We really like the range of LCDs we stock in the shop, such as our classicblue & whiteand the fancyRGB negativeandRGB positive. Unfortunately, these LCDs require quite a few digital pins: 6 to control the LCD and then another 3 to control the RGB backlight for a total of 9 pins. That’s half of the pins available on a classic Arduino!

The 16×2 Character LCD is NOT, repeat, NOT included in this product listing.

With this in mind, we wanted to make it easier for people to get these LCDs into their projects, so we devised a shield that lets you control a 16×2 Character LCD, up to 3 backlight pins, AND 5 keypad pins using only the two I2C pins on the Arduino! The best part is you don’t really lose those two pins either, since you can stick i2c-based sensors, RTCs, etc, and have them share the I2C bus. This is a super slick way to add a display without all the wiring hassle.

This shield is perfect for building a stand-alone project with its own user interface. The four directional buttons plus a select button allow basic control without attaching a bulky computer.

The shield is designed for ‘classic’ Arduino-shaped boardssuch as the Uno, Metro, etc. But it will also fit “Mega” sized boards because the I2C pins are labeled SCL/SDA. This used to come as a kit but now comes as an assembled SMT design, so much less soldering is required.

Specifications:

• EagleCAD PCBfiles and Fritzing available in the product tutorial
• Dimensions: 2.1″ x 3.2″
• For use with 16×2 Character displays
• Plug and play with any Arduino ‘classic’ – UNO, duemilanove, diecimilla, etc as well as Arduino Mega R3.
• Uses only the I2C pins SDA & SCL
• This board/chip uses I2C 7-bit address 0x20

Package Includes!

• 1 x I2C Controlled + Keypad Shield Kit for 16×2 LCD

Note: LCD is not included