PCF8576CTA/1J

Overview

The PCF8576CTA/1J is a universal LCD driver designed for low multiplex rates, manufactured by NXP Semiconductors. It serves as a peripheral device that interfaces with almost any Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) featuring static or multiplexed configurations. The component generates drive signals for displays containing up to four backplanes and up to 40 segments. It communicates via a two-line bidirectional I2C-bus, ensuring compatibility with most microprocessors and microcontrollers. The device features internal LCD bias generation with voltage-follower buffers and supports selectable display bias configurations including static, 1/2, or 1/3 modes.

Feature Summary

• Single-chip LCD controller and driver capable of generating drive signals for static or multiplexed displays with up to four backplanes and 40 segments.
• Integrated I2C-bus interface with auto-incremented display data loading and hardware subaddressing to minimize communication overhead.
• Internal LCD bias generation utilizing voltage-follower buffers, allowing separation of LCD and logic power supplies.
• Supports versatile blinking modes and display memory bank switching in both static and duplex drive configurations.

Applications

• Battery-operated consumer products requiring low power consumption
• Telephone applications utilizing power-saving modes
• Automotive twisted nematic LCDs with high threshold voltages
• Guest-host LCD systems

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix '1J' against official NXP documentation to confirm package type and tape-and-reel specifications. Ensure the I2C address configuration matches your system design, as the device uses a fixed target address structure. Confirm environmental compliance status such as RoHS and REACH indicators for the specific manufacturing batch before integration into final assemblies.

Selection Notes

Select this component when driving LCDs with up to 40 segments and four backplanes using an I2C interface. It is suitable for applications requiring separated logic and LCD supply voltages ranging from 2 V to 9 V. Consider this part for designs needing internal bias generation and low power consumption features, particularly in battery-operated environments where power-saving modes are critical.

Part Context

The PCF8576 series belongs to NXP's portfolio of universal LCD drivers for low multiplex rates. It supersedes earlier versions from Philips Semiconductors and is designed to interface with various microcontroller architectures. The device simplifies LCD interface design by integrating control logic, driver circuits, and bias generation into a single CMOS chip, reducing external component count and board space requirements.

Replacement Considerations

Public confirmed substitute part numbers are not available in the provided documentation. Verify if the PCA8576DU is a functional equivalent for automotive applications, noting its discontinued status. Consult NXP technical support for current alternatives if the PCF8576CTA/1J is no longer manufactured.

FAQ

What is the maximum number of backplanes supported by the PCF8576?

The PCF8576 supports up to four backplanes for static or multiplexed LCD configurations.

How does the PCF8576 handle communication overhead?

Communication overhead is minimized through auto-incremented display data loading across device subaddress boundaries and hardware subaddressing capabilities.

Can the LCD and logic supplies be separated?

Yes, the PCF8576 allows for separate LCD and logic power supplies, supporting a wide power supply range from 2 V to 9 V.