Hi Neil,


PD> First time using an LCD (Jameco/Ampire 2x16 unit), and just
PD> experimenting a bit for now.  If you're curious, datasheet
PD> is at: https://www.jameco.com/Jameco/Products/ProdDS/171715.pdf

PD> I'm controlling the LCD manually (for now) with 11 DIP switches.
PD> Sounds painful I know, but it's not that bad... if it works.
PD> Which it doesn't exactly.

PD> For each bit-combo. I setup the bits with enable set LOW, then
PD> toggle enable to HIGH and back to LOW.  First I ran though the
PD> initialization sequence this way, then set DDRAM to address 0,
PD> then wrote data LLHHLLHH to the RAM.  What I get is the char
PD> '3' display, but on the first 6 character positions.  If I
PD> toggle the enable to HIGH and back to LOW again, it writes '3'
PD> in the next 6 or so positions.

PD> That's odd.  Anyone know why?  My guess is that I'm missing
PD> something fundamental on the operation of LCD's, and the
PD> datasheet is not exactly as well detailed as, say, a Microchip
PD> datasheet.

Well my guess would be that you're not missing something on the
operation of the LCD's, but in the operation of a switch ... did you
debounce the switches ?? If not you'll have to do that, because a
switch does not switch a signal digital !


   _   _   _____________________
__| |_| |_|
  ^
  - Switch set to high, followed by bouncing an finally signal is
    stable high

PD> Another Q... I guess CG stands for character generator, but
PD> why is there an operation to write to CG RAM?  What's the
PD> purpose of that?  Can I create my own fonts or something?

Hmm only had a short look at the datasheet and I don't know the
KS0066U-controller, but if it's compatible to the Hitachi HD 44780 the
answer to your question is yes, you can create at least some
characters on your own.

Greets,
       Michael

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