NXP Semiconductors PCF8578H/1,118
- Part No.:
- PCF8578H/1,118
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Display Drivers
- Package:
- 64-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
PCF8578H/1,118.pdf
- Description:
- IC DRVR DOT MATRIX 64LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
PCF8578H/1 from NXP Semiconductors is a low-power CMOS LCD row/column driver IC designed for dot matrix graphic displays at 1:8, 1:16, 1:24 or 1:32 multiplex rates. It provides 40 outputs-24 programmable for configurable row/column ratios (32/8, 24/16, 16/24, 8/32)-and integrates 1280-bit display RAM, on-chip oscillator (Rext-controlled), and I²C-bus interface. It serves as a stand-alone controller in small systems or as master driver synchronized with up to 32 PCF8579s in large displays (up to 40960 dots).
For engineers reviewing the PCF8578H/1 datasheet, PCF8578H/1 pinout, PCF8578H/1 application, or PCF8578H/1 equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, exact pin functions for LQFP64 package, confirmed multiplex mode behavior, real bias voltage configuration options (5/6-level), and validated alternatives for automotive information systems, POS terminals, and industrial HMI designs.
Technical Context
The PCF8578H/1 implements a mixed-mode or row-mode LCD drive architecture with hardware subaddressing support for cascaded PCF8579 expansion. Its timing generator produces frame-synchronized SYNC pulses and derives internal clocks from an Rext-tuned oscillator (nominal 12.288 kHz with 330 kΩ), delivering CLK at 1/6 or 1/8 oscillator frequency depending on multiplex rate.
It features dual operational modes: in mixed mode, it drives both rows and columns using fixed outputs (R0–R7, C32–C39) plus 24 programmable bidirectional drivers (R8/C8–R31/C31); in row mode, all 32 outputs function as row drivers while C32–C39 are left open. Display RAM access uses auto-incremented addressing and bank switching across four 40-byte banks.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Multiplex rates | 1:8, 1:16, 1:24, or 1:32 - determines number of active row outputs and required bias voltage levels |
| Driver outputs | 40 total: 8 fixed row (R0–R7), 8 fixed column (C32–C39), 24 programmable (R8/C8–R31/C31) - enables flexible display geometry mapping |
| Display RAM | 1280-bit (32 × 40-bit) static RAM, organized in 4 banks of 40 bytes - supports segmented content updates and background buffer preparation |
| I²C-bus interface | Standard two-wire bidirectional interface with slave address selectable via SA0 (0111100 or 0111101) - ensures compatibility with most microcontrollers without level-shifting |
| Logic supply range | 2.5 V to 6 V - allows direct interfacing with 3.3 V or 5 V host systems without external regulators |
| LCD supply voltage | Up to 9 V - supports high-contrast monochrome LCD panels requiring elevated VLCD |
| Bias configuration | Externally selectable 5- or 6-level bias via V2–V5 inputs - matches optimal contrast requirements per multiplex rate per Table 6 |
Pinout & Package
PCF8578H/1 is housed in a plastic low-profile quad flat package (LQFP64) with 64 leads, body size 10 × 10 × 1.4 mm (SOT314-2). Pin layout optimized for single-plane wiring in multi-device LCD systems.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| SDA (Pin 7) | I²C serial data I/O | Bi-directional data line for command and display RAM transfer; requires external pull-up resistor |
| SCL (Pin 8) | I²C serial clock input | Master-generated clock synchronizing all I²C transactions; includes internal noise filtering |
| SYNC (Pin 9) | Cascade synchronization output | Frame-sync pulse distributed to PCF8579 slaves to maintain timing coherence across multi-chip displays |
| CLK (Pin 10) | External clock I/O or internal clock output | Provides system clock to PCF8579s at 1/6 (1:8/1:16/1:32) or 1/8 (1:24) oscillator frequency |
| VSS (Pin 11) | Ground reference | Common return for logic and oscillator circuitry; must connect TEST pin to VSS |
| TEST (Pin 12) | Factory test pin | Internally connected; must be hardwired to VSS in all applications per datasheet requirement |
| SA0 (Pin 13) | I²C slave address LSB | Selects between two 7-bit addresses (0111100 or 0111101) enabling dual-device coexistence on same bus |
| OSC (Pin 16) | Oscillator resistor input | Connects external Rext (typically 330 kΩ) to VSS to set oscillator frequency; placement critical for stability |
| VDD (Pin 20) | Logic supply voltage | Accepts 2.5–6 V; powers internal logic, I²C interface, and timing generator |
| V2–V5 (Pins 21–24) | LCD bias voltage inputs | Accept externally generated bias voltages; values determined by multiplex rate and Voper per Table 6 |
| VLCD (Pin 25) | LCD supply voltage | Drives LCD segment backplane; supports up to 9 V for high-threshold panels |
| R0–R7 (Pins 63,64,1–6) | Fixed row driver outputs | Always configured as row outputs; active during corresponding multiplex phase |
| C32–C39 (Pins 29–35,37) | Fixed column driver outputs | Always configured as column outputs in mixed mode; left open in row mode |
| R8/C8–R31/C31 (Pins 38–46,48–62) | Programmable row/column drivers | Configurable in blocks of 8; assigned as rows/columns based on selected multiplex ratio and mode |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated oscillator with Rext tuning | Eliminates need for external crystal or clock source; 330 kΩ sets nominal 12.288 kHz for 64 Hz frame rate |
| Auto-incremented RAM addressing | Enables continuous burst writes/reads across hardware subaddress boundaries without host intervention |
| Display memory bank switching | Supports double-buffering and flicker-free partial updates using four independent 40-byte banks |
| Power-On Reset (POR) blanking | Guarantees safe startup state: display blanked, 1:32 multiplex, X/Y pointer at (0,0), character mode enabled |
| Optimized pinning for cascade wiring | LQFP64 layout minimizes trace crossings when daisy-chaining multiple PCF8578/PCF8579 devices |
Applications
| Automotive Information Systems | Point-of-Sale Terminals |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Monochrome dot matrix display in instrument clusters or center console infotainment overlays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Stand-alone LCD controller/driver managing 1:16 or 1:24 multiplexed 128×64 pixel panel with integrated bias generation. Use Value: Reduces BOM count by integrating oscillator, RAM, and I²C interface-eliminating external timing components and display memory chips. |
Use Scenario: Customer-facing display in retail checkout systems showing pricing, promotions, and transaction status. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary row/column driver in mixed mode, driving 1:8 or 1:16 multiplexed alphanumeric + graphics display with scroll capability. Use Value: Enables smooth text scrolling and dynamic icon updates via auto-incremented RAM access and bank switching-no CPU overhead for display refresh. |
| Industrial Computer Terminals | Telecommunication Systems |
|
Use Scenario: Operator interface on factory-floor HMIs requiring reliable monochrome display under wide temperature and EMI conditions. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Master controller in row-mode configuration, synchronizing up to 16 PCF8579 slaves for large-format 320×128 displays. Use Value: Provides deterministic SYNC timing and CLK distribution-ensuring zero frame tearing across multi-chip display segments. |
Use Scenario: Status and dialpad display in legacy telecom handsets or base station control panels. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power stand-alone driver for 1:32 multiplexed 96×32 segment display with POR-initiated blanking. Use Value: Achieves <100 µA standby current with logic supply down to 2.5 V-extending battery life in portable telecom equipment. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LCD row/column driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCF8578T/1 | Identical functionality and register map; packaged in VSO56 (56-lead SO) instead of LQFP64 | Preferred for space-constrained PCBs where 10×10 mm footprint is prohibitive; lower thermal mass than LQFP64 | Select PCF8578T/1 when board area is limited and thermal dissipation requirements are modest |
| PCF8578HT/1 | Same electrical specs; uses thinner TQFP64 package (1.0 mm height vs. 1.4 mm for PCF8578H/1) | Required for ultra-low-profile assemblies (e.g., handheld telecom devices); identical pinout and routing | Choose PCF8578HT/1 when mechanical stack-up constraints mandate sub-1.2 mm component height |
Compared with PCF8578H/1, PCF8578T/1 offers smaller footprint but reduced thermal performance, while PCF8578HT/1 maintains full compatibility in a lower-profile package-enabling design reuse across form factors without schematic or firmware changes.
Availability
PCF8578H/1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive information systems, point-of-sale terminals, and industrial computer terminals requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceability.
Supply support for PCF8578H/1 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 leader focused on secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications.
The PCF8578 belongs to NXP's legacy LCD controller portfolio, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power monochrome dot matrix displays in automotive dashboards, industrial HMIs, and telecom interfaces.
FAQ
What is the maximum display resolution supported by PCF8578H/1 in stand-alone mode?
The PCF8578H/1 supports up to 32 rows × 32 columns (1024 dots) in stand-alone mixed mode using 1:32 multiplexing. With fixed R0–R7 and C32–C39 plus 24 programmable drivers, it achieves configurations like 32/8, 24/16, 16/24, or 8/32-maximizing usable geometry within its 40-output constraint. The PCF8578H/1 does not support higher resolutions without cascading PCF8579s.
How does the PCF8578H/1 handle display RAM addressing during I²C transfers?
The PCF8578H/1 uses a data pointer and subaddress counter to manage RAM access. Commands like load-X-address and RAM-access set the starting location, and subsequent data bytes are written or read with auto-incremented addressing across hardware subaddress boundaries. This allows uninterrupted burst transfers without host-side address management-critical for efficient display updates in the PCF8578H/1.
Can PCF8578H/1 operate with only an external clock, bypassing the internal oscillator?
Yes. To use an external clock, connect OSC to VDD and apply the clock signal to CLK. The PCF8578H/1 then disables its internal oscillator and uses the external signal for timing generation. This is required when precise frame-rate control or synchronization with other system clocks is needed-though the internal oscillator (with 330 kΩ Rext) remains the default for simplicity in the PCF8578H/1.
What happens to unused driver outputs in PCF8578H/1 row mode?
In row mode, the PCF8578H/1 configures all 32 programmable outputs (R8/C8–R31/C31) as row drivers, while fixed column outputs C32–C39 must be left open-circuit. Unused row outputs beyond the selected multiplex count (e.g., R16–R31 in 1:16 mode) remain inactive but should not be shorted or loaded-leaving them floating ensures correct waveform integrity and avoids unintended LCD segment activation in the PCF8578H/1.
Is PCF8578H/1 compatible with modern 3.3 V microcontrollers despite its 2.5–6 V logic range?
Yes. The PCF8578H/1's logic supply range (2.5 V to 6 V) fully encompasses 3.3 V operation. Its I²C-bus interface uses standard open-drain signaling with external pull-ups, ensuring interoperability with 3.3 V microcontrollers without level shifters. All control logic, command decoding, and RAM access function correctly at 3.3 V-making the PCF8578H/1 suitable for mixed-voltage industrial designs.
PCF8578H/1,118 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 64-LQFP
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Display Type:
- LCD
- Configuration:
- Dot Matrix
- Interface:
- I2C
- Digits or Characters:
- -
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V ~ 6V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 64-LQFP (10x10)
PCF8578H/1,118 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for PCF8578H/1,118 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for PCF8578H/1,118 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 PCF8578H/1,118 reliable?
The price and inventory of PCF8578H/1,118 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for PCF8578H/1,118 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for PCF8578H/1,118?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for PCF8578H/1,118 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for PCF8578H/1,118?
PCF8578H/1,118 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your PCF8578H/1,118 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 PCF8578H/1,118?
For technical support, including PCF8578H/1,118 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your PCF8578H/1,118 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that PCF8578H/1,118 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All PCF8578H/1,118 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 PCF8578H/1,118 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of PCF8578H/1,118?
All PCF8578H/1,118 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with PCF8578H/1,118, 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 PCF8578H/1,118 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for PCF8578H/1,118:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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