st7789py_mpy
A MicroPython driver for ST7789 and compatible LCD displays, supporting multiple resolutions and hardware features.
What is st7789py_mpy?
st7789py_mpy is a MicroPython driver library for ST7789 and compatible LCD displays, providing an interface to control small screens on microcontrollers. It solves the problem of displaying graphics and text on embedded systems by offering hardware-accelerated features and support for multiple display resolutions. The driver includes font rendering, bitmap drawing, and display rotation capabilities.
Embedded developers and hobbyists working with MicroPython on ESP32, RP2040, or similar microcontrollers who need to interface with ST7789-based LCD displays. It's particularly useful for those building handheld devices, IoT dashboards, or custom embedded interfaces.
Developers choose this driver because it's specifically optimized for MicroPython, supports a wide range of display resolutions and hardware platforms, and includes hardware-accelerated scrolling. Unlike generic display libraries, it's tailored for the ST7789 controller and compatible chips with tested examples for popular development boards.
Overview
Driver for 320x240, 240x240, 135x240 and 128x128 ST7789 displays written in MicroPython
Use Cases
Best For
- Adding display interfaces to ESP32-based IoT projects
- Building handheld gaming devices with RP2040 microcontrollers
- Creating embedded dashboards for sensor data visualization
- Developing custom user interfaces for microcontroller projects
- Prototyping wearable devices with small LCD screens
- Educational projects teaching embedded graphics with MicroPython
Not Ideal For
- Projects using Arduino or CircuitPython where platform-specific display drivers are better integrated
- Applications requiring a full graphical user interface with pre-built widgets and event handling
- Teams prioritizing extensive documentation and stable releases over work-in-progress features
Pros & Cons
Pros
Supports multiple display resolutions and popular boards like ESP32 and RP2040, with tested examples for LilyGo, M5STACK, and Waveshare devices as listed in the README.
Leverages the ST7789 controller's built-in scrolling for smooth animations, reducing CPU overhead on resource-constrained microcontrollers.
Allows text drawing with converted PC BIOS bitmap fonts or TrueType fonts, offering versatility for different typography needs in embedded projects.
Designed as a lightweight driver that leverages display hardware features, making it suitable for memory-constrained environments like IoT devices.
Cons
The README states it's a work in progress, and documentation may be scattered or lacking, which can hinder setup and troubleshooting for new users.
Only compatible with ST7789 and a few similar chips, so it's not suitable for projects using other display technologies like OLED or e-ink screens.
Fonts and bitmaps must be converted before use, adding an extra step compared to libraries with built-in assets or more streamlined workflows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Projects
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MicroPython-ST7735ST7735 TFT LCD driver for MicroPython
st7789_mpyFast pure-C driver for MicroPython that can handle display modules on ST7789 chip
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