Al's Robotics....

PSS1

Serial Servo Controller

This is one of my new projects that I'm currently working on. The idea is simple, to control as many servos as possible by an RS232 port using a PIC 16F628. the RS232 port takes up 2 ports on the PIC leaving only 11 ports free, so the unit will be able to control 10 servos with the last port on the PIC kept for future updates.

Why an RS232 port (serial), well it's a "standard" communication device (check out the back of your computer, the serial port should have a making next to it like this 10101 or something). using the RS232 makes it easy to integrate into project designs as you can control it from a PC, Basic Stamp, PIC, or any thing that can generate the RS232 commands.

As usual I'll be selling a ready programmed PIC with the code on and a ready made unit so all you have to do is plug it in and play.

Servo Controller serial settings:

The PSS1 speed controller comes set by default to the following settings:

• 9600 Baud Rate (can be reprogrammed)
• 8 Data Bits
• Parity None
• 1 Stop Bit
• No Flow Control

The Baud Rate at which the PSS1 servo controller communicates may be changed to one of three settings, 2400 Baud, 4800 Baud and 9600 Baud.
Setting the Baud is a very simple task and is very fail safe. Simply send the decimal number 240, this sets the SSCR_1 speed controller into reprogram mode, you can then send the following decimal number to set the Baud Rate: 24 for 2400 Baud, 48 for 4800 Baud and 96 for 9600 Baud.
It is important that once the PSS1 is set into Baud reprogram mode that you only send one of the above numbers, otherwise you will not be able to communicate with PSS1. If at boot time the PSS1 detects that an invalid Baud rate setting has been programmed into it, it will default back to 9600.

After you have finished reprogramming Baud Rate setting you must restart the PSS1 servo controller by removing all power to the board. At the next boot time your new Baud Rate will be implemented.

Example of reprogramming the Baud to 4800:

Serial send the decimal number “240” this sets Baud reprogram mode
Serial send the decimal number “48” this sets the new Baud speed
You will then receive a confirmation from the PSS1 that is decimal “255”

Restart the PSS1 by removing all power, reconnect power after a few seconds and your new Baud Rate settings will be implemented.

For further information and how to order please send an e-mail.

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