Overview

The DIYables LCD I2C 1602 Green/Yellow Backlight is a 16-character by 2-row character LCD with a green/yellow backlight and integrated I2C backpack. Four-wire I2C connection (VCC, GND, SDA, SCL) minimizes GPIO usage. Built-in contrast potentiometer and software-controlled backlight round out the feature set. Package includes 2 modules.

The green/yellow backlight has a classic, energy-efficient character that many applications associate with precision instruments and retro electronics.

Quick Overview

Property Value
Display Format 16 characters × 2 rows
Interface I2C
I2C Address 0x27 (default)
Supply Voltage 5V
Backlight Color Green / Yellow
Contrast Potentiometer
Backlight Control Programmable ON/OFF
Package 2 pieces

Key Features

Green/Yellow Backlight

Classic green or yellow-green tint provides high contrast for character display in indoor environments.

I2C Backpack

Only 4 wires needed — same library and wiring as any other I2C LCD.

Programmable Backlight

Control backlight state in code with lcd.backlight() / lcd.noBacklight().

2-Pack Value

Two modules per package for multi-display projects or backups.

Technical Specifications

Parameter Value
Display Type Character LCD (1602)
Layout 16 characters × 2 rows
I2C Backpack IC PCF8574
Interface I2C
I2C Address 0x27 (default)
Supply Voltage 5V
Backlight Green/Yellow LED
Contrast Potentiometer
Backlight Control Software ON/OFF
Package 2 pieces

Pinout

Pin Label Description
1 VCC Power supply (5V)
2 GND Ground
3 SDA I2C data line
4 SCL I2C clock line

Getting Started

Wiring (Arduino Uno / Nano)

LCD Pin Arduino Pin
VCC 5V
GND GND
SDA A4
SCL A5

Applications

  • Sensor readouts
  • Status displays
  • Menu systems
  • Timer and counter displays
  • Educational projects
  • Retro-style instrument panels

Where to Buy

Equivalent Boards

Module Key Difference
LCD I2C 16x2 Blue Background Same size and interface, blue backlight
LCD I2C 2004 Green/Yellow Same backlight color, larger 20x4 display
1602A LCD Blue Screen (Parallel) Same display, parallel interface

Notes

  • Default I2C address is 0x27. Run an I2C scanner sketch to confirm if it does not respond.
  • Contrast: turn the potentiometer counterclockwise if only black squares appear on the top row.
  • Both modules in the 2-pack share address 0x27 — do not run both on the same I2C bus without changing the address of one.

Revision History

Version Date Notes
v1.0 2026-06 Initial entry