Final answer:
The microprocessor must wait for a specific delay, generally between 1 to 2 milliseconds, after instructing an LCD to clear its screen before sending new characters. This delay can vary and may be longer for some displays;
Step-by-step explanation:
When interfacing a microprocessor with an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), there is a necessary delay after issuing the clear screen command before new characters can be sent for display. This delay is due to the time the LCD requires to process the instruction and clear its contents.
The Clear Screen command is one of the more time-consuming operations for an LCD. Generally, the LCD controller needs approximately 1 to 2 milliseconds to execute a Clear Screen command. However, some displays may require a longer delay, on the order of 1.5 to 2.5 milliseconds, or up to 15 milliseconds according to some datasheets, before they are ready to accept new data. Therefore, it is crucial for the microprocessor to be programmed to wait for at least the maximum expected delay time specified in the LCD's datasheet to ensure proper operation.
To ensure compatibility and reliability across various LCD modules and controller types, reference to the specific LCD's datasheet is essential for accurate timing information. In absence of a datasheet, waiting for a safe period such as 2 milliseconds or more is advisable before sending the next command or data to the display.