1x16 HD44780 problems

[brianpeiris]

i have a 1x16 HD44780 module connected to my parallel port. But the problem is that when i use lcd sofware like LCDCenter or LCDSmartie only the first 8 characters show. but when i change to a 2x16 setting in the software the last eight characters work but they show the text thats supposed to be on the second row of a 2x16 lcd. whats wrong? is it my wiring?

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[CF Tech]

It is just the way 1x16's are typically wired. They look like an 8x2 placed side-by side.

Give CFAH_WinTest a try. If it works then CrystalControl will probably work with it.

 

[brianpeiris]

Wintest works fine for me, but i can't really use it all the time, all it does is display a message. so i tried CrystalControl. it looks like it can controll HD44780 but when i try and add a "generic HD44780" module it comes up with a thousand messages saying "privledged instruction" and then just closes down completely. what does that mean? how do i fix it?

 

[brianpeiris]

oops, i forgot to restart . but it still doesn't work, still only first 8 chars. tsk tsk crystalfontz :> how come this doesn't work but Wintest works perfectly ! NO FAIR!!. please someone help!

 

[samsng]

hey, i have a prob too. my 1x16 only displays 8 rectangles.... even with just the 5V and GND connected to the module and nothing else! is this normal? cos i followed this sweet guide from here:http://www.electronics-lab.com/projects/pc/020/ but somehow i can't seem to program the darn thing with smartie. help appreciated!

 

[CF Tech]

samsng: Beware of that guide . . . there is no backlight current limiting resistor and no contrast adjustment.

You might give CFAH_WinTest a try.