Hello :), I am currently working on a project with an Arduino Mega2560 and have installed a 3.5"-TFT-LCD-Shield (without touch and with an SD card). Now, I want to connect and LoRa module and a GPS module in addition to the shield.
My question:
Is it technically possible to operate all three components (TFT shield, LoRa, GPS) simultaneously on the Mega2560?
If yes, which modules are best suited, and how can I connect them without causing pin conflicts?
Mega has plenty of pins and multiple hardware serial ports. Difficult to immagine that you get in trouble with 3 devices. Obviously be aware that arduino is not a power supply and that Mega has 5V operating voltage. So any component that operates at 3.3V logic level needs level shifters with Mega.
There is no one "best". It depends on your requirements, and (often more importantly) what is actually available where you are and fits in your budget.
I can imagine getting into trouble. Shields in general are notorious for blocking ports and preventing the sharing of ports. But of course there are well-designed shields and there are badly designed shields.
@m3ga2560 it is your task to research possible components. If you post links to their detailed specs here (links that include, for example, the internal schematic of the shields/modules), the forum can advise which are compatible choices.
If you're planning on using the uSD card, don't forget that the SPI pins aren't on 10-13 on the Mega. It's software SPI or bending pins out and flywires.
Also, it's a rare display shield in that footprint that has level shifters on the uSD card anyhow. Some make a token effort using series resistors on SCK, SS and MOSI, but most just take the signal lines straight through to the card holder. 5V signals; 3.3V card. Oops.
I'm working on a project with the following components:
Arduino Mega 2560
3.5" TFT LCD Shield (ILI9486)
GPS Module BN220
LoRa Module RYLR896
Does this combination of components make sense in terms of compatibility and functionality?
Since the Arduino Mega operates at 5V logic levels, I want to know if I can use a single logic level converter for all TX/RX connections between the Arduino and the modules, or if I need a separate converter for each module.
I understand that the RX pins of the 3.3V modules need protection from the Arduino's 5V signals, but can one converter handle multiple connections, or is it safer to use one for each module?