4Discovery-35
W W W . 4 D S Y S T E M S . C O M . A U
Wall Mounted Intelligent Display Module
DATASHEET
DOCUMENT DATE: 2nd August 2019
DOCUMENT REVISION: 2.2
Uncontrolled Copy when printed or downloaded.
Please refer to the 4D Systems website for the latest
Revision of this document
Table of Contents
4Discovery-35 Page 2 of 27 www.4dsystems.com.au
Table of Contents
1. Description ...................................................................................................................4
2. Features .......................................................................................................................4
3. RJ45 Pin Configuration and Summary ............................................................................5
4. Hardware Interface - Pins ..............................................................................................6
4.1. Serial Ports – RS85 ......................................................................................................... 6
4.2. System Pins .................................................................................................................... 6
5. PmmC/Firmware Programming .....................................................................................7
6. Module Features ..........................................................................................................7
6.1. Display – 3.5” TFT Touch Screen .................................................................................... 7
6.2. DIABLO16 Processor ...................................................................................................... 7
6.3. SD/SDHC Memory Cards ................................................................................................ 8
6.4. FAT16 ............................................................................................................................. 8
6.5. Serial Flash Memory ...................................................................................................... 8
6.6. Real Time Clock .............................................................................................................. 9
6.7. Crypto Authentication ................................................................................................... 9
6.8. Piezo Buzzer ................................................................................................................... 9
6.9. Universal Mounting Options .......................................................................................... 9
6.10. Removable Front Cover ................................................................................................. 10
6.11. Removable Display subassembly ................................................................................... 10
7. Display Precautions .................................................................................................... 11
8. Hardware Tools .......................................................................................................... 11
8.1. 4D 485 Programmer ...................................................................................................... 11
9. Software Overview- Language ..................................................................................... 12
10. 4D Systems - Workshop 4 IDE ...................................................................................... 12
10.1. Workshop4 - Designer ................................................................................................... 13
10.2. Workshop4 - ViSi ........................................................................................................... 13
10.3. Workshop4 – ViSi Genie ................................................................................................ 13
10.4. ViSi-Genie Limitations .................................................................................................... 14
10.5. Workshop4 - Serial ........................................................................................................ 14
11. Connecting to External Hardware ................................................................................ 15
11.1. Master and Slaves .......................................................................................................... 15
11.2. 4Discovery as a Host ...................................................................................................... 16
Table of Contents
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11.3. 4Discovery as a Slave ..................................................................................................... 17
11.4. 4Discovery Multiple Masters ......................................................................................... 18
11.5. Programming 4Discovery............................................................................................... 19
11.6. Termination Resistors .................................................................................................... 20
12. Mechanical Details...................................................................................................... 21
13. Schematic Details - HW REV 2.7 ................................................................................... 22
14. Schematic Details - HW REV 4.0 ................................................................................... 23
15. Schematic Details - HW REV 4.2 ................................................................................... 24
16. Specifications ............................................................................................................. 25
17. Hardware Revision History .......................................................................................... 26
18. Datasheet Revision History ......................................................................................... 26
19. Legal Notice ................................................................................................................ 27
20. Contact Information ................................................................................................... 27
Wall Mounted Intelligent Display Module
4Discovery-35 Page 4 of 27 www.4dsystems.com.au
1. Description
The 4Discovery is a high resolution 480x320 pixel
3.5” Intelligent wall mounted display product
from 4D Systems, featuring the DIABLO16
Processor.
The 4Discovery is designed to be mounted to a
standard light switch flush/mounting box, or
directly onto a panel or wall. This universal
mounting enables quick and easy installation
almost anywhere, such as on to a wall or into an
enclosure or panel, enabling a wide range of
customers to take advantage of this display
product.
Driving the display and peripherals is the
DIABLO16 processor, a very capable and
powerful chip which enables stand-alone
functionality, programmed using the 4D Systems
Workshop 4 IDE Software. The Workshop IDE
enables graphic solutions to be constructed
rapidly and with ease due to its design being
solely for 4D’s graphics processors.
The 4Discovery has an array of features including
a 3.5” 320x480 TFT LCD Display, Resistive Touch,
micro-SD memory storage, 2 wire RS485
Interface which can act as Master or Slave with
additional changeover wire, and a switch-mode
power supply enabling a wide input voltage
range, along with many more features.
Anything that has been designed to run on a
PICASO or DIABLO16 module can theoretically
run on this 4Discovery with minor changes.
Please ensure you contact the 4D Systems’
support team if unsure changing over from a 4D
Systems’ module to this 4Discovery.
2. Features
• Powerful 3.5” Intelligent LCD-TFT display module
powered by DIABLO16.
• 480x320 HVGA Resolution, RGB 65K true to life
colours, TFT Screen with integrated 4-wire Resistive
Touch Panel.
• Programmed over RS485 using a special
programmer designed specifically for the
4Discovery.
• 6 banks of 32750 bytes of Flash memory for User
Application Code and Data
• 32Kb of SRAM purely for the User.
• On-board micro-SD memory card connector for
multimedia storage and data logging purposes. HC
memory card support is also available for cards
larger than 4GB.
• DOS compatible file access (FAT16 format) as well as
low level access to microSD card memory.
• Display full colour images, animations, icons and
video clips on chosen 4D Systems display.
• Supports all available Windows fonts.
• 5.0V or 6.3V to 36V input voltage range operation
(single supply).
• Module dimensions: 74.0 x 117.0 x 21.7mm
• Weight approximately 80g.
• Display Viewing Area: 48.96 x 73.44mm
• Easily mounted to the wall using a standard light
switch flush/mounting box, or can be mounted in an
enclosure/panel or virtually any flat drillable
surface.
• Compatible with Clipsal/HPM mounting blocks,
18mm or thicker, if the 4Discovery needs to be
offset from the wall (useful for concrete block walls
etc).
• RoHS and CE Compliant
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3. RJ45 Pin Configuration and Summary
I = Input, O = Output, P = Power
RJ45 Pinout
Pin
Symbol
I/O
Description
1
VIN
P
6.3V to 36VDC Input. Recommended range is 12V to 24V. This is the primary
power source of the 4Discovery.
2
A
I/O
485 A Signal (non-Inverting) pulled to 3.3V internally, terminated to B with
120ohm.
3
B
I/O
485 B Signal (Inverting), pulled to GND internally, terminated to A with 120ohm.
4
GND
P
System Ground, relevant to VIN and 5V_IN
5
GND
P
System Ground, relevant to VIN and 5V_IN
6
5V_IN
P
5.0VDC Input. This is typically only used to power the 4Discovery from the 4D
485 Programmer, however can be used to power the 4Discovery if a higher
voltage power source into VIN is not available. Should be in the range of 4.5V to
5.5V, nominal 5.0V
7
TURN
I
Primarily used by the 4D 485 Programmer in conjunction to programming the
4Discovery, however can also be from an external device which is acting as Host
when 4Discovery is programmed to be a slave. This is an input only to the
4Discovery. When 4Discovery is a Master, the slaves have to determine the
direction of transmit/receive themselves using an Auto Turnaround 485 IC or
circuit.
8
RESET
I
Reset signal used by the 4D 485 Programmer. Can be used by an external device
if the 4Discovery needs to be reset. Active Low.
PIN 1 PIN 8
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4. Hardware Interface - Pins
The 4Discovery provides both a hardware and
software interface. This section describes in detail
the hardware interface pins of the device.
4.1. Serial Ports – RS85
The 4Discovery provides one asynchronous serial port
which interfaces via the RJ45 port, and communicates
using the RS485 protocol.
This serial port is used for both communications to
various devices on the RS485 bus, but also for the
programming of the 4Discovery itself, using the 4D
485 Programmer.
A MAX3430 RS485 IC is used inside the 4Discovery, to
provide the RS485 interface, signals A and B.
The primary features are:
Full-Duplex 8 bit data transmission and
reception.
Data format: 8 bits, No Parity, 1 Stop bit.
Baud rates from 300 baud up to 250K baud.
Single byte transmits and receives or a fully
buffered service. The buffered service feature
runs in the background capturing and
buffering serial data without the user
application having to constantly poll any of
the serial ports. This frees up the application
to service other tasks.
A single byte serial transmission consists of the
start bit, 8-bits of data followed by the stop bit.
The start bit is always 0, while a stop bit is always
1. The LSB (Least Significant Bit, Bit 0) is sent out
first following the start bit. Image below shows a
single byte transmission timing diagram.
4.2. System Pins
VIN (Primary Voltage Input)
Pin 1:
4Discovery supply voltage input pin. This pin must be
supplied between 7.0VDC and 30VDC, and these must
not be exceeded. Typical voltages are between 12V
and 24VDC. If this pin is not used, a 5VDC source can
be applied to pin 6 instead.
A (485 A Signal)
Pin 2:
This is the A signal used by the 2 wire RS485 bus on the
4Discovery. This signal is internally pulled up to 3.3V to
prevent a floating bus, and is terminated to the B signal
with a 120ohm resistor.
B (485 A Signal)
Pin 3:
This is the B signal used by the 2 wire RS485 bus on the
4Discovery. This signal is internally pulled down to
GND to prevent a floating bus, and is terminated to the
A signal with a 120ohm resistor.
GND (Module Ground)
Pins 4, 5:
Device ground pins. At least one of these pins must be
connected to ground.
5V_IN (Secondary Voltage Input)
Pin 6:
4Discovery supply voltage input pin. This pin is
typically used by the 4D 485 Programmer when
programming from USB of a PC, however it can also be
used in the case a suitable voltage cannot be applied
to VIN. Supply to his pin must be between 4.5V to 5.5V
DC. Nominal operating voltage is 5.0 Volts. Note:
Backlight brightness will be lower for voltages under
5.0V.
TURN (485 Turn Around Pin)
Pin 7:
Primarily used by the 4D 485 Programmer in
conjunction to programming the 4Discovery, however
can also be from an external device which is acting as
Host when 4Discovery is programmed to be a slave.
This is an input only to the 4Discovery. When
4Discovery is a Master, the slaves have to determine
the direction of transmit/receive themselves using an
Auto Turnaround 485 IC or circuit.
RESET (Module Master Reset)
Pin 8:
Reset signal used by the 4D 485 Programmer. This can
be used by an external device if the 4Discovery needs
to be reset. Active Low.
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5. PmmC/Firmware Programming
The 4Discovery features a 4D Systems DIABLO16
processor, which is a custom graphics processor. All
functionality including the high level commands are
built into the chip. This chip level configuration is
available as a PmmC (Personality-module-micro-Code)
file, which can be likened to traditional Firmware.
There is also a Display Driver file, which separates
specific display settings from the PmmC.
A PmmC file contains all of the low level micro-code
information (analogy of that of a soft silicon) which
define the characteristics and functionality of the
device. The ability of programming the device with a
PmmC file provides an extremely flexible method of
customising as well as upgrading it with future
enhancements.
The Display Driver contains the initialisation and
parameters associated with the particular display that
is to be connected to the DIABLO16 processor.
The PmmC file and Display Driver file can only be
programmed into the device using the RJ45 connector,
using the 4D 485 Programmer with the aid of
Workshop 4, the 4D Systems IDE software.
No other RS485 device will be able to program the
4Discovery, the 4D 485 Programmer must be used.
6. Module Features
The 4Discovery is designed to accommodate a range
of wall or enclosure mounted applications.
Some of the main features of the 4Discovery are listed
below.
6.1. Display – 3.5” TFT Touch Screen
The 4Discovery is equipped with a 3.5” TFT
display. Details of the display are listed below:
Screen Size: 3.5” diagonal, 320x480 resolution, 65K
colours
Integrated 4-Wire Resistive Touch Screen
Viewing Area: 48.96 x 73.44mm
Pixel Pitch: 0.153(H) x 0.153(V)mm
Brightness: 220cd/m2
Contrast Ratio: 500:1
Viewing Angle Above Centre: 65 degrees
Viewing Angle Below Centre: 45 degrees
Viewing Angle Left of Centre: 60 degrees
Viewing Angle Right of Centre: 60 degrees
Viewing Direction: 12 O'clock
7 LEDs for Backlighting
Note: The Displays used are the highest rated ‘Grade
A’ Displays, which allow for 0-4 defective pixels. A
defective pixel could be solid Black (Dead), White,
Red, Green or Blue.
6.2. DIABLO16 Processor
The 4Discovery is designed around the DIABLO16
Graphics Controller from 4D-Labs.
The DIABLO16 is a smart Controller and the interface
to the TFT- LCD displays is almost plug-n-play.
All of the data and control signals are provided by the
chip to interface directly to the display.
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Powerful graphics, text, image, animation and
countless more features are built right inside the chip.
The data sheet for the processor is available from the
http://www.4dsystems.com.au website:
“DIABLO16-Processor-Datasheet-REVx.pdf”
6.3. SD/SDHC Memory Cards
The 4Discovery supports micro-SD memory cards via
the on-board micro-SD connector. The memory card is
used for all multimedia file
retrieval such as images,
animations and movie
clips. The memory card
can also be used as
general purpose storage
for data logging
applications. Support is available for off the shelf
micro-SD (up to 2GB) and high capacity SDHC memory
cards (4GB and above).
Note: A microSD card capable of SPI is a requirement
for all 4D Systems’ display modules powered by
Goldelox, Picaso or Diablo16 Processors. If a non-SPI
compatible card is used, it will simply fail to mount, or
may cause intermittent issues resulting in lock ups and
crashing of the application. Please refer to the 4D
Systems website for microSD cards offered by 4D
Systems.
The micro-SD card can be used as an update medium
for the 4Discovery, in conjunction with suitable
application code being written. The microSD card can
be mounted and used to update the application(s)
stored on the onboard Flash of Diablo16. This is useful
to roll out updates without having to reprogram the
4Discovery. This however is not able to update the
PmmC/Firmware or Display Driver. These must still be
updated via the RS485 Programmer or over the
network with suitable Host code.
The 4Discovery features a Card Detect on the microSD
socket, which can be utilised by the User in their
application, to determine if a microSD card is inserted
or not.
PA11 – Card Detect
PA11 is Active Low when a card is detected, and High
when no card is detected.
6.4. FAT16
The uLCD-35DT Module uses off the shelf standard
SDHC/SD/micro-SD memory cards with up to 4GB
capacity usable with FAT16 formatting. For any FAT file
related operations, before the memory card can be
used it must first be formatted with FAT16 option. The
formatting of the card can be done on any PC system
with a card reader. Select the appropriate drive and
choose the FAT16 (or just FAT in some systems) option
when formatting. The card is now ready to be used in
the DIABLO16 based application.
The DIABLO16 Processor also supports high capacity
HC memory cards (4GB and above). The available
capacity of SD-HC cards varies according to the way
the card is partitioned and the commands used to
access it.
The FAT partition is always first (if it exists) and can be
up to the maximum size permitted by FAT16. Windows
7 will format FAT16 up to 4GB. Windows XP will format
FAT16 up to 2GB and the Windows XP command
prompt will format FAT16 up to 4GB.
Partitioning of microSD cards should be carried out
using the RMPET tool, which is included with the
Workshop4 IDE. This tool enables you to partition and
format your microSD card in a range of ways. It also
then allows you to format the card so it is ready for the
4Discovery.
6.5. Serial Flash Memory
The 4Discovery features 64M-Bit of Serial Flash
Memory which is connected to the following GPIO:
PA0 – SPI Chip Select
PA1 – SPI Clock
PA2 – SPI Data Out MOSI
PA3 – SPI Data In MISO
DIABLO16 has a set of built in user functions to address
SPI Flash Memory.
Please refer to the DIABLO16 Internal 4DGL Functions
document for more information on the SPI functions,
available from the 4Discovery Product Page, on the 4D
Systems website. www.4dsystems.com.au
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6.6. Real Time Clock
The 4Discovery features a Microchip MCP7940N real
time clock. This RTC is capable of Day, Month, Year,
Hour, Minute, Seconds and Day of Week, with leap
year compensation up to the year 2399, and both 12
and 24 hour modes.
This RTC communicates to the DIABLO16 processor
over an I2C interface using the following GPIO:
PA13 – I2C Data SDA
PA12 – I2C Clock SCL
It is capable of up to 400 kHz I2C communications.
Please refer to the DIABLO16 Internal 4DGL Functions
document for more information on the I2C functions,
available from the 4Discovery Product Page, on the 4D
Systems website. www.4dsystems.com.au
6.7. Crypto Authentication
4Discovery features an Atmel Crypto Authentication
security chip, which enables Diablo16 to encode
messages securely so the messages cannot be
intercepted and read openly by a 3rd party without
difficulty.
The Crypto Authentication chip uses the following
GPIO:
PA14 – I2C Clock SCL
PA15 – I2C Data SDA
It is capable of up to 1 MHz I2C Communications.
Please refer to the DIABLO16 Internal 4DGL Functions
document for more information on the I2C functions,
available from the 4Discovery Product Page, on the 4D
Systems website. www.4dsystems.com.au
6.8. Piezo Buzzer
The 4Discovery has an on-board Piezo buzzer, which
enables feedback to the user for a range of situations,
such as when the screen is touched, or if an event
occurs that needs an audio alert.
The Piezo buzzer uses the AUDIO pin on the Diablo16
processor, and can be controlled using the snd_Freq()
function. The optimal frequency to use for this buzzer
is 2731Hz.
Please refer to the DIABLO16 Internal 4DGL Functions
document for more information on this function,
available from the 4Discovery Product Page, on the 4D
Systems website. www.4dsystems.com.au
6.9. Universal Mounting Options
The 4Discovery has a range of ways it can be mounted.
Primarily designed to be mounted into a standard light
switch frame (a.k.a. Flush Box, Mounting Box), it can
also be panel or enclosure mounted, or directly
mounted on virtually any supportive wall surface. This
includes plaster board, wood, and even concrete.
One nice feature about the 4Discovery is only a single
central hole is required to be drilled into the surface to
enable the CAT5 cable to pass through and the RJ45
socket on the back of the 4Disocvery to protrude into.
Mounting can then be as little as 2 screws, depending
on the mounting surface.
The central hole needs to be larger than 25mm (about
1”) in order to give the RJ45 socket sufficient clearance
and to not bind in the hole.
There are 4 corner mounting slots, designed for
countersunk self tapping wood screws or similar. 8G
Countersunk Head chipboard screws work well.
There are 2 central mounting slots, designed for the
Flush/Mounting box which are commonly used for
Plaster Board installations. Typically the screws that
come with the Flush/Mounting box are used, and are
Pan Head type.
Any of these 6 mounting holes however can be used
to mount the 4Discovery. Select the most appropriate
ones for your target installation, and ensure the
4Discovery is securely attached to the surface in
question.
Please refer to the mechanical drawing towards the
end of this document, for more information regarding
the mounting holes and positions.
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6.10.Removable Front Cover
The front over of the 4Discovery is removable in order
to access the mounting holes beneath it. Simply clip on
or unclip the cover as required.
On the front cover is a recessed area at the top left.
This is countersunk slightly into the surface, and is
designed so a company logo sticker can be placed in
this location, to customise the 4Discovery to suit the
application it is being used in. Bubble Stickers work
well and give a nice 3D look.
NOTE: By default, starting with Revision 4.0, the
plastics will be shipped without any branding in this
area, and without a recess. Previous revisions featured
4Discovery branding in a recess which could then be
covered.
6.11.Removable Display subassembly
The display module itself can be removed from the
mounting base, which enables full access to all of the
mounting holes, specifically the 2 central slots,
designed for a Flush/Mounting box.
The display module can be carefully unclipped by
gently raising the two upper (or lower) clips, which
will release the display module from the mounting
base.
Please ensure only gentle force is applied to this clips
so they are not damaged.
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7. Display Precautions
Avoid having to display the same image/object on
the screen for lengthy periods of time. This will
cause a burn-in which is a common problem with
all types of display technologies. Blank the screen
after a while or dim it very low by adjusting the
contrast. Better still; implement a screen saver
feature.
Moisture and water can damage the display.
Moisture on the surface of a powered display may
cause the electrodes to corrode. Wipe off any
moisture gently or let the display dry before
usage.
Dirt from fingerprint oil and fat can easily stain the
surface of the display. Gently wipe off any stains
with a soft lint-free cloth.
The performance of the display will degrade
under high temperature and humidity. Avoid such
conditions when storing.
Displays are susceptible to mechanical shock and
any force exerted on the module may result in
deformed zebra stripes, a cracked display cell and
broken backlight
Always use the mounting holes on the 4Discovery
when mounting the 4Discovery to a wall,
enclosure or panel.
Do not apply undue tightness to the screws when
fixing the 4Discovery to the chosen
wall/enclosure, the 4Discovery case is made of
plastic and may be damaged if screws are
fastened too tightly.
8. Hardware Tools
The following hardware tools are required for full
control of the 4Discovery module.
8.1. 4D 485 Programmer
The 4D 485 Programmer is an essential hardware tools
to program, customise and test the 4Discovery
module.
It is possible to change the application the 4Discovery
is running, using a microSD card. This however is only
possible once the 4Discovery has been programmed
such that the application is able to update itself. This
is not possible out of the box, and requires an
appropriate program to be written to achieve this.
The 4D 485 Programmer is used to program a new
Firmware/PmmC, Display Driver and for transferring
compiled Workshop4 Applications. It can even serve
as an interface for communicating serial data to the
PC. The 4D Programmer also supplies power to the
4Discovery so it can be programmed on the bench or
in the field, as it must be disconnected from the RS485
network in order to be programmed with the 4D 485
Programmer and therefore needs a power source.
To connect the 4D 485 Programmer to the 4Discovery,
requires a standard CAT5 Ethernet cable, straight
through (NOT cross over). You can use CAT4, CAT5,
CAT5e, CAT6 etc type cables, but all that is required is
8 wires/conductors and these are straight through,
not crossed, to allow correct connection between the
two RJ45 plugs/connectors on the 4Discovery and the
4D 485 Programmer. The speed rating of Ethernet
cables is not relevant for the purpose of the
4Discovery since it uses RS485 which operates at a
much slower speed to Ethernet.
The maximum length of cable between the 4Discovery
and the 4D 485 Programmer, should be kept below
10m. This is due to TTL signals on the RJ45 connector
which need to be controlled by the 4D 485
Programmer. Anything longer may be feasible
depending on the type of cable used, however
typically longer cables will cause voltage drops and
capacitive loading which could cause programming to
fail.
NOTE: The 4Discovery cannot be programmed when
connected to the RS485 network. It needs to be 1:1
with the 4D 485 Programmer.
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9. Software Overview- Language
The 4Discovery utilises the DIABLO16 processor, which
belongs to a family of processors powered by a highly
optimised soft core virtual engine, EVE (Extensible
Virtual Engine).
EVE is a proprietary, high performance virtual-
machine with an extensive byte-code instruction set
optimised to execute compiled 4DGL programs. 4DGL
(4D Graphics Language) was specifically developed
from ground up for the EVE engine core. It is a high
level language which is easy to learn and simple to
understand yet powerful enough to tackle many
embedded graphics applications.
4DGL is a graphics oriented language allowing rapid
application development, and the syntax structure
was designed using elements of popular languages
such as C, Basic, Pascal and others.
Programmers familiar with these languages will feel
right at home with 4DGL. It includes many familiar
instructions such as IF..ELSE..ENDIF, WHILE..WEND,
REPEAT..UNTIL, GOSUB..ENDSUB, GOTO, PRINT as
well as some specialised instructions SERIN, SEROUT,
GFX_LINE, GFX_CIRCLE and many more.
For detailed information pertaining to the 4DGL
language, please refer to the following documents:
“4DGL-Programmers-Reference-Manual.pdf”
“DIABLO16-4DGL-Internal-Functions.pdf”
To assist with the development of 4DGL applications,
the Workshop 4 IDE combines a full-featured editor, a
compiler, a linker and a down-loader into a single PC-
based application. It's all you need to code, test and
run your applications.
4DGL is available to be written in two of the four
environments offered by the Workshop 4 IDE,
Designer and ViSi. The other environments use
alternative methods to program or communicate with
the 4Discovery. Please refer to the Workshop 4 IDE
section for more information.
10. 4D Systems - Workshop 4 IDE
Workshop 4 is a comprehensive software IDE that
provides an integrated software development
platform for all of the 4D family of processors and
modules. The IDE combines the Editor, Compiler,
Linker and Down- Loader to develop complete 4DGL
application code. All user application code is
developed within the Workshop 4 IDE.
The Workshop 4 IDE supports multiple development
environments for the user, to cater for different user
requirements and skill level.
The Designer environment enables the user to
write 4DGL code in its natural form to program
the 4D display module.
A visual programming experience, suitably called
ViSi, enables drag-and-drop type placement of
objects to assist with 4DGL code generation and
allows the user to visualise how the display will
look while being developed.
An advanced environment called ViSi-Genie
doesn’t require any 4DGL coding at all, it is all
done automatically for you. Simply lay the display
out with the objects you want, set the events to
drive them and the code is written for you
automatically. ViSi-Genie provides the latest rapid
development experience from 4D Systems.
A Serial environment is also provided to
transform the display module into a slave serial
module, allowing the user to control the display
from any host microcontroller or device with a
serial port.
The Workshop 4 IDE is available from the 4D Systems
website. www.4dsystems.com.au
For a comprehensive manual on the Workshop 4 IDE
Software along with other documents, refer to the
documentation from the 4D Systems website, on the
Workshop 4 product page.
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10.1. Workshop4 - Designer
Choose the Designer environment to write 4DGL code
in its raw form.
The Designer environment provides the user with a
simple yet effective programming environment where
pure 4DGL code can be written, compiled and
downloaded to the 4Discovery.
10.2. Workshop4 - ViSi
ViSi was designed to make the creation of graphical
displays a more visual experience. ViSi is a great
software tool that allows the user to see the instant
results of their desired graphical layout. Additionally,
there is a selection of inbuilt dials, gauges and meters
that can simply be placed onto the simulated module
display. From here each object can have its properties
edited, and at the click of a button all relevant 4DGL
code associated with that object is produced in the
user program. The user can then write 4DGL code
around these objects to utilise them in the way they
choose.
Refer to the “Diablo16 Internal function Manual”
from the Workshop 4 product page on the 4D Systems
website for a complete listing of all the supported
4DGL functions, along with the “4DGL Programmers
Reference Manual” for information about the 4DGL
Language and Syntax.
10.3. Workshop4 – ViSi Genie
ViSi Genie is a breakthrough in the way 4D Systems’
graphic display modules are programmed. It is an
environment like no other, a code-less programming
environment that provides the user with a rapid visual
experience, enabling a simple GUI application to be
‘written’ from scratch in literally seconds.
ViSi Genie does all the background coding, no 4DGL to
learn, it does it all for you.
Pick and choose the relevant objects to place on the
display, much like the ViSi Environment yet without
having to write a single line of code. Each object has
parameters which can be set, and configurable events
to animate and drive other objects or communicate
with external devices.
Simply place an object on the screen, position and size
it to suit, set the parameters such as colour, range,
text, and finally select the event you wish the object to
be associated with, it is that simple.
In seconds you can transform a blank display into a
fully animated GUI with moving sliders, animated
press and release buttons, and much more. All without
writing a single line of code!
ViSi Genie provides the user with a feature rich rapid
development environment, second to none.
Refer to the “ViSi Genie User Guide” and “ViSi-Genie
User Reference Manual” from the Workshop 4
product page on the 4D Systems website for
information about the ViSi-Genie Environment and its
Protocol.
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10.4. ViSi-Genie Limitations
While the 4Discovery is capable of being programmed
using the basic ViSi-Genie Environment, there are
limitations that need to be observed. If the 4Discovery
is being programmed as a Slave Device on the RS485
network, it can only function in Polled mode, rather
than Event mode due to the RS485 interface being half
duplex rather than full duplex. 2-wire RS485 is only
half duplex. If the 4Discovery is being programmed as
a Master Device (Host) on the RS485 network, it can
operate using Event mode, however is limited in data
which can be returned from the slaves.
When the 4Discovery is used with the basic ViSi-Genie,
only a single Master/Host and a single Slave, can be
present on the network. This is the limitation with the
ViSi-Genie protocol, as there is no way to direct the
ViSi-Genie protocol to a specific Slave, and there is no
way for Half Duplex RS485 to handle the responses
from the slaves. If more than 1:1 is required, another
Environment such as ViSi will be required.
If the basic ViSi-Genie is to be used when operating as
a Slave Device, which is the typical operation for a 4D
display using ViSi-Genie, when selecting the Event
options on any given widget/object, “Reported
Messages” cannot be used. The Host must poll each
object on the 4Discovery in order to gain the required
information. 4Discovery cannot just send information
when it likes, which is the case of Reported Messages,
as the 4Discovery is a Slave and therefore is only
allowed to speak when spoken to.
If the basic ViSi-Genie is to be used when operating as
a Host Device, the Reported Message option can be
used as it can speak out to the bus as required since it
is the Master of the RS485 bus. However it is not
possible to request information from Slave devices,
such as the value of something, as there are no
standard functions available in ViSi-Genie to request
data from another device. This mode is typically only
useful if the 4Discovery only features controls such as
buttons, switches, sliders and knobs, which do not
require data to be displayed, and only send data out
to the slaves in order for them to do a specific
function. It therefore has limited but still applicable
applications.
Workshop4 PRO has an advanced ViSi-Genie
environment with new widgets which allow 4DGL code
to be executed by the ViSi-Genie environment when
various situations occur, such as button presses, data
being received, touch screen interaction, etc. With
Workshop4 PRO, a number of the above limitations
are lifted and therefore possible.
4D Systems has ViSi-Genie libraries for the Arduino
and the Raspberry Pi. The Arduino library has been
updated to include support for the 4Discovery, to
allow it to communicate as a Slave to an Arduino using
RS485 (external hardware is required on the Arduino).
It utilises the Turn Around pin on the 4Discovery in
order to control the Transmit/Receive functionality of
the RS485 transceiver. This Turn Around Pin control is
required as the ViSi-Genie Protocol is defined already
and therefore control of the 4Discoverys
Transmit/Receive mode needs to be controlled from
the Host, the Arduino. ViSi-Genie can be used with
other hosts, however these are the 2 platforms we
have libraries written for.
10.5. Workshop4 - Serial
The Serial environment in the Workshop 4 IDE
provides the user the ability to transform the
4Discovery into a slave serial graphics controller.
This enables the user to use their favourite
microcontroller or serial device as the Host, without
having to learn 4DGL or program in a separate IDE.
Once the 4Discovery is configured and downloaded to
from the Serial Environment, simple graphic
commands can be sent from the users host
microcontroller to display primitives, images, sound or
even video.
Refer to the “Diablo16 Serial Command Set Reference
Manual” from the Workshop 4 product page on the 4D
Systems website for a complete listing of all the
supported serial commands.
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11. Connecting to External Hardware
The 4Discovery is capable of acting as both a RS485 Host, and a RS485 Slave, when appropriate circuitry is present on
the devices being interfaced to, and appropriate software is written. It is also possible to connect multiple 4Discoveries
on to a single bus at the same time. Like all Half Duplex RS485 systems though, there can only be 1 Master. All devices
on the RS485 bus MUST communicate using the same protocol else the system will not work.
11.1. Master and Slaves
The 4Discovery is a Half-Duplex RS485 device, which means it operates on a 2-wire RS485 bus, which means there can
be only a single Master device, and multiple Slave devices, and only the Master can initiate communication, and a
Slave can only communicate if first spoken to. Only 1 device can talk on the bus at any given time.
The simplest way to achieve this is when building a new network, and each device on the network is programmable
and capable of handling a customised protocol. With an appropriate protocol, the Master can initiate communicate
to one or all slaves at once (a Broadcast), and the Slaves will receive the information, process it and based on which
slave the message was intended for, that Slave will reply with the information requested or an Acknowledgement of
an Action taken place. In the case of a Broadcast, the Slaves should not attempt to reply at all, as only one device can
reply at once and this could lead to chaos on the network (Unless an innovative protocol is derived).
In the case of an existing RS485 system that 4Discovery is going to be placed into, the 4Discovery may need to be a
Slave device to an existing Master, and an existing Protocol may need to be programmed into the 4Discovery.
On the 4Discovery there is a Turn Around pin. This pin is wired directly to the RS485 transceiver in the 4Discovery,
which switches the system from Transmit to Receive. This pin is also connected to a GPIO of the Diablo16 processor,
and is therefore capable of being controlled by the 4Discovery, to tell other devices the state of the transmit/receive
on the 4Discovery. While this Turn Around pin may not be used in most cases, it may be useful for those special
systems where Automatic Direction Control is not possible, such as if an existing protocol does not support it, but the
control of a GPIO is possible.
Figure 1. Typical 2-wire RS485 configuration, which includes a common ground.
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11.2.4Discovery as a Host
The 4Discovery is capable of being the Master device of the RS485 network. It therefore needs to communicate to all
Slave devices on the network, and handle the replies from each of them.
The 4Discovery is fully programmable by the User when used in Designer or ViSi, and therefore every aspect of the
system needs to be managed by User Code. To enable the 4Discovery to transmit out of the RS485, the Turn Around
pin needs to be High, which is controlled using the PA10 GPIO on the Diablo16 processor on board the 4Discovery. To
enable the 4Discovery to receive over RS485, the Turn Around pin needs to be Low.
As mentioned in 11.1 ‘Master and Slaves’, the 4Discovery is capable of being used in new RS485 systems, as well as
existing systems. When used in new systems, the 4Discovery protocol can be more easily customised to provide the
best mix of features and performance as possible, compared to existing systems which typically have a protocol
already defined or devices which use a fixed protocol. The 4Discovery is fully programmable so is capable of working
with a large range of new and existing systems, even if the protocols are specialised. A main factor is that all devices
on the RS485 bus need to take the same protocol, else the system will not operate correctly.
If there are systems which are not capable of determining when the Slaves are ‘allowed’ to Transmit, the Turn Around
pin may be used from the 4Discovery to indicate when the Master (4Discovery) is transmitting or receiving, and may
be useful to assist the Slave.
Figure 2. This shows a 4Discovery as the Master of the RS485 Bus, and there are multiple Slaves, which can include
multiple 4Discovery’s (as Slaves). The Master could communicate to each of the Slaves individually, or to all of them
by doing a Broadcast, however this is dictated by the User Protocol and how the system is set up.
Each Device on the bus needs to communicate using the same protocol, and each device needs to be able to control
its own Transmit/Receive mode of its RS485 transceiver.
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11.3.4Discovery as a Slave
To operate the 4Discovery as a RS485 Slave, the same considerations need to be made regarding the protocol used in
the system, as when the 4Discovery was the Host. An appropriate Protocol is required such that the Master Device
transmits out onto the bus to the slaves, either pinpointing a single Slave device, or broadcasting to all Slave devices
on the Bus. Based on the Protocol, the Slaves will receive the message and if the message is not intended for them,
then to discard it. If the message is intended for them to then wait for the end of the message and reply accordingly.
The 4Discovery is not capable of Auto Direction Control, and therefore needs to be either externally controlled by the
host (as is the case when the 4Discovery is programmed using the 4D RS485 Programmer), or more commonly the
4Discovery would handle the Direction Control of its RS485 transceiver based on the data received on the RS485,
dictated by the Protocol.
The PA10 GPIO on the 4Discovery is connected to the Turn Around pin on the RJ45 Jack, and it is also connected to
the Transmit/Receive controls of its RS485 transceiver. When the 4Discovery is in Slave Mode, the GPIO needs to be
controlled based on the data received over the RS485, to place the 4Discovery in the appropriate Transmit or Receive
state based on the information received, dictated by the Users protocol.
If this is not possible, the Turn Around pin can be controlled from the Host to manually change the 4Discovery from
being in Transmit or Receive mode, however this is less desirable and should only be used in special situations. For
example, if the 4Discovery is a Slave and the PA10 GPIO is Low, then the Host is currently in Transmit mode, and data
could be flowing over the RS485 and should therefore be captured and processed. If the PA10 GPIO is High, then the
4Discovery has the opportunity to reply or send information to the Host if required, in response to the previous data
received.
When multiple devices are on the bus, ie more than 1 slave, Designer or ViSi Environments can be used to program
the 4Discovery as a Slave. If only a single slave exists and no more are going to be added, ViSi-Genie can be used.
Please refer to Section 10.4 “ViSi-Genie Limitations with 4Discovery” for more information.
Figure 3. This shows the situation where there are 1 or more Slaves on the network, of which 1 or more could be a
4Discovery. Each Slave needs to handle the changing of its own Transmit/Receive, based on the information received
from the Master. Only one Slave should reply at any given time, after the Master has transmitted to it. Utilizing RS485
transceivers with Auto Direction control can simplify the setup, however a suitable protocol needs to be utilized
regardless.
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11.4.4Discovery Multiple Masters
It is possible to implement a system which has multiple Master devices on the RS485 network, provided the protocol
is written to support this.
There may be situations where multiple 4Discoveries are required in a building, all attached to the same RS485
network, and talk to the same Slaves. While this is not a typical situation in the eyes of RS485, it is possible to do if
each of the devices on the RS485 can be programmed to handle this. The protocol programmed into the devices needs
to be written such that all devices are in Receiving Mode by default, and only go into Transmit Mode when they are
initiating a transmission. This will allow any of the 4Discoveries working as Masters to send out a message on to the
bus, to be received by the other units.
As with any 2-wire RS485 network, only one Master can talk at any given time. If a configuration is used where there
are multiple Masters on the same RS485 bus, the programming either needs to prevent multiple Masters speaking at
the same time, else it needs to handle it if the situation arises, such as if 2 Users are working on 4Discoveries in
separate locations, trying to send onto the bus at the same time.
Figure 4. This shows multiple Masters on the RS485 network, with multiple Slaves. A specialised program and protocol
is required to realise this setup, but is useful if more than 1 4Discovery is required on the network to control the same
set of equipment from multiple locations.
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11.5.Programming 4Discovery
The only method available to program the 4Discovery directly is by using the 4D RS485 Programmer. This device
programs the 4Discovery over the RS485 bus, as well as supplying it Power and controlling the Turn Around pin of the
4Discovery and the Reset signal, to appropriately program the on-board Diablo16 Processor.
There is no other programmer which can be used to program the 4Discovery. The 4D RS485 Programmer is also
capable of upgrading the PmmC/Firmware of the 4Discovery and the Display Driver, along with the User Application.
An alternative method of loading a new Application on to the 4Discovery is by loading a precompiled program from
microSD storage, on to the on-board flash of the Diablo16 processor. This can be done using the built in functions of
the Diablo16 processor, and enables the 4Discovery to be updated in the field by the End User, without having to have
a technician or technical person on call to program the 4Discovery using the 4D RS485 Programmer and PC. This
method however cannot be used to upgrade the PmmC or Display Driver. This can only be done using the 4D RS485
Programmer. To enable the loading of precompiled programs onto the 4Discovery from the microSD card, an
appropriate application needs to be written, this is not possible straight out of the box.
Here is a diagram to show the basics of how the 4Discovery interfaces to the 4D RS485 Programmer.
Figure 5. This is the situation used when programming the 4Discovery using the 4D RS485 Programmer. The
Programmer controls the 4Discovery’s Turn Around Pin, allowing the programming software to dictate when the
4Discovery is listening and when it is allowed to reply to programming commands. This same setup can be used for
general communications also, where there is one external Master, and 4Discovery as a single Slave. It is not possible
to have multiple Slaves in this situation, due to the way the Turn Around Pin is interfaced with the 4Discovery in order
to make the 4Discovery programmable over the RJ45 connector using RS485.
Programming of the 4Discovery is only possible when the 4Discovery is disconnected from the RS485 network, and is
connected 1:1 with the 4D 485 Programmer. It is not possible to program it when connected to the network, as the
Reset and Turn Around pins are required to program the 4Discovery, and other devices may try to communicate on
the bus when programming is occurring, which could cause corruption and the programming to fail. Reset and Turn
pins are also TTL level, so the distance these should ideally be transmitted over, should be as short as possible. Please
refer to Section 8.1, “4D 485 Programmer”, for more information.
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11.6.Termination Resistors
On each 4Discovery is a built in 120ohm termination resistor. This is open/deactivated by default.
The termination resistor is there to absorb reflections in the RS-485 bus, however typically are only used at each end
of the bus, ie the first device and the last device. Depending how you are configuring your system with the 4Discovery,
will determine if you need a termination resistor or not. In a number of cases, having a termination resistor present
is better than not having a termination resistor at all, even if the termination is not located at the end of the bus,
however this is very subjective and system dependant.
If the lack of on-board termination is causing problems with communication, it can be enabled, but requires the
4Discovery case to be carefully opened and the PCB modified. On the back of the 4Discovery is a cover, which is
attached with multiple clips, and can be tricky to remove. Using a plastic tool or possibly two plastic tools, these clips
can be carefully opened, and the back cover removed, exposing the circuitry inside.
Under the cover, towards the bottom, are two sets of pads with a label JP1. These two pads need to have a solder
blob added to connect them together. This will enable the 120ohm resistor. If the 120ohm resistor needs to be
disabled again, these pads can be unsoldered.
Note: Extreme care needs to be taken when performing this modification, as too much heat or a slip of the soldering
iron could result in components/display or tracks being damaged. This should only be attempted by people who know
the risks and are capable of modifying the PCB.
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12. Mechanical Details
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13. Schematic Details - HW REV 2.7
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14. Schematic Details - HW REV 4.0
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15. Schematic Details - HW REV 4.2
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16. Specifications
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS
Operating ambient temperature ................................................................................................... -20°C to +70°C
Storage temperature ...................................................................................................................... -30°C to +80°C
Voltage on VCC with respect to GND ............................................................................................... 7.0V to 30VDC
Voltage on 5V_IN with respect to GND ............................................................................................... 4.5V to 5.5V
NOTE: Stresses above those listed here may cause permanent damage to the device. This is a stress rating only
and functional operation of the device at those or any other conditions above those indicated in the
recommended operation listings of this specification is not implied. Exposure to maximum rating conditions for
extended periods may affect device reliability.
RECOMMENDED OPERATING CONDITIONS
Parameter
Conditions
Min
Typ
Max
Units
Supply Voltage (VCC)
Stable external supply required
7.0
12.0
30.0
V
Supply Voltage (5V_IN)
Stable external supply required
4.5
5.0
5.5
V
Operating Temperature
-10
--
+60
°C
Reset Pulse
External Open Collector
20
--
--
µs
Operational Delay
Power-Up or External Reset
500
--
5000
ms
GLOBAL CHARACTERISTICS BASED ON OPERATING CONDITIONS
Parameter
Conditions
Min
Typ
Max
Units
Supply Current (ICC)
12V, heavily depends on screen usage
conditions, SD Card etc (REV 4.0)
11
120
--
mA
5V, heavily depends on screen usage
conditions, SD Card etc (REV 4.0)
23
200
--
mA
Diablo16 Flash Memory
Endurance
PmmC / Application Programming
--
10000
--
E/W
Diablo16 Memory Data
Retention
Provided Maximum ratings are not
exceeded.
20
--
--
Years
Display Endurance
Hours of operation, measured to when
display is 50% original brightness
--
20000
--
H
ORDERING INFORMATION
Order Code:
4Discovery-35
Packaging: Module sealed in an antistatic foam padded 4D Systems box
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17. Hardware Revision History
18. Datasheet Revision History
Rev. No.
Date
Description
2.7
01/03/2015
Limited Public Release
4.0
01/07/2018
Removal of CC3000 WiFi Module
Removal of Crypto Authentication IC
Changing of some components from 0603 to 0402
Removal of RTC and Flash IC
4.2
29/05/2019
Added of Crypto Authentication IC
Added of RTC and Flash IC
Rev. No.
Date
Description
2.0
09/12/2015
Initial Public Release Version
2.1
28/03/2019
Cosmetic Changes and Formatting
2.2
02/08/2019
Added discussions for Crypto Authenticaltion IC, RTC and Flash IC
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19. Legal Notice
Proprietary Information
The information contained in this document is the property of 4D Systems Pty. Ltd. and may be the subject of patents
pending or granted, and must not be copied or disclosed without prior written permission.
4D Systems endeavours to ensure that the information in this document is correct and fairly stated but does not
accept liability for any error or omission. The development of 4D Systems products and services is continuous and
published information may not be up to date. It is important to check the current position with 4D Systems. 4D
Systems reserves the right to modify, update or makes changes to Specifications or written material without prior
notice at any time.
All trademarks belong to their respective owners and are recognised and acknowledged.
Disclaimer of Warranties & Limitation of Liability
4D Systems makes no warranty, either expressed or implied with respect to any product, and specifically disclaims all
other warranties, including, without limitation, warranties for merchantability, non-infringement and fitness for any
particular purpose.
Information contained in this publication regarding device applications and the like is provided only for your
convenience and may be superseded by updates. It is your responsibility to ensure that your application meets with
your specifications.
Images and graphics used throughout this document are for illustrative purposes only. All images and graphics used
are possible to be displayed on the 4D Systems range of products, however the quality may vary.
In no event shall 4D Systems be liable to the buyer or to any third party for any indirect, incidental, special,
consequential, punitive or exemplary damages (including without limitation lost profits, lost savings, or loss of
business opportunity) arising out of or relating to any product or service provided or to be provided by 4D Systems,
or the use or inability to use the same, even if 4D Systems has been advised of the possibility of such damages.
4D Systems products are not fault tolerant nor designed, manufactured or intended for use or resale as on line control
equipment in hazardous environments requiring fail – safe performance, such as in the operation of nuclear facilities,
aircraft navigation or communication systems, air traffic control, direct life support machines or weapons systems in
which the failure of the product could lead directly to death, personal injury or severe physical or environmental
damage (‘High Risk Activities’). 4D Systems and its suppliers specifically disclaim any expressed or implied warranty
of fitness for High Risk Activities.
Use of 4D Systems’ products and devices in 'High Risk Activities' and in any other application is entirely at the buyer’s
risk, and the buyer agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless 4D Systems from any and all damages, claims, suits,
or expenses resulting from such use. No licenses are conveyed, implicitly or otherwise, under any 4D Systems
intellectual property rights.
20. Contact Information
For Technical Support: www.4dsystems.com.au/support
For Sales Support: sales@4dsystems.com.au
Website: www.4dsystems.com.au
Copyright 4D Systems Pty. Ltd. 2000-2019.
