Summary of 4DSYSTEMS – DIABLO16- AND PICASO-BASED LCD MODULES
RS Components and 4D Systems launched the Gen4 Series of integrated TFT LCD modules, featuring Diablo16 or Picaso GPUs for high-performance touch interfaces in compact spaces. Sizes range from 2.4″ to 7.0″ with resistive, capacitive, or non-touch options. Key features include a 30-pin ZIF socket, microSD slot, PWM audio pin, recessed circuitry, and a flush-mount cover lens bezel. The series supports the Workshop4 IDE with four development modes: Designer, ViSi, ViSi-Genie, and Serial mode.
Parts used in the Gen4 Series:
- Diablo16 GPU
- Picaso GPU
- TFT LCD Module (2.4″ to 7.0″)
- Resistive Touch Screen Option
- Capacitive Touch Screen Option
- Non-Touch Sensitive Version
- 30-Pin ZIF FFC Socket
- MicroSD Memory Card Connector
- PWM Audio Pin
- Workshop4 IDE Software
- Cover Lens Bezel (CLB)
RS Components, a global multi-channel provider of industrial and electronic products and solutions, has introduced the Gen4 Series of integrated TFT LCD modules and related starter packs from embedded graphics specialist 4D Systems. Gen4 display modules are designed for ease of integration and use by electronics design engineers developing touch screen interfaces, achieving high functionality with a limited space requirement. Gen4 Series LCD modules are powered by either a Diablo16 or a Picaso GPU, both manufactured by 4D Systems and incorporating advanced graphics functionality. The displays come in a number of sizes from 2.4″ (240 x 320 pixels) up to 7.0″ (800 x 480 pixels). Resistive and capacitive touch screen options are available, and RS can also offer non-touch-sensitive versions.
Each module incorporates a 30-pin ZIF (zero insertion force) FFC (flexible flat cable) socket for easy connection to an application or motherboard, or to peripheral boards providing additional functionality. An onboard microSD memory card connector allows for multimedia storage and data logging, while a dedicated PWM audio pin enables sound generation via an external amplifier.
The Gen4 Series is fully compatible with the 4D Systems Workshop4 IDE, which offers a choice of four development environments: Designer, for programming in native 4DGL (4D Graphics Language) code; ViSi, providing drag-and-drop object placement to aid 4DGL code generation, and allowing the developer to visualise how the display will look when in use; the fully object oriented ViSi-Genie, which performs all 4DGL coding automatically; and a Serial mode that allows the Gen4 module to be controlled from a host device with a serial port.
As a space-saving measure, all display related circuitry in Gen4 Series modules is recessed into the plastic mounting base. A pre-installed cover lens bezel (CLB) option — a glass cover with overhanging edges — allows the display to be mounted flush within a panel or enclosure using double-sided adhesive tape on the overhanging glass, without the need for any mounting hardware.
Read more: 4DSYSTEMS – DIABLO16- AND PICASO-BASED LCD MODULES
- What are the available screen sizes for the Gen4 Series?
Sizes range from 2.4 inches up to 7.0 inches. - Can I use a touchscreen with the Gen4 modules?
Yes, resistive and capacitive touch screen options are available. - How is the Gen4 module connected to a motherboard?
It uses a 30-pin ZIF FFC socket for easy connection. - Does the module support audio output?
Yes, a dedicated PWM audio pin enables sound generation via an external amplifier. - What software can be used to develop for the Gen4 Series?
The modules are compatible with the 4D Systems Workshop4 IDE. - Is there a drag-and-drop interface option for coding?
Yes, the ViSi environment provides drag-and-drop object placement. - How does the Cover Lens Bezel help with installation?
It allows the display to be mounted flush within a panel using double-sided adhesive tape. - Where is the display circuitry located on the module?
All display-related circuitry is recessed into the plastic mounting base.
