TM1638 8-Bit Button Digital LED Display Module

TM1638 8-Bit Button Digital LED Display Module is an integrated user interface solution that combines essential input and output functionalities, making it highly efficient for microcontroller projects. This powerful module features an 8-digit, high-brightness 7-segment LED display, 8 individual push buttons, and 8 discrete status LEDs, all managed effortlessly by the dedicated TM1638 driver chip. Consequently, engineers can manage all these display and input elements using only three shared data lines, dramatically simplifying complex I/O tasks for host processors. Furthermore, this integration drastically reduces wiring complexity and minimizes the required GPIO pins on microcontrollers like Arduino or ESP32. This module offers an ideal, compact solution for quickly developing interactive control panels.

Key Features:

• High Integration: Combines an 8-digit 7-segment display, 8 keys, and 8 discrete LEDs into one single, ready-to-use module.
• Minimal I/O Pins: Utilizes a 3-wire serial interface (STB, CLK, DIO) to control all functions, saving valuable microcontroller I/O resources.
• Driver IC: Employs the TM1638 LED drive control special circuit chip, managing all display scanning and key reading internally.
• Dynamic Scanning: The built-in circuitry handles dynamic display scanning and key matrix reading, freeing the host MCU from time-intensive processing.
• Display Brightness: Allows software control over the LED display brightness via the module’s driver IC.

Technical Specifications:

• Operating Voltage (V_CC): 3.3 V to 5 V DC (Compatible with most microcontrollers)
• Display Type: 8-Digit Common Cathode 7-Segment Display
• Driver IC: TM1638 (Keyboard and LED Driver)
• Input Keys: 8 independent push buttons
• Interface: 3-Wire Serial Communication (SPI-like protocol)
• LED Color: Typically Red (or Green, depending on stock)

Mechanical Specifications:

• PCB Material: FR-4 High-Quality PCB
• Mounting: Includes four fixing holes (M2 size) for easy integration into enclosures.
• Connectors: 8-pin male header for I/O connections.
• Operating Temperature: −20°C to +70°C (Typical commercial range)

Dimensions:

• Module Length: ≈ 75 mm
• Module Width: ≈ 48 mm
• Mounting Hole Diameter: ≈ 2.2 mm
• Weight: ≈ 25 g (Lightweight for portable applications)

Pinout and Wiring:

• VCC: Connect to the 5V or 3.3V power supply of your microcontroller.
• GND: Connect to the common ground (0 V) of the system.
• STB (Strobe): This pin acts as the Chip Select; pull it LOW to start data transfer and HIGH to end it.
• CLK (Clock): The shift clock signal synchronizes the data transfer between the MCU and the TM1638.
• DIO (Data I/O): This bidirectional pin transmits control commands, display data to the TM1638, and reads button data back to the MCU.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download Titan Micro TM1638 Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• DIY Electronics Projects: Provides a versatile I/O solution for hobbyists and students using Arduino or STM32 boards.
• Instrumentation: Serves as a compact front panel for digital frequency counters, timers, and small measuring devices.
• Interactive Keypads: Used extensively in custom keypad interfaces where both visual feedback and user input are necessary.

Applications:

• Multi-Function Digital Clocks: Developers use it to display time and allow users to set alarms and modes via the integrated buttons.
• Home Automation Controllers: It acts as a control interface for managing lighting zones or displaying status codes in small control boxes.
• Embedded Teaching Systems: Therefore, educators incorporate it into learning kits due to its ease of programming and immediate visual feedback.

Equivalent Models:

• MAX7219/MAX7221: While the MAX chips handle LED display driving (similar display type), they however lack the integrated key scanning functionality of the TM1638.
• HT16K33: Another dedicated LED driver IC, but it requires an external button matrix interface to achieve the full functionality of the TM1638 module.

Package Includes:

• 1 x TM1638 8-Bit Button Digital LED Display Module