STONE Technologies is a proud manufacturer of superior quality TFT LCD modules and LCD screens. The company also provides intelligent HMI solutions that perfectly fit in with its excellent hardware offerings.

STONE offers complete modules that can be transformed into an HMI unit. The module kits typically include these components:

•   TFT drive
•   Microcontroller unit with attached CPU
•   UART port
•   Flash memory
•   Power supply

There is also a downloadable design software called STONE Designer. This is a completely free GUI design software you can use to create responsive digital module-ready user interfaces.

STONE TFT LCD modules come with a microcontroller unit that has a cortex-m4 32-bit CPU. Such a module can easily be transformed into an HMI screen. Simple hexadecimal instructions can be used to control the module through the UART port. Furthermore, you can seamlessly develop STONE TFT LCD color user interface modules and add touch control, features to it.

You can also use a peripheral MCU to serially connect STONE’s HMI display via TTL. This way, your HMI display can supply event notifications and the peripheral MCU can then execute them. Moreover, this TTL-connected HMI display can further be linked to microcontrollers such as:

•   Raspberry Pi
•   Arduino
•   RAM MCU
•   STM
•   Serial port systems

STONE Designer Software

Each customizable TFT-LCD HMI display module comes with free access to STONE’s dedicated design software. STONE TOOLBox software is an easy-to-use program that allows you to set up graphical user interface functions such as:

•   Text
•   Images
•   Curves
•   Image switching
•   Dials
•   Sliders
•   Progress bars
•   Keyboards
•   Touch and clock buttons
•   Video and audio

STONE software can also be used to configure data storage specifications and USB downloads.

STONE TOOLBox features a drag-and-drop mechanism and comes with simple instructions. Hence, even beginning engineers can quickly and seamlessly create an impressive user interface within minutes.

For instance, you can create a basic GUI by following these two simple steps:

•   Add a static image as the background
•   Define component functionalities

Intricate and intuitive interfaces will require a bit more steps. Nevertheless, using the TOOLBox program allows you to save time on developing HMI projects due to its ease of use.

The STONE LCD Advantage

You get several advantages when you use STONE’s TFT LCD modules for your next HMI project:

1. Reduced Development Time

HMI projects can quickly be done with Stone’s HMI-ready display modules. As previously mentioned, STONEprovides complete modules that include hardware and a free downloadable GUI design software – everything you need to get started on your HMI concept.

2. Cost-Effectiveness

With faster project timelines comes greater production savings. Stone’s modules are cost-effective and since they have superior quality, you’re assured of a quick return on investment (ROI) with fewer costs on maintenance and repairs in the long run.

3. Ease Of Use

STONE creates modules that are easy to assemble if you’re doing an HMI project. Add to that its user-friendly GUI software that lets you seamlessly create GUIs for your new HMI device.

4. Several Choices

STONE classified its modules into three categories, namely:

•   Civil Type Series– Recommended modules for basic HMI devices and project demos. This series also carries the lowest price tag.

•   Advanced Series– Can be used for medical equipment and beauty machines.

•   Industrial Series– Heavy-duty lineup of modules that are suitable for industrial applications.

Also, STONE manufactures several TFT LCD touch screen sizes that range from 3.5 to 15.1 inches. Customized options are also available depending on your needs. There are also plenty of options and models for each screen size.

Indeed, STONE produces a plethora of HMI-ready TFT LCD screens. You won’t have a hard time finding the right display module compatible with your microcontroller projects.