NXP Semiconductors PCF8545BTT/A118
- Part No.:
- PCF8545BTT/A118
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Display Drivers
- Package:
- 56-TFSOP (0.240", 6.10mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
PCF8545BTT/A118.pdf
- Description:
- UNIVERSAL LCD DRIVER FOR MULTIPL
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
PCF8545BTT/A118 from NXP Semiconductors is an SPI-interface LCD controller/driver IC supporting up to 8 backplanes and 320 segments, operating from 1.8 V to 5.5 V logic supply and 2.5 V to 5.5 V LCD supply, with factory-calibrated frame frequency (60–300 Hz) for driving alphanumeric or graphical LCDs in industrial instrumentation and consumer metering.
For engineers reviewing the PCF8545BTT/A118 datasheet, PCF8545BTT/A118 pinout, PCF8545BTT/A118 application, or PCF8545BTT/A118 equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, validated pin functions, real-world use cases, and confirmed alternative options for multiplexed LCD interface design.
Technical Context
The PCF8545BTT implements a dedicated segment driver architecture with 320-bit display RAM, auto-increment addressing, and programmable bias (1/2, 1/3, 1/4) and multiplex mode (1:4, 1:6, 1:8). Its SPI interface operates at up to 5 MHz with CE, SCL, and SDI signals, and supports backplane swapping (BPS bit) for PCB routing flexibility.
Frame timing is derived from either internal 230 kHz oscillator (factory calibrated ±10%) or external clock (9.6 kHz or 230 kHz), with software-selectable prescaler (FD[4:0]) enabling precise 10 Hz-step frame frequency tuning from 60 Hz to 300 Hz - critical for flicker-free display operation in battery-powered devices.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Interface | SPI-bus: CE (active LOW), SCL (clock input), SDI (data input) |
| Max Segment Count | 320 elements - supports up to 40×7-segment or 20×14-segment alphanumeric displays |
| Backplane Support | Configurable 4, 6, or 8 backplanes - enables compatibility with common 1:4 to 1:8 multiplexed LCD modules |
| Frame Frequency Range | 60–300 Hz in 10 Hz steps - factory-calibrated for stable operation without external trimming |
| Supply Voltage Range | VDD = 1.8–5.5 V; VLCD = 2.5–5.5 V - allows independent logic/LCD rail control and low-voltage MCU integration |
| Display RAM | 320-bit storage with auto-increment addressing - reduces host MCU overhead during display updates |
| Operating Temperature | −40 °C to +85 °C - qualified for industrial and extended-temperature consumer applications |
Pinout & Package
TSSOP56 package (SOT364-1), 56-pin plastic thin shrink small outline, body width 6.1 mm, lead pitch 0.5 mm, exposed pad not present.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1–11, 20–31, 48–56 (S9–S19, S20–S31, S0–S8) | LCD segment output | Drive individual LCD segments; total 320 segments addressable via backplane configuration |
| 12–19, 32–39 (BP0–BP7 / S32–S39) | Backplane or segment output | Pin function swaps based on BPS bit setting - enables flexible PCB layout for single-layer routing |
| 40 (CE) | SPI chip enable | Active LOW signal initiating SPI communication; must be asserted before SCL/SDI activity |
| 41 (SCL) | SPI serial clock | Input clock up to 5 MHz; synchronous timing reference for command/data transfer |
| 42 (SDI) | SPI data input | Serial command/data input; latched on rising edge of SCL per SPI protocol |
| 43 (RESET) | Active LOW reset | Hardware reset clearing all registers to default state (E=0, PD=0, MUX=1:8, bias=1/4); RAM content preserved |
| 44 (VSS) | Ground supply | Reference for both logic and LCD circuitry; requires low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling |
| 45 (VDD) | Digital supply | 1.8–5.5 V logic power; powers internal registers, SPI interface, and control logic |
| 46 (OSCCLK) | Oscillator I/O | Configurable as internal oscillator output (230 kHz) or external clock input (9.6/230 kHz) depending on OSC/COE bits |
| 47 (VLCD) | LCD supply | 2.5–5.5 V analog supply for LCD bias generation; must be ≥ VDD and applied/removed simultaneously |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 320-element drive capability | Enables full-featured alphanumeric or custom graphics LCDs without external segment expansion |
| Independent VDD/VLCD rails | Allows optimization of logic voltage (e.g., 3.3 V MCU) and LCD contrast voltage (e.g., 4.5 V) separately |
| Programmable frame frequency | Software-tuned 60–300 Hz range eliminates need for external timing components or calibration |
| Backplane swapping (BPS) | Reconfigures BP/segment pin mapping to simplify single-layer PCB routing without redesigning display layout |
| Low-power modes | Power-down mode (PD=1) disables oscillator and sets outputs to VSS - reduces standby current to <1 µA |
| OTP-refresh calibration | Factory-programmed oscillator trim stored in one-time-programmable memory ensures frame frequency accuracy across temperature |
Applications
| Industrial Panel Meters | Consumer Energy Monitors |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Compact DIN-rail mounted electricity meters displaying real-time kW, kWh, and tariff information on segmented LCDs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary LCD controller managing 320-segment display with 1:8 multiplexing and 120 Hz frame rate to eliminate visible flicker. Use Value: Reduces MCU firmware overhead via auto-increment RAM writes and eliminates external bias resistor networks through integrated bias generation. |
Use Scenario: Battery-powered home energy monitors showing voltage, current, and consumption history on 14-segment alphanumeric LCDs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power LCD driver using 1:4 multiplex mode and 60 Hz frame frequency to extend coin-cell battery life beyond 5 years. Use Value: Enables direct connection to 3.3 V microcontrollers while maintaining optimal LCD contrast via separate VLCD rail (4.2 V). |
| Medical Diagnostic Handhelds | Appliance Control Panels |
Use Scenario: Portable blood glucose meters requiring high-contrast, sunlight-readable LCDs with alphanumeric and icon support. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Display controller handling mixed 7-segment numeric and 14-segment symbol rendering under variable ambient light conditions. Use Value: Backplane swapping simplifies flex-circuit routing between LCD glass and PCB, reducing assembly cost and improving yield. |
Use Scenario: Microwave oven or washing machine control panels with multi-line segmented displays showing time, cycle status, and error codes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust LCD interface supporting 1:6 multiplexing and 180 Hz frame rate to withstand EMI in high-noise appliance environments. Use Value: Integrated power-down mode allows instantaneous display blanking during door-open events without MCU intervention. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LCD controller/driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCF8545ATT/AJ | I2C interface (400 kHz), identical pinout and functionality except bus protocol; requires A0 address pin configuration | Preferred where I2C bus resources are available and fewer GPIOs are needed vs. SPI CE/SCL/SDI | Select when system already uses I2C for other peripherals and board layout favors 2-wire simplicity over SPI speed |
| MAX6955ATL+T | 4-wire SPI interface, 128-segment max, integrated charge pump for VLCD generation, no backplane swapping | Targets smaller displays (<128 seg); lacks 320-seg capacity and configurable multiplex/bias modes of PCF8545BTT/A118 | Choose only for space-constrained designs needing integrated VLCD generation and accepting reduced segment count |
Compared with PCF8545ATT/AJ, PCF8545BTT/A118 offers higher SPI bandwidth (5 MHz vs. 400 kHz I2C) and eliminates slave address conflicts; versus MAX6955ATL+T, it provides 2.5× more segment drive capability and full bias/mux configurability at the cost of external VLCD regulation.
Availability
PCF8545BTT/A118 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial panel meters, consumer energy monitors, medical handhelds, and appliance control panels requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles.
Supply support for PCF8545BTT/A118 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 headquartered in Eindhoven, Netherlands, specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications.
The PCF8545 series belongs to NXP's legacy LCD peripheral portfolio, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power embedded systems requiring reliable, standalone LCD interfacing without MCU resource burden.
FAQ
What interface protocol does the PCF8545BTT/A118 use?
The PCF8545BTT/A118 uses a 3-wire SPI interface consisting of CE (chip enable, active LOW), SCL (serial clock input), and SDI (serial data input). It does not support I2C - that variant is the PCF8545ATT/AJ. The SPI interface operates up to 5 MHz and requires no pull-up resistors or address configuration, simplifying host MCU integration compared to I2C alternatives.
How many LCD segments can the PCF8545BTT/A118 drive?
The PCF8545BTT/A118 drives up to 320 LCD elements, configured across 4, 6, or 8 backplanes. This supports up to 40 alphanumeric 7-segment characters, 20 alphanumeric 14-segment characters, or arbitrary graphics layouts. The actual segment count depends on selected multiplex mode: 1:8 mode yields 320 segments (8 × 40), while 1:4 mode supports 320 segments across 4 backplanes (4 × 80).
Does the PCF8545BTT/A118 require an external crystal or oscillator?
No, the PCF8545BTT/A118 includes a factory-calibrated internal 230 kHz oscillator, eliminating the need for external timing components. It also accepts external clocks (9.6 kHz or 230 kHz) via the OSCCLK pin when higher precision or synchronization with system clock is required. The internal oscillator achieves ±10% accuracy across −40 °C to +85 °C without trimming.
What is the purpose of the BPS bit in the PCF8545BTT/A118?
The BPS (backplane swap) bit reassigns the physical pin mapping of backplane and segment outputs - moving BP0–BP7 from pins 12–19 to pins 32–39 and vice versa. This feature aids single-layer PCB routing by allowing flexible trace placement without modifying LCD glass layout or adding vias, and is configured before display enable via the mode-settings command.
Can the PCF8545BTT/A118 operate with separate logic and LCD supply voltages?
Yes, the PCF8545BTT/A118 supports independent VDD (1.8–5.5 V) and VLCD (2.5–5.5 V) supplies. This allows optimizing MCU logic voltage (e.g., 3.3 V) while setting VLCD to 4.2 V for maximum LCD contrast. Critical design rule: VDD and VLCD must be powered up/down simultaneously to prevent static voltage buildup across the LCD that causes display artifacts or damage.
PCF8545BTT/A118 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 56-TFSOP (0.240", 6.10mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Display Type:
- LCD
- Configuration:
- 320 Segment
- Interface:
- SPI
- Digits or Characters:
- 20 Characters, 40 Characters, 320 Elements
- Current - Supply:
- 30 µA
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.8V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 56-TSSOP
PCF8545BTT/A118 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for PCF8545BTT/A118 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for PCF8545BTT/A118 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for PCF8545BTT/A118 reliable?
The price and inventory of PCF8545BTT/A118 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for PCF8545BTT/A118 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for PCF8545BTT/A118?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for PCF8545BTT/A118 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for PCF8545BTT/A118?
PCF8545BTT/A118 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your PCF8545BTT/A118 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for PCF8545BTT/A118?
For technical support, including PCF8545BTT/A118 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your PCF8545BTT/A118 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that PCF8545BTT/A118 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All PCF8545BTT/A118 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that PCF8545BTT/A118 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of PCF8545BTT/A118?
All PCF8545BTT/A118 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with PCF8545BTT/A118, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The PCF8545BTT/A118 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for PCF8545BTT/A118:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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