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NXP Semiconductors PCF8578T/1,118
- Part No.:
- PCF8578T/1,118
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Display Drivers
- Package:
- 56-BSOP (0.435", 11.05mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
PCF8578T/1,118.pdf
- Description:
- IC DRVR DOT MATRIX 56VSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,321
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Product details
Overview
PCF8578T/1,118 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Philips) is a low-power CMOS LCD row/column driver IC designed for dot matrix graphic displays at 1:8 to 1:32 multiplex rates. It provides 40 programmable outputs configurable as 32/8, 24/16, 16/24 or 8/32 rows/columns, integrates 1280-bit display RAM with bank switching, and features an on-chip oscillator requiring only one external resistor. It serves as a stand-alone controller or master driver for cascaded PCF8579s in automotive information systems and point-of-sale terminals.
For engineers reviewing the PCF8578T/1,118 datasheet, PCF8578T/1,118 pinout, PCF8578T/1,118 application, or PCF8578T/1,118 equivalent, key selection criteria include I²C-bus interface compatibility, mixed-mode vs. row-mode configuration flexibility, 2.5–6 V logic supply range, 9 V maximum LCD supply voltage, and support for chip-on-glass integration in space-constrained embedded displays.
Technical Context
The PCF8578T/1,118 implements a dual-role display controller architecture supporting both mixed mode (row + column driving) and row-only mode for cascading with up to 32 PCF8579s. Its timing generator produces frame-synchronized SYNC pulses and derives CLK output at 1/6 or 1/8 of the internal oscillator frequency depending on multiplex rate.
It uses an I²C-bus controller with two fixed 7-bit slave addresses (0x78 and 0x79), selectable via SA0, and supports three RAM access modes (character, half-graphic, full-graphic) with auto-incremented addressing across 4 banks of 40-byte display memory. The device includes input filters on SDA/SCL lines and requires TEST pin tied to VSS.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Multiplex Rates | 1:8, 1:16, 1:24, or 1:32 - determines number of active rows per frame and required bias voltage levels |
| Driver Outputs | 40 total: R0–R7 and C32–C39 fixed; R8/C8–R31/C31 programmable in 8-output blocks - enables flexible display geometry mapping |
| Display RAM | 1280-bit (32 × 40-bit) static RAM, organized in 4 banks of 40 bytes - supports scrolling, pseudo-motion, and background display preparation |
| I²C Interface | Standard-mode (100 kHz) slave with two 7-bit addresses (0x78/0x79) - allows coexistence with multiple PCF8579s on same bus |
| Supply Voltages | VDD = 2.5–6 V (logic); VLCD ≤ 9 V (LCD panel) - accommodates wide-range microcontroller interfaces and high-contrast LCD panels |
| Oscillator | On-chip RC oscillator with ROSC pin - sets system clock using single external resistor (330 kΩ typical) |
| Package | VSO56 (SOT190-1), 56-pin plastic very small outline - optimized for single-plane PCB routing in multi-device LCD modules |
Pinout & Package
PCF8578T/1,118 is supplied in a 56-lead plastic very small outline package (VSO56, SOT190-1), measuring 13.6 × 5.7 × 1.75 mm, with 0.65 mm lead pitch and gull-wing leads. This package supports surface-mount reflow soldering and is compatible with chip-on-glass (COG) assembly.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| SDA (1) | I²C serial data bidirectional line | Open-drain interface requiring external pull-up; handles command/data transfer and subaddress decoding |
| SCL (2) | I²C serial clock input | Master-generated clock synchronizing all I²C transactions; filtered internally for noise immunity |
| SYNC (3) | Cascade synchronization output | Frame-sync pulse distributed to downstream PCF8579s to maintain inter-device timing alignment |
| CLK (4) | External clock input/output | Outputs divided oscillator signal (1/6 or 1/8) in mixed mode; accepts external clock when OSC tied to VDD |
| VSS (5) | Logic ground reference | Common return for digital circuitry and ROSC connection; must tie TEST pin to this node |
| TEST (6) | Test function control | Must be hard-connected to VSS; no internal pull-down - floating or high state invalidates operation |
| SA0 (7) | I²C slave address LSB | Selects between 0x78 (SA0 = low) or 0x79 (SA0 = high); enables dual-address operation on shared bus |
| OSC (8) | Oscillator resistor connection | Connects external ROSC (330 kΩ typical) to VSS; placement near pin critical for stability |
| VDD (9) | Positive logic supply | Powers internal logic, I²C interface, and timing generator; range 2.5–6 V supports battery and rail-flexible designs |
| V2–V5 (10–13) | LCD bias voltage inputs | Accept externally generated bias voltages (e.g., from resistor divider) to set contrast per multiplex rate |
| VLCD (14) | LCD panel supply | High-voltage rail for LCD segment/backplane drive; max 9 V - decoupling capacitor required |
| n.c. (15–16) | No-connect terminals | Internally unconnected; must remain unpopulated and un-routed on PCB |
| C39–C32 (17–24) | Fixed column driver outputs | Dedicated column outputs; driven in all modes - connect directly to LCD column electrodes |
| R31/C31–R8/C8 (25–48) | Programmable row/column drivers | Configurable in 8-output groups; in mixed mode used as columns after R0–R7 rows; in row mode all become row drivers |
| R7–R0 (49–56) | Fixed row driver outputs | Always active as row select lines; sequencing follows multiplex rate (e.g., R0–R7 for 1:8, R0–R15 for 1:16) |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Stand-alone or cascade-capable architecture | Operates independently for small displays or as master controller for up to 32 PCF8579s - scales dot count to 40,960 without host MCU overhead |
| Configurable driver topology | 40 outputs assignable as 32/8, 24/16, 16/24 or 8/32 rows/columns - matches diverse LCD panel layouts without redesign |
| Hardware subaddressing & bank switching | Four 40-byte RAM banks with SET START BANK command - enables smooth vertical scrolling and double-buffered display updates |
| Integrated oscillator with minimal BOM | Single external ROSC resistor sets frame rate - eliminates crystal, capacitors, and layout complexity in cost-sensitive applications |
| I²C protocol optimization | Command chaining (continuation bit), auto-incremented addressing, and hardware subaddress filtering - reduces bus traffic and host processing load |
| Power-on reset with safe defaults | Initializes display blank, 1:32 multiplex, X/Y = 0,0 pointer, and I²C interface - prevents ghosting or DC stress on LCD during power ramp |
Applications
| Automotive Information Systems | Point-of-Sale Terminals |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Monochrome dot matrix display in instrument clusters or center-stack infotainment showing vehicle status, navigation prompts, and warning icons. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary LCD controller/driver managing 1:16 or 1:24 multiplexed 128×64 panel; generates SYNC and CLK signals for optional secondary drivers. Use Value: Low power consumption extends battery life in always-on modules; wide VDD range (2.5–6 V) accommodates automotive 5 V and 3.3 V domains without level shifters. | Use Scenario: Customer-facing display in retail checkout systems showing transaction totals, itemized receipts, and promotional banners. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Stand-alone driver for 96×32 alphanumeric + graphics display; handles full RAM refresh and bank-switched scrolling via I²C commands. Use Value: 1280-bit RAM with character/half-graphic modes reduces host MCU memory footprint; VSO56 package enables compact, low-profile module design. |
| Telecommunication Systems | Computer Terminals |
Use Scenario: Status and configuration display on VoIP phones, fax machines, or network routers with limited board space. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Mixed-mode driver for 64×32 segmented display; uses SA0 to share I²C bus with other peripherals (EEPROM, sensor). Use Value: Dual I²C addresses (0x78/0x79) prevent bus conflicts; built-in input filters suppress EMI from switching power supplies and RF circuits. | Use Scenario: Legacy terminal or industrial HMI display showing ASCII-based system diagnostics, menu navigation, and real-time logs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Row-mode master coordinating up to 16 PCF8579s for large 256×64 graphic display; provides synchronized CLK and SYNC signals. Use Value: Cascadable architecture eliminates need for high-pin-count microcontrollers; 1:32 multiplex support enables high-resolution monochrome panels with low component count. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LCD controller/driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCF8578H/1,118 | LQFP64 package (10×10×1.4 mm) vs. VSO56 (13.6×5.7×1.75 mm); identical electrical specs and pin functions | Better thermal dissipation and PCB routing flexibility; requires different land pattern and stencil design | Select PCF8578H/1,118 for higher-power or multi-layer board designs where QFP handling and rework are preferred |
| PCF8579T/1,118 | Slave-only device with no internal oscillator or SYNC output; 40 outputs fixed as columns; relies on PCF8578 for timing and addressing | Used only in cascaded systems as extension driver - cannot operate stand-alone or replace PCF8578T/1,118 | Choose PCF8579T/1,118 only as companion device to expand dot count beyond 40960; not a functional substitute |
Compared with PCF8578H/1,118, the PCF8578T/1,118 offers superior board-area efficiency in ultra-thin modules; compared with PCF8579T/1,118, it delivers full autonomous control - eliminating dependency on a master controller and enabling simpler, lower-cost single-driver implementations.
Availability
PCF8578T/1,118 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive information systems, point-of-sale terminals, and telecommunication equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term manufacturability, and legacy display compatibility.
Supply support for PCF8578T/1,118 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 specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications, with deep heritage in Philips' analog and interface IC portfolio.
The PCF8578T/1,118 belongs to NXP's legacy LCD controller family, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, low-power monochrome graphic displays in instrumentation and human-machine interfaces where reliability and long product lifecycles are critical.
FAQ
What is the primary function of the PCF8578T/1,118 in an LCD system?
The PCF8578T/1,118 functions as a dedicated LCD row/column driver IC that manages dot matrix graphic displays at multiplex rates from 1:8 to 1:32. It drives up to 40 outputs, stores display data in its 1280-bit RAM, and communicates via I²C. In stand-alone use, it controls the entire display; in larger systems, it acts as the master timing controller for cascaded PCF8579 devices. The PCF8578T/1,118 handles waveform generation, bias voltage coordination, and frame synchronization - offloading these tasks from the host microcontroller.
Can the PCF8578T/1,118 operate without external components?
The PCF8578T/1,118 requires at minimum one external component: a resistor (ROSC) connected between the OSC pin and VSS to set the internal oscillator frequency - 330 kΩ is recommended for nominal operation. It also requires external bias voltage sources (V2–V5) derived from a resistor divider network and decoupling capacitors on VLCD and VDD. The TEST pin must be hard-connected to VSS. While no crystal or active clock source is needed, these passive components are mandatory for functional operation of the PCF8578T/1,118.
How does the PCF8578T/1,118 support display scrolling and animation?
The PCF8578T/1,118 supports smooth vertical scrolling and animation through its 4-bank, 1280-bit display RAM and SET START BANK command. By changing the bank selected as the top-of-display (via B1/B0 bits), the visible portion of RAM shifts without rewriting pixel data - enabling efficient pseudo-motion and background display preparation. Combined with auto-incremented RAM access modes (character, half-graphic, full-graphic), the PCF8578T/1,118 allows rapid partial updates. This eliminates the need for host MCU buffering and reduces I²C bus traffic during dynamic content changes.
What are the valid I²C slave addresses for the PCF8578T/1,118?
The PCF8578T/1,118 supports two fixed 7-bit I²C slave addresses: 0x78 (binary 01111000) and 0x79 (binary 01111001). The least significant bit is controlled by the logic level applied to the SA0 pin: SA0 = VSS selects 0x78; SA0 = VDD selects 0x79. Both addresses are reserved exclusively for PCF8578/PCF8579 devices. This dual-address capability allows one PCF8578T/1,118 to coexist with up to 32 PCF8579s on the same I²C bus - provided each PCF8579 is assigned a unique hardware subaddress (A0–A3 pins).
Is the PCF8578T/1,118 compatible with modern microcontrollers?
Yes, the PCF8578T/1,118 is fully compatible with modern microcontrollers featuring standard-mode (100 kHz) I²C interfaces. Its open-drain SDA/SCL pins, built-in input filters, and TTL/CMOS logic thresholds ensure robust communication with ARM Cortex-M, ESP32, PIC, and AVR families. The command set is simple and deterministic - requiring only basic I²C write/read operations. No special timing constraints or protocol extensions are needed. Host firmware interacts solely through documented opcodes (SET MODE, RAM ACCESS, etc.), making integration straightforward across toolchains and RTOS environments.
PCF8578T/1,118 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 56-BSOP (0.435", 11.05mm Width)
- 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:
- 56-VSO
PCF8578T/1,118 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for PCF8578T/1,118 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for PCF8578T/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 PCF8578T/1,118 reliable?
The price and inventory of PCF8578T/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 PCF8578T/1,118 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for PCF8578T/1,118?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for PCF8578T/1,118 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for PCF8578T/1,118?
PCF8578T/1,118 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your PCF8578T/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 PCF8578T/1,118?
For technical support, including PCF8578T/1,118 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your PCF8578T/1,118 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that PCF8578T/1,118 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All PCF8578T/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 PCF8578T/1,118 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of PCF8578T/1,118?
All PCF8578T/1,118 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with PCF8578T/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 PCF8578T/1,118 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for PCF8578T/1,118:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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