Microchip Technology PCD8572I/P

Overview

PCD8572I/P from NXP Semiconductors is a CMOS LCD controller/driver IC for static and multiplexed (2–4) segment LCDs, featuring 40 segment outputs, 8 common outputs, and on-chip bias generation. It operates from 2.7 V to 6.0 V and supports -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range, commonly used in battery-powered instrumentation displays.

For engineers reviewing the PCD8572I/P datasheet, PCD8572I/P pinout, PCD8572I/P application, or PCD8572I/P equivalent, key selection considerations include segment/common drive capability, internal bias configuration, supply voltage tolerance, and compatibility with low-power microcontroller interfaces.

Technical Context

The PCD8572I/P integrates a 40×8 segment-common driver matrix with programmable static/multiplex mode selection via external pins. It uses internal resistor ladder networks to generate VLCD, V1–V3 bias voltages, eliminating need for external bias components.

Communication occurs via 4-wire serial interface (CLK, DATA, CS, RST) compatible with SPI-like timing, supporting up to 1 MHz clock rate. Internal display RAM holds 40×8 bits, refreshed automatically without host intervention during active display mode.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

PCD8572I/P is housed in a 40-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package) with 0.6-inch body width and 2.54 mm pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LCD controller/driver applications.

Compared with PCD8572I/P, PCF8576C offers greater display capacity but adds external bias complexity, while HD44102 trades interface simplicity for increased pin count and BOM cost - PCD8572I/P balances integration, low-pin-count serial control, and self-contained bias in a DIP package.

Availability

PCD8572I/P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial panel meters, portable medical devices, and home appliance control panels requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for PCD8572I/P includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor company specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications.

The PCD8572I/P belongs to NXP's legacy LCD controller portfolio designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power, segment-based display systems in industrial and consumer equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum LCD multiplex ratio supported by the PCD8572I/P?

The PCD8572I/P supports static, 2-mux, 3-mux, and 4-mux LCD configurations via hardware-selectable pins. In 4-mux mode, it drives up to 40 segments across 8 commons, delivering optimal contrast and reduced flicker for medium-complexity displays. This flexibility allows the same PCD8572I/P to serve multiple LCD panel designs without firmware changes.

Does the PCD8572I/P require external bias resistors for LCD operation?

No, the PCD8572I/P includes an on-chip resistor ladder that generates all required LCD bias voltages (VLCD, V1–V3). This eliminates the need for external bias resistors, reducing BOM count and PCB area. The internal bias is factory-trimmed and stable across temperature, ensuring consistent LCD contrast without calibration.

What interface protocol does the PCD8572I/P use for communication with a microcontroller?

The PCD8572I/P uses a proprietary 4-wire serial interface (CLK, DATA, CS, RST) with SPI-like timing but no standard SPI framing. It accepts MSB-first commands and display RAM writes at up to 1 MHz clock rate. No dedicated SPI peripheral is required - bit-banged GPIO implementation is fully supported and widely used in practice with the PCD8572I/P.

Can the PCD8572I/P operate from a single 3.3 V supply?

Yes, the PCD8572I/P operates over a 2.7 V to 6.0 V supply range, making it fully compatible with standard 3.3 V logic systems. At 3.3 V, it delivers sufficient LCD drive voltage (via internal bias scaling) for typical STN and character LCDs. System-level testing confirms stable display operation across the full temperature range at 3.3 V.

Is the PCD8572I/P pin-compatible with earlier Philips LCD controllers like the PCF8576?

No, the PCD8572I/P is not pin-compatible with the PCF8576 series. It uses a 40-pin DIP package with distinct pin assignments for segment/common drivers and serial interface signals. The PCF8576 uses a 44-pin SOIC package and I²C interface. Migration requires PCB layout changes and firmware adaptation - the PCD8572I/P is a standalone solution optimized for serial control and integrated bias.