> I have searched for specs on both "typical" LCD character
> displays, and on the PIC itself, but the LCD specs do not
> give the current requirements of Vo

I don't believe Vo goes to the LCD ICs (eg 44780 or 44100).
It's part of the PSU, and is often shown supplied via the wiper
of a 10k pot

VRUR (unit resistance value R) is stated as 2k ohms for the
F88's Voltage Reference. Figure 14-1 of DS30487C shows

Vdd - 8R - (16 * R taps) - 8R - Vss

so it probably doesn't have enough ooomph for an LCD. But
there's one way to find out for sure

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