RoboteQ AX2850 Connecting the Controller to the PC, Using the Roborun Configuration Utility

Using the Roborun Configuration Utility

•after the installation is complete, run the program from your Start Menu > Programs > Roboteq

The controller does not need to be connected to the PC to start the Utility.

Connecting the Controller to the PC

The controller must be connected to the PC to use the Utility to perform any of the follow- ing functions:

•to read the current parameters stored in the controller and display them on the computer

•to store new parameters in the controller

•to exercise the motors using your PC

•to update the controller’s software

•calibrate the Amps sensor

If the controller is not connected, the Configuration Utility can run and be used to automat- ically generate the setting codes for manual entry. See “Encoder Setting and Testing” on page 184.

Most computers have at least one, but often times two, serial ports. Look for one or two connectors resembling the illustration in Figure 97.

FIGURE 97. Look for a 9-pin male connector on your PC

If a serial port connector is already connected to something else, it may be possible to unplug the current device and temporarily connect the controller as long as the software operating the current device is not running. If no serial port is available on your PC, use an USB to RS232 adapter.

Connect the provided serial cable to the controller on one end and to the PC on the other.

Power the controller, preferably using the yellow Power Control wire, with a 12 to 40V bat- tery or power supply with 200mA of minimum output.

Connect the Controller’s Ground to the negative (-) terminal, and the Power Control input to the positive (+) of the power supply. The controller will turn On. If it doesn’t, verify that the polarity is not reversed. Leave VMot unconnected unless you want to exercise the Motors.

Upon powering On, the controller will display “no ctrl” if configured in the R/C mode or a steady pattern if configured in the RS232 mode.

178 AX2550 Motor Controller User’s Manual Version 1.9b. June 1, 2007