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[on:]

I  recived a sparkfun 3.3v LCD and was siked!   but after talking with a friend he relised that it was 3.3v and the arduino is 5v!!:~  help????

[Reply #1 on:]

The LCD you got is intended for 3.3V arduino boards. I suggest, if possible, swap it for a 5V LCD. Sparkfun is decent when it comes to customer requests.

Or otherwise, invest a little on this one, second item on the list. It's cheap. I haven't heard complaints about this part

[Reply #2 on:]

but there isnt another way? 

[Reply #3 on:]

3.3V voltage regulator + a bunch of logic level converters is more costly than buying a new display. I don't know of other ways.

[Reply #4 on:]

what about transistors? like base on the dgit pin and colector and emiter on 3.3v and LCD?????

[Reply #5 on:]

Did you pay with your arm and leg for that display? You're trying to make unnecessarily hard. I would just go and get a regular one.

[Reply #6 on:]

no it was like $13 but im young and dont have much monney

[Reply #7 on:]

OK I understand. Can you return it for a swap then? What you proposed could work but you will spend too much time trying to make it work or worse damage the lcd or arduino. I would save some money to buy a 5V while trying to return or sell the 3.3V lcd if I were you.

[Reply #8 on:]

good idea, thanks

[Reply #9 on:]

Looking forward, if you plan to play with some 3.3v components, you may want to consider
a different arduino board like the seeeduino.
http://www.seeedstudio.com/depot/seeeduino-v221-atmega-328p-p-669.html?cPath=132_133&zenid=f353551d840948a31981c7e0cdf81134
It is fully compatible with the official board, but has many added features
like switchable 5v vs 3.3v power.
It is a much better alternative/value than the official arduino for those that want to use
3.3v or create their own custom shields using proto/strip boards.
The standard arduino connector spacing is incompatible with standard proto/strip boards
but the seeeduino has both sets of connectors, so you can use both standard arduino
shields or standard proto/strip boards.

If you are looking to save money by making your own shields, the seeeduino, can
quickly pay off in the long run.

--- bill