LCD 133 Serial LCD: only displays blocks

Hi folks, have just tried to interface the LCD axe133 with my exsisting project and can only seem to get a row of blockas appearing on the top row. Adjust the contrats via the vr either makes them darker and causes the second row to appear, or they just disappear. I can't seem to get the screen to initialize and display a simple message.

I am using the code supplied with the product:

intin:

wait 3
main:
serout b.5, N2400, (254,128)
serout b.5, N2400, ("hello!! LCD")

end

any ideas with be greatfully received

The default AXE133 firmware should display a welcome message when the module is first powered up. Are you seeing that message ?

The problem of 'only black blobs' is usually a sign that the LCD itself has not been initialised so it is worth checking the soldering, that there are no pins dry soldered, missed or any shorts between pins. Check the LCD and 18M2 are the correct way round.