After the success of the RC2014 Assembly v1.0 last year, holding another one this year seemed like the obvious thing to do. But what was less obvious was how to improve on last years badge. The winning idea was to make it look like a 16×2 LCD module.
How to use
Simple Mode
Use a Sharpie to write your name on the white area of the badge and hang it from a lanyard.
Advanced Mode
As the extra holes suggest, this badge can be upgraded in to a functional LCD module.
The upgrade kit consists of
1 1602 LCD Display
1 40 pin RA header
1 74HCT688
1 74HCT86
1 74HCT02
1 74HCT245
2 20 pin narrow DIL socket
2 14 pin narrow DIL socket
3 100nf
1 100r resistor
2 10k micro pot
1 16 pin header
1 16 pin header
4 M3 Nylon Nut
2 M3 Nylon 12mm
Whilst assembly of the Assembly Badge is pretty straight forward, there are a couple of things to be aware of. Firstly, all the components except for the LCD screen are assembled on the reverse of the PCB to keep a clean finish. Secondly, the order of component fitment is important.
The screen needs to be the last item fitted, as this blocks access to some of the ICs behind it. Firstly, fit all the IC sockets, caps, resistor, pots and 40 pin header. (For bonus points, use the Boldport Soldering Technique for beautiful viable solder joints).
Then add the M3 12mm screws to the top two LCD holes and fit a nut between each one. Then carefully align the screen with the 16 pin header and the PCB. Note that the screen needs to stand off of the board to clear the pins of the components underneath it. Use the other two M3 nuts on the reverse side of the PCB and solder the header in from both sides.
This module is a simplified version of the LCD Driver Module and the instructions there can be referred to for use. It is also worth taking a look at Programming the RC2014 Front Panel in BASIC and Programming the RC2014 Front Panel in Z80 Assembly by Bruce Hall along with his code on Github
