VDISP 0035416 Card Module Industrial Display Controller
The VDISP 0035416 is a dedicated display controller card designed for industrial applications, often used in PLC systems to provide VGA output for operator interfaces. This module accepts serial commands (RS-232) and generates standard VGA signals (640x480 or 800x600 resolution) to drive an external monitor or LCD panel. It is commonly found in legacy automation systems where a separate PC was not feasible.
Functional Description
The card is built around a 32-bit microcontroller with embedded video RAM (2 MB). It acts as a text and graphics terminal, interpreting commands sent from a host PLC or embedded computer. The module supports character-based screens (80x25 or 40x25) as well as bitmap graphics (up to 16 colors). A built-in flash memory stores up to 20 user-defined screens that can be recalled by index.
Hardware Specifications
Dimensions: 100 mm x 80 mm (Eurocard format).
Power supply: 5V DC ±5% @ 300 mA (via DB9 or screw terminals).
Input port: RS-232 (3-wire Rx, Tx, GND) with baud rates 9600 to 115200.
Output: VGA DB15 female connector (RGB with separate H/V sync).
Additional I/O: two digital outputs (open collector, 24V 100mA) for alarm or backlight control.
LED indicators: PWR, COM, and SCREEN (flashes on screen refresh).
Command Set
The module accepts ASCII commands terminated by CR/LF. Common commands:
$SCL– Clear screen and home cursor.$SXY– Set cursor position (row 1-25, column 1-80).$TXT– Display text string.$DSP– Display a pre-stored screen (1-20).$GRA– Draw line, circle, or rectangle.$BKL– Set backlight intensity (0-100%).
All commands are acknowledged with an OK or ERR response.
Configuration and Diagnostics
Configuration is done via a terminal program (e.g., HyperTerminal) using the command $CONFIG. The user can set baud rate, screen resolution, and default startup screen. The module includes a self-test mode that displays a color bar pattern when powered with a jumper closed. The firmware can be updated through the serial port using XMODEM protocol.
Physical and Environmental
Operating temperature: 0 to 50°C. Storage: -20 to 70°C. Humidity: 10% to 90% non-condensing. The card has mounting holes for M3 screws and is intended for installation inside a control cabinet. Protection against reverse polarity on power input is provided (diode).
Typical Applications
Used as a low-cost operator interface for PLCs without a built-in HMI port. The VDISP 0035416 can drive a 12-inch or 15-inch VGA monitor, displaying machine status, production counters, and alarm messages. It is also suitable for retrofitting older machines where the original display is no longer available.
Integration Example
A PLC (e.g., Siemens S7-1200) sends ASCII strings via its RS-232 port to the VDISP card. The PLC can update a numeric value every 100 ms and trigger alarm screens when an input is active. The VDISP automatically formats the data according to pre-programmed screen templates stored in its flash.
Ordering and Documentation
Part number: VDISP 0035416. The card is supplied with a 0.5m serial cable and a quick reference card. Full command set manual (VISA-0035416-UM) is available from the manufacturer. This unit is in stock at PLC2DAY (reference #0035416).
