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NXP Semiconductors PCF8579H/1:118
- Part No.:
- PCF8579H/1:118
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Display Drivers
- Package:
- 64-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
PCF8579H/1:118.pdf
- Description:
- IC DRVR DOT MATRIX 64LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,504
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Product details
Overview
PCF8579H/1 from NXP Semiconductors is a low-power CMOS LCD column driver IC designed for dot matrix graphic displays at 1:8, 1:16, 1:24, or 1:32 multiplex rates. It provides 40 column outputs, integrates 1280-bit static RAM (32 × 40 bits across 4 banks), and operates with logic supply from 2.5 V to 6 V and LCD supply up to 9 V. It functions as the column-side partner to the PCF8578 row driver in automotive instrument clusters and industrial terminals.
For engineers reviewing the PCF8579H/1 datasheet, PCF8579H/1 pinout, PCF8579H/1 application, or PCF8579H/1 equivalent, key selection criteria include its I²C-bus interface with dual slave address support, hardware subaddressing (A0–A3) for cascading up to 32 devices, display bank switching, auto-incremented RAM addressing, and compatibility with microcontrollers requiring low-power LCD drive solutions.
Technical Context
The PCF8579H/1 implements a synchronized cascade architecture where timing is controlled via the SYNC input from the PCF8578 row driver, ensuring precise inter-device alignment across multi-chip LCD systems. Its internal timing generator coordinates RAM-to-column data flow using externally supplied synchronization pulses and supports selectable bias configurations (5- or 6-level) via V3/V4 inputs.
Communication occurs over a standard I²C-bus with two fixed 7-bit slave addresses (0x78 and 0x79), selected by SA0. The device acts as an I²C slave transmitter/receiver and includes input filters on SDA/SCL for noise immunity. Command decoding supports five distinct opcodes-including set-mode, RAM-access, and device-select-with hardware subaddress matching (A0–A3) required for RAM access.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Multiplex rates | 1:8, 1:16, 1:24, or 1:32 - determines maximum supported LCD rows and bias voltage configuration |
| Column outputs | 40 outputs (C0–C39) - drives up to 32 × 40-dot displays when paired with PCF8578 |
| Display RAM | 1280-bit (32 × 40) static RAM in 4 banks - enables bank-switched scrolling and partial refresh without host CPU overhead |
| I²C interface | Two 7-bit slave addresses (0x78/0x79) via SA0 - allows up to 32 devices on one bus with unique subaddressing |
| Supply ranges | VDD = 2.5 V to 6 V; VLCD ≤ 9 V - supports wide logic voltage compatibility and high-contrast LCD bias generation |
| Hardware subaddress | 4-bit (A0–A3) - enables individual addressing of up to 16 devices per slave address in cascaded configurations |
| Power-on reset | Initializes display blank, 1:32 multiplex, bank 0, and X/Y = 0,0 - ensures deterministic startup state |
Pinout & Package
PCF8579H/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 assignments are validated per NXP datasheet Rev. 05 (May 2009), Figure 3.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| SDA (Pin 7) | I²C serial data line | Bidirectional data transfer; requires external pull-up; supports auto-incremented RAM writes/reads |
| SCL (Pin 8) | I²C serial clock input | Master-generated clock; synchronizes all command and data transfers |
| SYNC (Pin 9) | Cascade synchronization input | Receives timing pulses from PCF8578 to align column output timing across multiple drivers |
| CLK (Pin 10) | External clock I/O | Optional clock source for internal timing; can be driven or monitored depending on system configuration |
| VSS (Pin 11) | Ground reference | Logic ground return; must connect TEST pin to VSS per datasheet requirement |
| SA0 (Pin 13) | I²C slave address bit 0 | Selects between slave addresses 0x78 (SA0 = 0) or 0x79 (SA0 = 1) for bus segmentation |
| A3–A0 (Pins 14,16–18) | Hardware subaddress inputs | 4-bit code uniquely identifies each PCF8579H/1 in cascaded systems (0–15) |
| VDD (Pin 20) | Logic supply voltage | 2.5 V to 6 V operation; powers internal logic, I²C interface, and RAM |
| V3, V4 (Pins 22,23) | LCD bias voltage inputs | Set 5- or 6-level bias network for optimal contrast at selected multiplex rate |
| VLCD (Pin 24) | LCD supply voltage | Up to 9 V; supplies column driver outputs; referenced to VDD for bias generation |
| C0–C39 (Pins 30–33,35–64,1–6) | LCD column driver outputs | 40 open-drain CMOS outputs; directly drive LCD segments; unused pins left open |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Auto-incremented RAM addressing | Enables continuous block transfers without repeated address commands-reduces I²C transaction overhead by ~40% in full-screen updates |
| Display memory bank switching | Supports double-buffered display updates and vertical scrolling in alphanumeric mode without visible tearing |
| Power-On Reset (POR) blanking | Guarantees no ghosting or transient artifacts at power-up-critical for safety-critical automotive displays |
| Optimized pinning for single-plane wiring | LQFP64 layout minimizes PCB layer count in multi-driver stacks-reduces routing complexity in large-format LCD modules |
| I²C input filters | Integrated RC low-pass filtering on SDA/SCL enhances EMI resilience in noisy industrial environments (e.g., factory HMIs) |
Applications
| Automotive Instrument Clusters | Industrial Point-of-Sale Terminals |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Driving segmented or dot-matrix LCDs in vehicle speedometers, fuel gauges, and warning indicators with real-time data updates. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Column driver synchronized to PCF8578 row controller via SYNC signal; manages 40-column segment activation timing under 1:16 or 1:24 multiplex. Use Value: Enables high-contrast, flicker-free display operation at ambient temperatures from −40 °C to +85 °C while maintaining <100 µA standby current. | Use Scenario: Rendering dynamic pricing, product codes, and transaction status on retail checkout LCD panels. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: I²C-addressable column driver supporting bank-switched partial updates during concurrent barcode scanning and receipt printing. Use Value: Reduces host MCU intervention via auto-incremented RAM writes-cuts display update latency by 35% versus discrete GPIO-driven solutions. |
| Telecom System Displays | Embedded Industrial Control Panels |
Use Scenario: Displaying call status, signal strength, and menu navigation on legacy telecom handsets and base station interfaces. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Cascadable column driver (up to 32 units) operating at 1:32 multiplex with external bias control via V3/V4 pins. Use Value: Supports high-resolution monochrome graphics (e.g., 128 × 64) with consistent contrast across temperature via programmable bias levels. | Use Scenario: Visualizing sensor readings, alarm states, and process parameters on ruggedized HMI panels in manufacturing cells. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power LCD driver with POR-initiated blanking-ensures safe default state during brown-out or reset events. Use Value: Meets IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 ESD immunity (±8 kV contact) due to diode-free SCL/SDA ESD protection tied to VSS only. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LCD column driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCF8579T/1 | VSO56 package (56-lead SO); identical electrical specs and command set; lacks LQFP64 mechanical footprint | Preferred for space-constrained PCBs where height <1.6 mm is critical; not drop-in compatible with LQFP64 land pattern | Select when board area is limited but Z-height must be minimized; verify thermal derating for same power dissipation |
| PCF8579HT/1 | TQFP64 package (10 × 10 × 1.0 mm); same pinout and functionality; thinner profile than PCF8579H/1's 1.4 mm height | Used where strict mechanical stack-up requirements exist (e.g., handheld devices); identical electrical behavior | Choose for ultra-low-profile assemblies; ensure reflow profile accommodates thinner package warpage characteristics |
Compared with PCF8579H/1, PCF8579T/1 offers smaller footprint but higher profile density, while PCF8579HT/1 delivers identical performance in a 0.4 mm lower package-enabling tighter mechanical integration without altering firmware or schematic design.
Availability
PCF8579H/1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive instrument clusters, industrial point-of-sale terminals, and telecom system displays requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for PCF8579H/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 company specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications.
The PCF8579 series belongs to NXP's legacy LCD driver product line, engineered specifically for cost-effective, low-power dot matrix display systems requiring robust I²C control and scalable multi-chip architectures.
FAQ
What is the maximum number of PCF8579H/1 devices that can operate on a single I²C-bus?
The PCF8579H/1 supports up to 32 devices on one I²C-bus using two slave addresses (0x78 and 0x79), selected by the SA0 pin. Each address supports 16 uniquely subaddressed units (via A0–A3), enabling large-format LCD systems such as 40960-dot displays when paired with PCF8578 row drivers. This scalability is confirmed in NXP datasheet Section 8.
Does PCF8579H/1 require external bias resistors for LCD contrast control?
No, the PCF8579H/1 does not require external bias resistors. It accepts externally generated bias voltages (V3, V4) to configure 5- or 6-level LCD bias networks. These voltages are typically derived from dedicated bias generators like the PCF8578 or discrete resistor ladders, as specified in Table 4 of the NXP datasheet for optimal contrast at each multiplex rate.
How does the PCF8579H/1 handle power-on initialization?
At power-on, the PCF8579H/1 executes a hardware reset that blanks the display, sets 1:32 multiplex rate, selects bank 0, initializes the data pointer to X,Y = 0,0, enables character mode, resets the subaddress counter to 0, and initializes the I²C-bus interface. This deterministic startup sequence prevents display glitches and is detailed in Section 8.1 of the NXP datasheet.
Can PCF8579H/1 drive LCDs without the PCF8578 row driver?
No, the PCF8579H/1 is designed exclusively for use with the PCF8578 row driver. Its SYNC input, timing generator, and command set assume coordination with PCF8578 for row/column synchronization, bias generation, and display RAM management. The datasheet explicitly states it forms "a general purpose LCD dot matrix driver chip set" only when used together.
What is the function of the TEST pin on PCF8579H/1?
The TEST pin (Pin 12) on PCF8579H/1 must be connected to VSS (ground) per NXP datasheet Table 3 Note [1]. It is not user-accessible for diagnostics or test modes in normal operation and serves an internal factory test function. Leaving it unconnected or floating violates the absolute maximum ratings and may cause undefined behavior.
PCF8579H/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:
- 9 µA
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V ~ 6V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 64-LQFP (10x10)
PCF8579H/1:118 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for PCF8579H/1:118 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for PCF8579H/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 PCF8579H/1:118 reliable?
The price and inventory of PCF8579H/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 PCF8579H/1:118 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for PCF8579H/1:118?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for PCF8579H/1:118 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for PCF8579H/1:118?
PCF8579H/1:118 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your PCF8579H/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 PCF8579H/1:118?
For technical support, including PCF8579H/1:118 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your PCF8579H/1:118 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that PCF8579H/1:118 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All PCF8579H/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 PCF8579H/1:118 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of PCF8579H/1:118?
All PCF8579H/1:118 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with PCF8579H/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 PCF8579H/1:118 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for PCF8579H/1:118:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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