16x4 lcd display, characters lcd — A 16 character by 4 line character LCD module in COB construction with an HD44780 compatible NT7070 controller and a white LED backlight, giving four lines of text without moving to a 20 character wide panel.
Specifications
| Model | MLC164Y-1 |
|---|
| Format | 16 characters x 4 lines |
|---|
| Build | COB |
|---|
| Controller | HD44780 compatible (NT7070 or equivalent) |
|---|
| Interface | 4-bit / 8-bit parallel |
|---|
| Character size | 5 x 8 dots |
|---|
| Drive method | 1/16 duty, 1/5 bias |
|---|
| Input voltage | 3.3 V / 5 V |
|---|
| Viewing direction | 6 o'clock |
|---|
| Display mode | yellow-green / white |
|---|
| Backlight | White LED |
|---|
Compare with nearby character LCD sizes
| Format | Controller | Interface | Backlight |
|---|
| 16 x 2 | HD44780 compatible | 4-bit / 8-bit | White LED |
| 16 x 4 | HD44780 compatible | 4-bit / 8-bit | White LED |
| 20 x 2 | HD44780 compatible | 4-bit / 8-bit | White LED |
FAQ
Why do the lines on my 16x4 appear in the wrong order?
The HD44780 does not lay out four lines in sequence. The controller addresses them at 0x00, 0x40, 0x10 and 0x50, so if the firmware writes a continuous string the text appears on lines 1 and 3 before filling lines 2 and 4. Setting the cursor address for each line fixes it.
Can the 16x4 run on 3.3 V as well as 5 V?
Yes, this module accepts a 3.3 V or a 5 V input, so it can be used with either logic level without a level shifter.
Is the 16x4 pin compatible with a 1602?
Yes, it uses the same 16 pin HD44780 arrangement and the same 4-bit or 8-bit bus. Only the outline differs, since the module is taller for the extra two lines.
When should I choose 16x4 over 20x4?
When the panel width is limited. The 16x4 keeps the module narrower while still giving four lines; the 20x4 needs more width but fits longer labels.
The 16x4 uses the same 16-pin assignment as the rest of the range; details in the Character LCD Pinout Guide.
