Hi Alan,

If possible, use the ready bit instead of a delay routine, as the delay has to vary with the type of operation.
Also, once you've set the DPTR to point to the LCD, you don't need to re-set it (lcall DO).
If the 1st line stays *black*, the display has not been initialised correctly : it needs 3x38 to start off with!
If you have to use a delay routine, try using a huge value (100mS?).
Look again at the tutorial here, & check the display data sheet.

Regards,

Richard.be

P.S. In a good mood right now - found an answer to a "fixup" problem here!