Leave out transistor for testing?

[jjhall]

If I understand the wiring diagram/schematic properly, the transistor is being used to allow pin 9 on the Arduino to turn the backlight on and off on the LCD. Am I correct in that assumption? If so, it should be OK to leave the transistor off of the circuit for now (I don't have one handy) and it should work fine with the exception of having a backlight? If I want a backlight for now I could take +5V and tie it directly (through a manual switch) to LCD pin 15, right?

Thanks for the assistance!

Jeremy

[jjhall]

Never mind... I found a local RadioShack that actually had some in stock (albeit not even in the transistor drawer) and picked up a pack. Now if I can get some time over the weekend I'll start tinkering.

Jeremy

[dcb]

Just FYI for the next person, some have used the ratshack ( thats a term of affection ) PNP2907 general purpose pnp , part 276-2023 comes in quantity one instead of 15.

[jjhall]

Originally Posted by dcb

J ratshack ( thats a term of affection

That's a name I haven't heard for years! Thanks for the tip. I just went ahead and bought the 15 pack (276-1604) since I figure I'll use them eventually anyway, and next time I need one I'll be set.

Thanks for the advice!

Jeremy

[dcb]

Originally Posted by jjhall

That's a name I haven't heard for years!

I had to mention that I just looked up ratshack in the urban dictionary for a laugh

1. Ratshack

A alternative name for Radioshack.

Let's go to the corner Ratshack and get you the parts to finish your robotic woman.