Getting Started With LCD's and Microprocessors

In this Instructable, find out how to control LCD's with a ATmega8 and Bascom.




You will need:

- Breadboard
- Wires
- ATmega8
- Programmer
- Bascom AVR (There is also a demo version for Free)
- 10k resistor
- 100k resistor
- 10k variable resistor
- 7805 Voltage regulator
- 100 µF 16V electrolytic capacitor
- 100n capacitor
- 16x2 LCD

Step 1: Install Software

1) Go and download BASCOM AVR

http://www.mcselec.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=category&sectionid=3&id=67&Itemid=41

 2) Install it.

 3) Download PonyProg

http://www.lancos.com/ppwin95.html

4) Install it

Step 2: Build the Circuit

1) Build the circuit on your breadboard.

Warning:
When you want to use the backlight, make sure you're using a resistor unless it's already build in your LCD.

Step 3: Write the Program

1) Write a Program in Bascom AVR or use the one i made. There are tons of Bascom tutorials on the internet, or use the Bascom help.

2) Once you've done that, compile the program and open PonyProg.
in PonyProg, click open and choose the .hex file you've just created by compiling the .bas file in Bascom AVR.


3) Now connect your programmer to your computer. I recommend not to build one by yourself. These things are crap.

If you live in Germany and don't want to spent much money, buy the "ATMEL Evaluation Board" from Pollin. This is the device i'm using. I don't know if these guys ship to the US.

Step 4: Test It!

Now just put the ATmega8 into the circuit and see if it works. If it does, you can write your own programs and build lots of cool things. If not, look for the error. And remember: Be patient!

There are some problems with the attachments here, so i uploaded the schematics and the code stuff to Rapidshare.

http://rapidshare.com/files/382345097/instr.rar