Why choose Communica for displays?
Get the display module you actually need - not a confusing list of near-identical part numbers. Communica keeps a broad range of displays in local stock so South African makers, students and technicians can move from prototype to classroom demo or production faster. Benefit from branch pickup, VAT invoicing for institution accounts, and in-person advice at Samrand, Pretoria CBD or Cape Town.
Common display types we stock and when to use them
- Character LCDs (16x2, 20x4): low-cost text output for menus and simple readouts.
- Monochrome OLED: high contrast for low-power wearable or battery projects.
- Colour TFT (SPI / parallel): high-resolution graphics for GUIs and touch overlays.
- ePaper (EPD): long-term static displays with minimal power draw (ideal for signage).
- Segment and VFD displays: legacy readouts and specialist applications.
Each type has trade-offs: refresh speed, viewing angle, power draw and interfacing complexity. We publish real specs on product pages so you can match a module to the project constraints - for example, a battery-powered sensor node usually pairs with an OLED or ePaper panel rather than a backlit TFT.
Specification callouts that matter
When comparing modules, focus on these fields: resolution, interface (I2C/SPI/parallel), supply voltage, active area, viewing angle, and whether a module includes a controller (e.g., SSD1306, ST7735, ILI9341). Here’s a quick reference table to compare typical modules:
| Type | Typical Resolution | Common Controllers | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Character LCD | - (chars) | HD44780 | Simple text displays |
| OLED | 128x64 | SSD1306 | Low-power, high-contrast |
| TFT | 320x240+ | ILI9341, ST7789 | Rich graphics, touch |
| ePaper | varies | Ilitek, GoodDisplay | Static signage, low power |
If you are unsure which controller is on a module, check the product listing on our All Products page or browse by category on Collections to see datasheets and pinouts.
Compatibility and wiring basics
Most modern modules use 3.3V logic; some older or parallel-interface displays expect 5V. Driving a 3.3V display from 5V logic can damage the controller - use a level shifter or choose a 5V-tolerant module. Typical SPI wiring (3.3V example):
MOSI -> DIN / SDASCLK -> SCKCS -> CSDC -> DC / A0RST -> RSTGND -> GND3V3 -> VCC
For quick compatibility checks, bring the controller name (e.g., ILI9341) into the product search on our Shop by Brand page to find matching modules and trusted manufacturer pages.
