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Modified NK204-V power cable

DB-9 cable connectors

The 4 pin power cable supplied by the unit has been specially modified by Matrix Orbital to provide power to the NK204-V. The 4 pin connector is very similar to a floppy cable power connector but don't be fooled by appearances as the orientation of the 12v and ground lines has been changed. Matrix Orbital does provide instructions on the CD on how to create your own 5v and open wide voltage cables. The DB-9 straight through cable consists of one female connector which attaches directly to the LCD and one male connector which attaches to any free COM port. One option that I would have liked to see included with the DB-9 cable was a serial bypass cable option when mounting the NK204-V inside a case. The connector on the DB-9 cable is too large enough to fit through a standard PCI bracket which means a little modding will be required.

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The NK204-V 20x4 Serial LCD provides 4 rows of 20 characters across a 76.3mm(L) x 25.0mm(W) display screen. For comparison I placed the NK204-V next to a Crystalfontz 634 20x4 Serial LCD unit. Equally both units in the mounting brackets are the same size, although the display screen for the Crystalfontz 634 is slightly larger measuring 130mm (L) x 63mm (H).

NK204-V 20x4 Serial LCD

Optional keypad and GPO connectors

A closer look at the back of the NK204-V reveals an assortment of expandable options. Towards the middle left of the LCD are 6 header pins labeled G1-G6. These header pins are known as General Purpose Outputs and by using the right application software can be programmed to control devices with voltages ranging 25mA @ +5V. The best way to explain this unique feature is to think of it as a mini baybus with specific limitations. If one wished to power voltages higher than +5V, Matrix Orbital provides a higher GPO performing LCD in the LK204-25-PC. The NK204-V can be modified by adding a relay, mosfet or transistor. Schematics on how to complete this process are available in the Matrix Orbital Forums. Towards the bottom left of the LCD (Pin-1) is a set of 10 header pins for adding in an optional keypad. Unfortunately the product designation "NK" in the NK204-V model number means no keypad is included with this kit and will have to be purchased seperately. Consumers who wish to use this option should be advised that Matrix Orbital does not provide keypad technical support for this model.