1. Chigadzirwa Pamusoroview
The Waveshare 3.5-inch Resistive Touch Screen TFT LCD (model XPT2046) is a compact display designed for use with various Raspberry Pi revisions (B+/2B/3B/3B+). It features a 480x320 hardware resolution and resistive touch control, enabling direct interaction without a separate keyboard or mouse. The display utilizes 125MHz high-speed SPI for clear and stable signal transmission.
This display supports FBCP software drivers, allowing for configurable software resolution and dual-display setups. Drivers are provided for popular Raspberry Pi operating systems such as Raspbian, Ubuntu, Kali, and Retropie. Its immersion gold surface plating ensures high quality and durability.

Figure 1: Waveshare 3.5-inch RPi LCD (C) module, displaying its circuit board and components.
2. Package Zviri mukati
- 3.5inch RPi LCD (C) x1
- Bata chinyoreso x1
- RPi screws pack (2pcs) x1
3. Setup Instructions
3.1. Kubatana Kwenyama
The 3.5-inch RPi LCD (C) is designed for direct plug-in compatibility with Raspberry Pi models B+, 2B, 3B, and 3B+. Align the display's GPIO pins with the Raspberry Pi's GPIO header and gently press down to ensure a secure connection. The included screws can be used to further secure the display to the Raspberry Pi, providing stability.

Figure 2: The 3.5-inch LCD display securely mounted on a Raspberry Pi.
3.2. Software Configuration
To enable the display and touch functionality, specific drivers are required. Waveshare provides drivers compatible with various Raspberry Pi operating systems, including Raspbian, Ubuntu, Kali, and Retropie. Refer to the official Waveshare product page or documentation for detailed instructions on driver installation for your specific OS. The display also supports FBCP (Frame Buffer Copy) software drivers, which allow for flexible configuration of software resolution and the setup of dual-display environments.
After installing the drivers, you may need to configure the system to output to the SPI display. This typically involves modifying configuration files (e.g., /boot/config.txt) to enable SPI and set the correct display parameters. Detailed steps are available in the Waveshare documentation.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1. Basic Operation
The 3.5-inch LCD features resistive touch control. Use the provided touch pen or a gentle finger press to interact with the screen. Resistive touch screens respond to pressure, so a light but firm touch is usually sufficient. Calibration may be required after initial setup to ensure accurate touch response.

Figure 3: The display showing a typical Raspberry Pi desktop interface.
4.2. Key Features in Use
- Vhidhiyo Kutamba: With a refresh rate up to 50Hz when combined with the Raspberry Pi, the display is capable of playing various video formats, such as MP4.
- Mutambo Enjoy playing video games, including those supported by RetroPie, directly on the compact screen.
- Kutora mifananidzo: Utilize the touch screen for camera control, supporting multiple camera modes if configured with a compatible camera module.
- Software Keyboard: Interact with the system using an on-screen software keyboard, eliminating the need for external keyboard and mouse peripherals.

Mufananidzo 4: Web browsing on the 3.5-inch display.

Figure 5: The display showcasing a high-quality image while mounted on a Raspberry Pi.
5. Kuchengeta
5.1. Kuchengeta uye Kuchenesa
To maintain the longevity and performance of your Waveshare 3.5-inch LCD, follow these guidelines:
- Kuchenesa Screen: Shandisa jira rakapfava, risina lint, zvishoma dampened with water or a screen-cleaning solution, to gently wipe the display surface. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, or excessive moisture.
- Kubata: Avoid applying excessive pressure to the screen, especially with sharp objects, as this can damage the resistive touch layer. Always use the provided touch pen for best results.
- Kuchengeta: When not in use, store the display in a clean, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Environmental Conditions: Operate the display within recommended temperature and humidity ranges to prevent damage.
6. Kugadzirisa matambudziko
6.1. Nyaya Dzakajairika
- Kuratidza Kusashanda:
- Ensure the display is correctly and securely plugged into the Raspberry Pi's GPIO header.
- Verify that the necessary drivers are installed and configured correctly for your operating system.
- Check the Raspberry Pi's power supply to ensure it provides sufficient current for both the Pi and the display.
- Touch Function Not Responding:
- Confirm that the touch screen drivers are installed and loaded.
- Perform a touch screen calibration if available in your OS settings.
- Ensure you are using a suitable object (like the provided touch pen) and applying appropriate pressure.
- Incorrect Display Orientation/Resolution:
- Review your software configuration files (e.g.,
/boot/config.txt) for correct rotation and resolution settings. - Reinstall or update display drivers.
- Review your software configuration files (e.g.,
7. Zvinyorwa zveUnyanzvi
7.1. Key Parameters
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| LCD Rudzi | TFT |
| LCD inowanikwa | SPI |
| Bata Screen Type | Resistive |
| Bata Screen Controller | XPT2046 |
| Colors | 65536 |
| Backlight | LED |
| Resolution | 480x320 (Pixel) |
| Aspect ratio | 1.50:1, 3 (2:XNUMX, XNUMX) |
| Yakamira Sikirini Ratidza Size | 3.5 inches |
| Screen Surface Tsananguro | Glossy |
| Item Model Number | XPT2046 |
7.2. Interface Pinout
| PIN HAPANA. | SYMBOL | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 17 | 3.3V | Simba rakanaka (3.3V simba rekuisa) |
| 2, 4 | 5V | Simba rakanaka (5V simba rekuisa) |
| 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16 | NC | NC |
| 6, 9, 14, 20, 25 | GND | Ground |
| 11 | TP_IRQ | Touch Panel Interrupt, low level while the Touch Panel detects touching |
| 18 | LCD_RS | Murairo/Data Rejista kusarudzwa |
| 19 | LCD_SI / TP_SI | SPI data yekuisa yeLCD/Touch Panel |
| 21 | TP_SO | SPI data kubuda kweTouch Panel |
| 22 | RST | Reset |
| 23 | LCD_SCK / TP_SCK | SPI wachi yeLCD/Touch Panel |
| 24 | LCD_CS | LCD chip kusarudzwa, yakaderera inoshanda |
| 26 | TP_CS | Bata Panel chip sarudzo, yakaderera inoshanda |

Figure 6: Detailed technical specifications and pinout diagram.
7.3. Muviri Dimensions

Figure 7: Dimensions of the 3.5-inch RPi LCD (C).
8. Warranty uye Tsigiro
8.1. Ruzivo rweWaranti
Specific warranty details for the Waveshare 3.5-inch Resistive Touch Screen TFT LCD XPT2046 are not provided in this manual. Please refer to the Waveshare official website or contact your point of purchase for current warranty terms and conditions.
8.2. Technical Support
For technical assistance, driver downloads, or further documentation, please visit the official Waveshare website. You may also contact Waveshare customer support directly for specialized help with product installation, configuration, or troubleshooting beyond the scope of this manual.





