We tried to make this TFT breakout useful for both high-pin microcontrollers that can handle 8-bit data transfer modes as well as low-pincount micros like the Arduino UNO and Leonardo that are OK with SPI.

Essentially, the tradeoff is pins for speed. SPI is about 2-4 times slower than 8-bit mode, but that may not matter for basic graphics!

In addition, SPI mode has the benefit of being able to use the onboard microSD card socket for reading images. We don't have support for this in 8-bit mode so if you want to have an all-in-one image viewer type application, use SPI!

Assembling Header

Either way, if you're using a breadboard,  you'll need to solder header onto one or two of the sides. The procedure is the same for both sides

Prepare the header strip:

Cut the strip to length if necessary. It will be easier to solder if you insert it into a breadboard - long pins down

Add the breakout board:

Place the breakout board over the pins so that the short pins poke through the breakout pads

Add the breakout board:

Place the breakout board over the pins so that the short pins poke through the breakout pads

You're done! Check your solder joints visually and continue onto the next steps

This guide was first published on Aug 19, 2014. It was last updated on Aug 19, 2014.

This page (Wiring & Test) was last updated on Aug 15, 2014.

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