Chapter 3 - SmartController Operation

3.6Installing the User Interface

WARNING: Make sure that all cables are installed correctly and fully inserted and screwed down before applying power to the system. Failure to do this could cause unexpected robot motion. Also, a connector could be pulled out or dislodged unexpectedly.

NOTE: The Adept Document Library CD-ROM is included in your shipment. This CD-ROM contains Adept’s user documentation in both HTML and PDF format. Unless otherwise specified, check this CD-ROM for documentation that is referenced in this manual.

Graphical Interface Using AdeptWindows

The Adept SmartController system includes the AdeptWindows PC software, which is a suite of application programs that provide new capabilities for the Adept SmartController and a user interface for the PC. One of these capabilities is to operate the Adept SmartController via a graphical user interface running over an Ethernet connection. The procedure for installing AdeptWindows and setting up the user interface for the Adept SmartController system is described in the AdeptWindows Installation Guide, which is included in your shipment. Refer to this document for details on installing AdeptWindows and establishing an Ethernet connection to the Adept SmartController.

NOTE: Connect the necessary Ethernet cabling between your PC and the

Adept SmartController prior to turning on the PC and controller. See

Section 2.2 on page 34.

NOTE: After installing the AdeptWindows software, refer to the AdeptWindows online help for additional information on setting up the user interface.

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Nortech Systems RS-422/485, XUSR, RS-232/TERM, XSYS Installing the User Interface, Graphical Interface Using AdeptWindows

RS-422/485, XSYS, XUSR, RS-232/TERM specifications

Nortech Systems offers a comprehensive suite of serial communication solutions, including RS-232/TERM, XUSR, XSYS, and RS-422/485 interfaces. These products are designed to facilitate reliable and high-speed data transmission in various industrial applications, making them essential for connecting devices in automation, telecommunications, and data acquisition systems.

The RS-232/TERM interface is a widely adopted standard for serial communication, known for its simplicity and robustness. It supports point-to-point communication over relatively short distances, typically up to 50 feet. Key features include a maximum baud rate of up to 115.2 kbps, error-checking capabilities, and a straightforward connection process, making it ideal for connecting peripheral devices like printers, modems, and barcode scanners.

Building on the RS-232 standard, the XUSR and XSYS devices offer enhanced functionalities and flexibility. XUSR, for instance, supports not just traditional RS-232 connections, but also protocol conversion for various serial interfaces, facilitating seamless integration of legacy systems with modern networking technologies. It is particularly useful in environments where multiple protocols need to be managed simultaneously.

XSYS is designed for more complex applications and supports advanced communication features such as multi-drop configurations, enabling it to connect multiple devices on a single bus. This makes it suitable for extensive industrial networks where space and wiring complexity need to be minimized. Synchronous and asynchronous data transfer modes ensure that the XSYS is adaptable for both real-time data collection and standard command-response applications.

On the other hand, RS-422/485 interfaces excel in long-distance communication, allowing for data transmission over distances up to 4,000 feet. They are designed for multi-point connections, supporting up to 32 devices on a single bus through differential signaling, which enhances noise immunity. These characteristics make RS-422/485 particularly well-suited for environments with electromagnetic interference, such as factories or subways.

Nortech Systems’ serial communication solutions emphasize reliability, ease of use, and versatility. With their commitment to high performance and user satisfaction, these interfaces provide critical connectivity in today’s increasingly automated and interconnected world. Whether in data centers, manufacturing setups, or remote sensor networks, Nortech's offerings stand out for their reliability, efficiency, and adaptability, ensuring effective data communication across diverse applications.