I'm planning to use this Serial Enabled Kit from Sparkfun, which is actually a separate Arduino chip working as the LCD driver. I will use Hardware serial from my primary UNO to communicate with it. I have a 4x4 keypad next to the LCD, and want to have the LCD backpack take care of that, too. I'll be using all custom PCBs w/SMD components.
I am wanting/needing a very reliable/solid connection on this project.
I've seen some wires looping thru a ferite ring to cut down on interference. I'll have 4 wires going from my primary board to the LCD backpack board, at about 12" long. +5V, GND, Tx, & Rx. Would it benefit to run them thru a ferite core like this one?
To connect this keypad to the LCD backpack, I'm thinking of using a stock 6" ethernet cable. It'll give a solid locking connection, and won't be as fragile as the 8 pin header on the back of the keypad. I'll just make a small board that solders to the back of the keypad that connects the pins to an RJ45 Jack.
Durability & long life is important in this project. Does anyone see any issues with this setup? It'll be enclosed, and in an indoor environment.
Thanks.