LCDs are ok but do require a fair bit understanding
before they will work. There are lots of libraries that will help you get
started. The biggest issue is the fact that you can only show 32 characters on a
16x2 or 80 characters on a 20x4. With this limitation you might miss something
if the LCD isn't big enough. I would recommend getting a backlight version where
ever possible. Two good sources of cheaper LCDs Ifound are www.ebay.com and www.futurlec.com . Of course google will
show you other good sources.
Terminal software running on a computer of
some description (I prefer Bray's terminal over others like Hyperterminal) is a
great place to start. You have almost unlimited number of characters available,
you can dump the output to a log file easily for later recollection. The
biggest advantage is that you need minimal setup to get it working. You can
change transmision speed etc very easily to suit different
situations.
TV or VGA output is also a good idea. There is one
recent resource at www.avrfreaks.net
called
"Simple VGA/Video terminal" that has complete hardware and software
to output serial data. (you'll need to login to access the academy section).
There are other TV/ VGA solutions out there. Of course, you will need a whole TV
or moniter dedicated to outputting info.
I'd say a TV is a good idea for a simple game of
checkers etc.
Basically I use the PC terminal software as a debug
tool and use LCDs and other output when the project calls for it.
----- Original Message -----From: ShekiboySent: Thursday, November 03, 2005 3:53 PMSubject: [AVR-Chat] Display Options -Clarifiedall right I couldn't make myself clear enough.
What I specifically want to know is about the interfacing of common
display devices like :
1.LCD Display,
2.television Screen.
If I develop some primitive game playing application(say checkers or
any such thing) LED's won't be that effective.what options do I have
then.
Kindly give details abt input options also,again apart from keyboard
which i currently use.
(I'm working on Mega-8 kit).
Thanks.