Capacitive touchscreen development modules speed compact HMI designs

The FTDI VM801B Embedded Video Engine (EVE) LCD development module is now available from Alpha Micro. Based around FTDI’s FT801 EVE display controller IC the module provides a perfect platform from which to implement touchscreen human machine interfaces (HMI) using an object-oriented approach. Measuring just 106.7mm x 68.6mm the compact module is available with a choice of a 4.3- or 5-inch LCD display and comes complete with an integrated projected capacitance touchscreen and mounting bezel. The touchscreen can interpret up to five independent touch points in order to detect common touchscreen gestures such as swipes, pinches, zoom and rotations. The module also features an audio power amplifier, micro speaker and a real-time clock (RTC). An on-board LED backlight driver is also provided. The VM801B can be powered from a number of sources such as via a +5 VDC 2.1mm power jack, USB micro-B connector or via the SPI master connect. The capability to power the module from a +3.3 VDC supply is also possible via the I2C interface. Presenting itself as a SPI Slave device, the module needs to be connected to a host microcontroller’s SPI Master in order to be programmed. With all the features of the VM801B an even more comprehensive development module, the VM801P is also available. This enhanced board features the addition of an Atmel ATMEGA328P microcontroller that together with a Micro-SD socket provides all the necessary data processing capability to allow the module to function as a full integrated stand-alone display compatible with the Arduino open source ecosystem. Both modules suit use in a wide range of commercial, industrial, healthcare and home automation applications, says the company.