Tutorial: Connect a Crystalfontz LCD with a Raspberry Pi
Have you wondered what it takes to integrate a Crystalfontz LCD with a Raspberry Pi? The answer may surprise you — it is quicker and easier than you might think.
What you are going to need:
- A Raspberry Pi running XBMC (Update: we used Raspbmc for this tutorial, but now we recommend using Kodi instead)
- One of the Crystalfontz USB Display Modules. Applicable modules include: CFA631, CFA632, CFA633, CFA634, CFA635, CFA735, CFA835 series of displays. Click here for a comprehensive list of Crystalfontz USB LCDs.
- XBMC LCDproc Python addon.
- A surprising little amount of time.
Step-By-Step Connection Tutorial
In a nutshell: The set up can be done by SSHing into the Pi, doing the configuration and then enabling it via the Pi’s configuration menu.
Visit our tech forum for written step-by-step instructions, or watch the video below to learn how to integrate a Crystalfontz LCD with the Raspberry Pi.
Got Questions?
For any questions about connecting a Crystalfontz LCD or what LCD is the best choice for your application, please contact our knowledgeable and friendly support staff via email, phone, or chat.
Quick Tip – Use USB
The following links demonstrate possible difficulties using a serial connection. We recommend using a USB host, USB cable, and USB module for the quickest and easiest connection.
- Serial LCD Python Code
- Serial LCD Raspberry Pi Connection (video)
- Controlling a CrystalFontz 16×2 serial LCD with Arduino
Crystalfontz USB Display Series
The Crystalfontz USB LCD module series listed below will work great with this setup.
- CFA533 – 16×2 character + keypad
- CFA631 – 20×2 character + keypad
- CFA632 – 16×2 character
- CFA633 – 16×2 character + keypad
- CFA634 – 20×4 character
- CFA635 – 20×4 character + keypad
- CFA735 – 20×4 character + keypad
- CFA835 – 244×68 pixels
Find all of the Crystalfontz USB modules here.
Related Topic
Questions?
For any questions about Crystalfontz LCD product lines, what LCD is the best choice for your application, or any other questions (technical or availability), please contact our knowledgeable and friendly support staff via email, phone, or chat.
