OtsploUs netus

Large-scale LCD module for industry The launch of a large-scale 48- character LCD module has been announced by the Regisbrook Group. The MDL-24269 from The Varitronix Copany is claimed to provide a readily available alterna- tive solution in a number of indust- rial display applications.

The MDL-24269 packages a large-scale easy-to-read display into a compact package, the single cir- cuit board measuring just 190 mm x 42mm x l l m m in depth. The viewing area is a full 159.3mm x 20.0mm and features a total of 48 characters arranged in two lines of 24. The module is available with a choice of 5 x 7 dot or 5 x 8 dot matrices - the smaller characters measuring 5.4 mm x 7.6 mm, while the larger extend to 8.7mm in

height and offer better definition and readability.

In use, the module accepts signals from any suitable host system over an industrial standard 4- or 8-bit data bus. Incoming positional and display definition data is managed to the module's own controller which significantly reduces operat- ing demands on the host system. The MDL-24269 incorporates its own character generator to provide a complete upper and lower-case ASCII set along with a range of special graphics characters.

The MDL-24269 taks advantage of efficient low-power CMOS tech- nology and surface mount compo- nents, and the standard LV version requires only a single 5 V DC power supply. Current requirements are

typically just 0.5 mA during opera- tion. The module accepts an optio- nal Varitronix electroluminescent backlighting panel to equip it for use in low light conditions.

The standard version of the mod- ule provides positive black charac- ters over a clear background, but an alternative offers clear characters reversed out of a black screen. Both types are available with 6 o'clock or reversed 12 o'clock viewing. All the options in the range are available from the Regisbrook Group which fully supports all Varitronix LCD technology in the UK.

Regisbrook Group, Units 1 & 2, Soffolk Way, Drayton Rd, Abing- don, Oxon OX14 5JY, UK. Tel: (0235) 34909; Telex: 83428 []

Waterproof LED indicators are modified

Bulgin's standard range of water- proof LED indicators has been expanded to include three models with a frosted lens cap to protect T13/4 size LEDs.

Fully waterproof to IP66, the indicators come in a choice of finishes - matt black, chrome or satin anodized - and are designed with an internal sealing ring and sealing washer fitted behind the bezel, mounting into a 8mm dia- meter panel hole.

The range has a choice of three LED coiours: red, green and yellow/amber. Operating tempera- ture is -40°C to +70°C with storage temperature of -55°C to + 100°C.

Bulgin also produces waterproof and nonsealed LED indicators in a choice of concacve or convex bezels using 4mm, T13/4 and 8mm size LEDs. The waterproof indicators are compatible with a comprehen- sive range of waterproof compo- nents manufactured by Bulgin,

which includes fuseholders, switches, switch seals and connec- tors.

A F Bulgin & Co. plc, Bypass Rd, barking, Essex IGll OAZ, UK. Tel: (01) 594 5588; Telex: 897255 []

Reducing reflection in fiat-panel displays

Optical coating specialists, OCLI, have addressed the problem of sur- face reflection in fiat-panel dis- plays, with their new Custom Designed Circular Polarisers (CDCPs). According to the com- pany, up to 98% of reflection can be neutralized with this product.

The CDCP is applied to glass

laminate structures, enabling the polarizer to be combined with the durable glass-coated elements, resulting in a wide choice of coating options. Typical of these are stand- alone laminated composites, band- pass filters and HEA or ITO coat- ings (etched or nonetched surfa- ces). Low ohm ITO coating is char- acterized by very low resistivity and high transmission performance (0.211).

This product, according to a com- pany spokesman, exhibits good environmental stability, together with proven tolerances for altitude, humidity and extremes of tempera- ture.

Ginsbury Electronics Ltd, 108 High St, Strood, Rochester, Kent ME2 4TR, UK. Tel: (0634) 290040; Fax: (0634) 290904

244 DISPLA YS, OCTOBE R 1989