FireBeetle OSD Character Overlay Module

The FireBeetle OSD Character Overlay Module is an on-screen display expansion board powered by the AT7456E chip, designed to overlay text and graphic menus directly onto composite video signals. It connects easily via SPI and is compatible with FireBeetle mainboards, making it ideal for hobbyists and makers developing camera monitoring, robotics FPV feeds, or home automation systems.

Dedicated AT7456E video overlay

The onboard AT7456E processor delivers a single-channel OSD solution complete with video driving, a sync separator, and video switching. Compatible with both NTSC and PAL formats, it overlays up to 16 lines of 30 characters onto a 540x192 pixel composite video feed.

Customisable fonts and EEPROM storage

Alongside a built-in character set, the module features 512 bytes of EEPROM storage for user-defined characters and graphics. It supports visual effects such as blinking, colour inversion, background controls, and line-by-line brightness adjustment.

Built-in sync and drive compensation

The module includes an integrated sync generator and accepts external compound sync inputs for stable video integration. It also features attenuation compensation on the video drive output to preserve signal clarity across AV displays.

FireBeetle compatible SPI interface

Engineered to plug directly onto FireBeetle controller boards, the module communicates over a standard SPI bus for straightforward control. It operates between 3.3V and 5V with a 75mA operating current across a wide -10°C to 85°C temperature range.

Connecting hardware included

Each unit includes two AV-to-JST-2P cables alongside 2.54mm male and female headers for flexible soldering and wiring options. The compact 58mm by 29mm footprint fits neatly into camera enclosures and embedded video gear.

Downloads & documentation

• Product wiki (DFRobot)