Jim and All,
There is no need for level shifters on the I2C lines.
An I2C 1602 LCD runs just fine with 3.3v levels on the I2C lines, because the 3.3v is well above the 2.5V logic 1 threshold.
I have used this technique on over 6 projects, and it works like a charm.
Be aware: on the FTDI board with the 1602 LCD, it is necessary to remove the pullups to 5v on the I2C lines. It is easy to
locate the pullups; they are close to the far end of the board away from the board-edge connector. You can ring them out
with an ohmmeter.
All you need is a hardware mod on the Raduino to bring the I2C lines to the LCD connector.
Regards,
Rod KM6SN
