> The datasheet is on the left link.
> The name of the pdf is "2x16el.pdf"

Not the best data sheet, especially for someone who hasn't
used an LCD before. But the info is in there. It looks like a
standard HD44780-compatible LCD. The d/s for that is
much better

> 1) How easy is it to interface with it. Data bus is 4 -bit.
> Is it much harder to talk to the LCD?

It isn't harder or easier than 8-bit. Just needs a little more
code. Once the routines are written then it's pretty trivial
to write anything anywhere on the screen whether it's 4 or
8 bits. A 4-bit i/f uses fewer port lines, but data has to be
written in two 4-bit chunks, so transfer takes longer. An 8-bit
i/f obviously uses more port lines but data can be displayed
faster. Although typically data will go from PIC to screen in
< 100us even in 4-bit mode. The data buss can be used
with shift registers or latches so you could multi-task the
PICs port pins or use less of them, but a plain wiring would
need 11 pins for 8-bit i/f and 7 for 4-bit

> 2) Do I really need an EL inverter to make it function.

No

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