GC9A01 7P 240X240 SPI 1.28 Inch Round Display Module

GC9A01 7P 240X240 SPI 1.28 Inch Round Display Module offers a vibrant and crisp visual interface for modern embedded projects that require a unique circular form factor. This display utilizes high-definition IPS technology, which ensures wide viewing angles and accurate color reproduction across its 240×240 pixel resolution. Furthermore, the integrated GC9A01 driver chip simplifies the communication process by using a standard 4-wire SPI interface. Consequently, you can easily connect this module to popular microcontrollers such as ESP32, Arduino, and Raspberry Pi Pico without exhausting your GPIO pins. Therefore, this module represents an ideal choice for designers looking to create sleek, professional-grade wearable devices or circular industrial gauges.

Key Features:

• IPS Display Panel: The In-Plane Switching technology provides superior color consistency and wide viewing angles of up to 178°.
• High Pixel Density: A 240×240 resolution packed into a 1.28-inch diameter creates sharp icons and legible text for small-scale interfaces.
• Simplified SPI Interface: It employs a 4-wire Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI), reducing the required wiring and complexity for high-speed data transfer.
• Built-in Driver: The internal GC9A01 controller handles all display logic, which minimizes the processing overhead on the host microcontroller.
• Vibrant Backlighting: Integrated white LEDs provide adjustable brightness, ensuring the screen remains readable even in well-lit environments.

Technical Specifications:

• Display Type: 1.28-inch Round IPS LCD
• Resolution: 240 (RGB) × 240 Pixels
• Controller IC: GC9A01
• Interface: 4-Wire SPI
• Operating Voltage: 3.3 V to 5.0 V (Compatible with 3.3V logic levels)
• Display Colors: 65K / 262K Full Color RGB
• Backlight: 2 Parallel White LEDs

Mechanical Specifications:

• Connection Type: 7-Pin Header (2.54 mm pitch)
• Panel Material: TFT (IPS)
• Viewing Direction: All directions (Full viewing angle)
• Durability: Rugged PCB backing designed for secure mounting in custom enclosures.

Dimensions:

• Module Size: ≈ 44 mm (Length) × 36 mm (Width)
• Active Area Diameter: 32.4 mm
• PCB Thickness: ≈ 1.6 mm
• Weight: ≈ 15 g

Pinout and Wiring:

• Pin 1 (VCC): Power supply input (typically 3.3V).
• Pin 2 (GND): Ground connection.
• Pin 3 (SCL): SPI Clock pin for data synchronization.
• Pin 4 (SDA): SPI Data Input (MOSI) for transmitting graphical data.
• Pin 5 (RES): Reset pin; pull low to reset the display controller.
• Pin 6 (DC): Data/Command selection pin.
• Pin 7 (BLK): Backlight control pin (PWM compatible for dimming).

Datasheet Reference:

• Download GC9A01 Controller Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Smart Watches: The circular design perfectly fits the aesthetic requirements of wearable technology.
• Digital Gauges: Engineers frequently use this module to replicate traditional analog dials in automotive or industrial dashboards.
• IoT Nodes: Ideal for displaying local sensor data in a compact and visually appealing format.

Applications:

• Health Monitoring: Displaying heart rate, steps, or oxygen levels in medical prototypes.
• Home Automation: Serving as a thermostat or lighting control interface with a modern look.
• Robotics: Acting as a “face” or status indicator for small-scale mobile robots.

Equivalent Models:

• Waveshare 1.28inch LCD Module: A similar breakout board featuring the same GC9A01 driver and resolution.
• ST7789 Round Series: However, note that the ST7789 often requires different library initialization despite the similar appearance.
• Adafruit 1.28″ TFT: A premium alternative providing similar SPI functionality and circular form factor.

Package Includes:

• 1 x GC9A01 7P 240X240 SPI 1.28 Inch Round Display Module