B4R Question Connect two character LCDs

[Mostez]

Hello,
I want to use two character-LCDs on same Arduino (user side LCD for data entry, and the other one for customer to see final total). Is it possible to connect all pins except enable pin, then create two different LCD objects i.e.

LCD1.Initialize(31, 255, 33, Array As Byte(35, 37, 39, 41))
LCD2.Initialize(31, 255, 34, Array As Byte(35, 37, 39, 41))

or should I use I2C module with I2C LCD liberary

Thanks

 

[Cableguy]

The I2C standard allows you to connect several devices in parallel on a single bus.
Each device has its own address and therefore can be individually targeted and controlled...
So, yes, you can have multiple LCD, just be sure their address is different as they usually come with the same predefined address from factory

 

[Mostez]

what about the first method!, as it is less expensive than adding I2C module, though I will use I2C method if it is the best method available.
Thanks

 

[Cableguy]

In the long term, the I2C will prove itself more versatile...
ie: you will more easily upgrade the mk0 machine without needing to rethink the whole schematics... Just by adding to the same already in use I2C bus and adding code, instead of searching for free pins in your hardware

 

[Mostez]

thanks for your help