NXP Semiconductors PCF2116AU/10,005

Overview

PCF2116AU/10,005 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Philips) is a single-chip CMOS LCD controller/driver for 1–4 line alphanumeric dot-matrix displays with 5×7/5×8 character format, featuring on-chip VLCD and bias voltage generation, 80-character DDRAM, 240-character CGROM, and dual 4/8-bit parallel or I²C-bus interface - deployed in telecom equipment and portable instruments.

For engineers reviewing the PCF2116AU/10,005 datasheet, PCF2116AU/10,005 pinout, PCF2116AU/10,005 application, or PCF2116AU/10,005 equivalent, key selection criteria include MUX rate support (1:16 or 1:32), built-in character set C, dual supply voltage ranges (VDD−VSS: 2.5–6 V; VDD−VLCD: 3.5–9 V), I²C address 011101SA0, and LQFP128 package compatibility.

Technical Context

The PCF2116AU/10,005 implements an integrated timing generator with on-chip oscillator (no external components required) and supports both internal VLCD generation (via V0 control) and external VLCD supply. It delivers 32 row and 60 column driver outputs with automatic bias level selection based on configured MUX rate (1:16 or 1:32).

It provides dual interface modes: 4/8-bit parallel bus (with RS/R/W/E/DB0–DB7) and 2-wire I²C-bus (SCL/SDA/SA0), where SA0 sets sub-address for multi-device bus configuration. The chip includes power-on reset, busy flag (DB7), and instruction set compliant with common 11-code LCD command standard.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LQFP128 package (14 × 20 × 1.4 mm, SOT425-1); 128-pin quad flat with exposed thermal pad (not electrically connected). Pin functions validated per Philips datasheet Rev. 1997 Apr 07.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with PCF2116CU/10,005, the PCF2116AU/10,005 offers identical hardware but different CGROM content; versus ST7066U, it delivers lower system-level power and reduced external component count via on-chip VLCD and bias generation.

Availability

PCF2116AU/10,005 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom equipment, portable instruments, and point-of-sale terminals requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for PCF2116AU/10,005 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 formed from Philips' semiconductor division, specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications.

The PCF2116AU/10,005 belongs to NXP's legacy LCD controller family designed specifically for low-power, cost-sensitive alphanumeric display systems in portable and embedded equipment.

FAQ

What display configurations does the PCF2116AU/10,005 support?

The PCF2116AU/10,005 supports 1-line (24 chars), 2-line (24 chars), or 4-line (12 chars) alphanumeric displays using 5×7 or 5×8 dot matrix format. It handles MUX rates of 1:16 and 1:32, with automatic bias voltage selection. The PCF2116AU/10,005 uses its 32 row and 60 column drivers to drive split-screen layouts optimized for chip-on-glass construction.

Does the PCF2116AU/10,005 require external components for LCD bias generation?

No - the PCF2116AU/10,005 integrates both VLCD generation and intermediate LCD bias voltage generation on-die. Only a decoupling capacitor on VLCD pins is required when using internal generation. This eliminates external resistor ladders or charge pumps, reducing BOM and PCB area. The PCF2116AU/10,005 supports external VLCD supply as an alternative.

How is the I²C address configured for the PCF2116AU/10,005?

The PCF2116AU/10,005 uses a fixed 7-bit I²C address of 011101x, where the LSB is set by the SA0 pin: SA0 = low → 0111010 (0x3A), SA0 = high → 0111011 (0x3B). This allows two PCF2116AU/10,005 devices on the same I²C bus. The PCF2116AU/10,005 does not support software-addressable addressing beyond this hardware pin.

What is the function of the V0 pin on the PCF2116AU/10,005?

The V0 pin on the PCF2116AU/10,005 is a high-impedance analog input that controls the on-chip VLCD generator output level. With G=1 in the Function Set instruction, VOP = 1.8VDD − V0; with G=0, VOP = VDD − V0. V0 must be between VSS and VDD −1 V. The PCF2116AU/10,005 uses this to set optimal LCD contrast without external DACs or potentiometers.

Can the PCF2116AU/10,005 operate with a 3.3 V logic supply?

Yes - the PCF2116AU/10,005 supports VDD−VSS from 2.5 V to 6 V, making it fully compatible with 3.3 V systems. Its CMOS/TTL-compatible I/Os interface directly with 3.3 V microcontrollers in both parallel and I²C modes. The PCF2116AU/10,005 maintains full functionality including VLCD generation and display timing across this range.