07:57:13 am
content: I was just doing some looking earlier for other types of displays and found that Adafruit sells a Futaba VFD very similar to this one for $85 or so.I wish these darn things weren't so expensive.

author: Fsck
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2014, 04:04:14 pm
content: Quote from: Stonent on August 01, 2014, 07:57:13 amthey're not exactly the easiest things to make (vs making those crappy LCD displays with bleh view angles) = not the cheapest display solution = even lower volumes = ...

author: ve7xen
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2014, 07:09:27 pm
content: Quote from: Stonent on August 01, 2014, 07:57:13 amNot to go too OT...butNice OLEDs can be had for half that or so, and are a reasonable compromise. Bonus they don't need optical filtering. Used these successfully:http://www.newhavendisplay.com/oled-graphic-oled-c-119_577.html

author: Richard Crowley
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2014, 07:16:13 pm
content: Those OLEDs look nice and are more sensibly-priced. But they don't have the "direct sunlight" performance that VFDs exhibit.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2014, 07:40:00 pm
content: Noritake sells oled displays as well. Price of a quantity of 1 was almost identical to the New Haven display price.

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2014, 01:12:12 am
content: A few problems with OLED though. They are moisture sensitive, so you do not want to use in outdoor applications (VFD is impervious as long as electronics are properly sealed.) Also an OLED burns quickly due to rapid initial loss of brightnes d. VFD does burn in as well but at a much lesser rate.

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2014, 01:41:25 am
content: In my experience OLEDs work great outdoors, even on camera. Also, OLEDs don't fade anything like they used to. IIRC, only blue OLEDs fade faster than plasma and CRT phosphors these days, red, green, and white all last a good long while.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2014, 05:22:05 pm
content: New I2C 140x32 graphic VFD display module for sample. Form appears to be broken right now but keep an eye on it.http://www.noritake-elec.com/evalkit-sample.php?id=sampleEDIT: Retried submitting and it now kicks me to the product page. No clue if the submission worked or not.

author: koyachan
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 19, 2014, 05:38:05 pm
content: The form now works and it now displays confirmationSubmission ConfirmedYour inquiry was successfully sent.Thank you for your interest in Noritake itron VFD Module.

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2014, 05:40:20 pm
content: Yeah you have to scroll down to the submission form to see the success/failure.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2014, 05:43:45 pm
content: Form still broken for me...

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2014, 05:53:09 pm
content: Worked for me this time! Should be a very interesting module.

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 26, 2014, 02:47:07 pm
content: Received my shipping notification. Should be here Friday!

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 27, 2014, 07:52:41 pm
content: Got mine today. I didn't get a shipping notice beforehand. Nice little display, no doubt.

author: tjb1
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2014, 11:19:59 am
content: Mine was suppose to arrive today but UPS is blaming severe weather on the delay...according the the tracking it has yet to go anywhere except Palatine, IL where it started and as far as I know there hasn't been any bad weather between NY and IL.

author: nardev
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 17, 2015, 12:14:29 pm
content: I got "GU140X32F-7000" long ago and i tested it BUT now i want to try something else and all docs and arduino lib that i had.Can somebody post scheme + arduino lib for it?

author: KD0CAC John
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2015, 03:32:39 pm
content: That's the last thing I need , I have one of the large displays , and a number of projects to use it for .Oh well , may well get some more ideas to use it for the 1 component