NEC NL2432HC17-10B | Compact 2.7" QVGA Industrial TFT-LCD Display
The NEC NL2432HC17-10B is a purpose-built 2.7-inch QVGA display, engineered for industrial applications where physical space is a premium but operational reliability is non-negotiable. This is not a consumer-grade component retrofitted for industrial use; it is a display designed from the ground up to withstand the rigors of demanding environments. Its combination of a compact form factor, wide operating temperature range, and enhanced visual technology makes it a standout choice for specialized human-machine interfaces (HMIs).
Product Highlights Overview
- Industrial-Grade Temperature Range: With an operating range of -20°C to +70°C, the NL2432HC17-10B ensures consistent performance in unconditioned environments, from cold storage facilities to sun-exposed enclosures.
- Compact QVGA Resolution: The 240x320 resolution provides crisp, clear data and graphical readouts in a 2.7-inch diagonal package, ideal for handheld diagnostic tools, compact controllers, and secondary information displays.
- Enhanced Readability: Leveraging NEC's Super-Transmissive (ST-NLT) technology, this display offers superior contrast and visibility in high ambient light compared to standard transmissive panels.
- Proven a-Si TFT Technology: Built on a foundation of reliable a-Si TFT (Amorphous Silicon) technology, it provides a cost-effective and durable solution with a long product lifecycle, critical for industrial equipment.
Application Scenarios & Value Proposition
The specific engineering choices behind the NEC NL2432HC17-10B translate directly into tangible value across several key applications. Its design is a testament to understanding the real-world challenges faced by system integrators.
- Handheld Diagnostic and Test Equipment: In devices like multimeters, network analyzers, or environmental sensors, the wide temperature range guarantees functionality whether used outdoors in winter or inside a hot mechanical room. Its compact size is essential for portability and ergonomic design.
- Small Industrial Control Panels: For machine-side controllers, pump interfaces, or specialized process monitors, this display provides critical operational data without requiring significant panel space. The ST-NLT technology ensures the interface remains legible even under typical factory overhead lighting.
- Medical and Laboratory Instrumentation: The display's clarity and reliable performance are well-suited for portable medical devices or benchtop lab equipment where accurate data visualization is paramount. The long-term availability reduces the risk of costly redesigns and re-certifications.
Technical Deep-Dive: The Engineering Edge
Industrial-Grade Durability
The -20°C to +70°C operating temperature is more than just a specification; it is a core design principle. This is achieved through careful selection of liquid crystal fluid, backlight components, and driver electronics that resist performance degradation at temperature extremes. For an engineer, this eliminates the need for auxiliary heating or cooling systems in many designs, reducing system complexity, cost, and potential points of failure. It is a key reason this display is specified for reliable displays in heavy machinery and outdoor-adjacent equipment.
Super-Transmissive (ST-NLT) Technology
NEC's ST-NLT technology is a critical differentiator. Standard transmissive displays can appear "washed out" in bright ambient light. ST-NLT enhances the light-transmitting efficiency of the cell structure. This not only improves the contrast ratio in well-lit conditions but also means the LED backlight doesn't need to be driven as hard to achieve excellent legibility. This results in lower power consumption and reduced heat generation—a significant benefit for sealed, fanless, and battery-powered devices.
Key Parameters Overview
The following table outlines the critical performance metrics for the NL2432HC17-10B. For a complete list of specifications, you can Download the Datasheet.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | NEC |
| Screen Size | 2.7 inch (6.8 cm) |
| Resolution | 240(RGB) × 320 [QVGA] |
| Display Technology | a-Si TFT-LCD, Transmissive |
| Luminance (Brightness) | 230 cd/m² (Typ.) |
| Contrast Ratio | 350:1 (Typ.) |
| Interface Type | 8-bit parallel RGB (CMOS) |
| Operating Temperature | -20 ~ 70 °C |
| Storage Temperature | -30 ~ 80 °C |
Engineer's FAQ
Is the NL2432HC17-10B suitable for direct sunlight applications?
While the ST-NLT technology significantly improves performance in high ambient light, this display is best classified as "daylight viewable," not fully "sunlight readable." It is ideal for indoor, factory, or shaded outdoor use. For applications in direct, bright sunlight, a display with higher brightness (typically 800 cd/m² or more) and often transflective technology would be recommended. For a deeper understanding of this topic, our guide to sunlight-readable HMIs is a valuable resource.
What are the primary integration considerations for the 8-bit CMOS interface?
The 8-bit parallel CMOS interface is a straightforward and robust solution, but it requires careful design. Unlike serial interfaces like LVDS or MIPI, it uses a wider data bus (8 data lines plus control signals like Hsync, Vsync, and DOTCLK). This means PCB layout requires attention to trace length matching to avoid data skew, especially at higher clock rates. However, its advantage is lower EMI compared to high-speed serial interfaces and simpler driver implementation on many microcontrollers that have a dedicated TFT driver peripheral. For any specific integration challenges, please contact our technical team for support.
