Dive into seamless development with the gen4-ESP32 Smart Display, featuring powerful development software and an intuitive ESP32-based platform. Transform your ideas into reality quickly with our readily available starter kit. Start your journey now with just a 4-minute read!
MARTIN BRESTOVIČ SOS electronic Product Specialist More articles from the author
What advantages does the 4D Systems gen4-ESP32 display series bring?
4D Systems’ intelligent displays have been part of many applications worldwide for many years. However, the manufacturer is introducing a completely new series of TFT modules based on the well-known ESP32 S3R8 chip, enabling easy Wi-Fi connectivity for the new display modules.
The good news is that their development software, 4D Workshop4 IDE, can be used even with the new series, providing a strong and comprehensive tool for the fast development of graphic applications.
If you are preparing a new project, these intelligent displays can become the core of the entire application. However, they are also suitable for already launched projects, as they can significantly expand the capabilities of your application.
Key parameters and features of the gen4-ESP32 series
4D Systems’ TFT modules are available in sizes 2.4″, 2.8″, 3.2″, and 3.5″; 4.3″, 5.0″, 7.0″, and 9.0″. Larger display types from 4.3″ and above are equipped with an RTC chip (real-time clock) with a backup battery, further expanding the wide range of possible applications where accurate real-time information is essential.
Other important features are UART, SPI, I2C, PWM, and analog interfaces, support for microSD cards, and native USB-C.
As we are used to with the 4D Systems brand, most modules are available in versions without a touch panel, with a resistive or capacitive touch panel, and also a version with a capacitive touch panel with an extended black glass part on the sides (CLB – cover lens bezel). All options can be found in SOS electronic product range.
Compatibility with older series based on Picasso and Diablo 16
If you have applications written for older types of 4D Systems displays based on graphic chips Picasso or Diablo 16, you may not be pleased to know that this software is not compatible with the new modules based on ESP32 due to a completely different chip architecture. Nevertheless, there are reportedly some similarities, and the manufacturer has committed to assisting in migration in such cases. If needed, please don’t hesitate to contact SOS electronic, and we will be happy to help you.
How to get started with gen4-ESP32?
To begin development with the new generation modules based on ESP32, we recommend using the gen4-ESP32-50CT-CLB Starter Kit from 4D Systems, which includes:
- GEN4-ESP32-xx module
- gen4-Breakout module
- 4D-UPA programmer (REV 1.4)
- 30-way FFC cable (4D-FFC-150)
- Wi-Fi antenna
- 4GB Industrial microSD Card
gen4-ESP32-50CT-CLB Starter Kit (SK-GEN4-ESP32-50CT-CLB)
Starter Kit for gen4-ESP32-50CT-CLB with 4D-UPA, 30-way FFC cable (4D-FFC-150), gen4-Breakout module, WiFi Antenna and 4GB Industrial microSD Card.
Selected TFT modules by 4D Systems based on ESP32 can be found in SOS electronic product range as stock items, immediately available for your projects. They can also arrange other types for you upon order, in a short period, and under advantageous conditions directly from the manufacturer.
Are you interested in more information about 4D Systems products or do you need technical advice in selecting a product? Or do you have any other questions or requests? Please contact SOS electronic.
