Hi, got a problem with my LCD display. it doesnt work and i think the reason why is because i need to connect the data line D4-D7 to pins RA0-RA3. the problem is that RA3 is either MCLRE or a digital INPUT.

therefore i cannot have an output on that pin and i cant see a way to change the data out pins on the pic to anything but port a pins 0 to 3.

also, this is the first time ive tried to use an LCD screen so what should it look like when it works. obviously there is no data going to the module, but i would have thought there would be some indication that the power is on, like a flash of the screen or something, but there was nothing. nothing changed.

im using a powertip PC2004A - a 20 charater, 4 line module.
pic 16f684 with internal rc no clock out, mclre disabled.
connected it up like in the pbp manual. except the data lines.


thanks guys
phil