RoboteQ AX3500 Using the Console, Using the Roborun Configuration Utility, Terminal Screen

Using the Roborun Configuration Utility

A joystick test program name “Joytest” is automatically installed in the Start menu when installing the Roborun utility. This program may be used to further verify that the joystick is properly installed in the PC and is fully operational.

Using the Console

The console screen allows you to communicate with the controller using raw ASCII data. This function is very useful for troubleshooting when normal communication with Roborun cannot be established (e.g. “Controller not found”, no response to command changes, communication errors, ...etc.). The Roborun utility will let you exercise and monitor the motors, sensors and actuators using a computer. This feature is particularly useful during development as you will be able to visualize, in real-time, the robot’s Amps consumption and other vital statistics during actual operating conditions.

Figure 109 shows the Console Screen and its various components.

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FIGURE 110. Raw ASCII data exchange in Console

1- Terminal Screen

This area displays the raw ASCII data as it comes out of the controller. After the controller is reset, it will output a prompt with the firmware’s revision and date. Then, if in the RC or Analog mode, the controller will output a continuous string of characters for data logging. If in RS232 mode, the controller will output an “OK” prompt and is ready to accept com- mands.

2- Command Entry

This window is used to prepare up to 3 command string and send them by clicking on their associated buttons. The string is sent to the controller when clicking on the send button. Commands can only be sent when the controller has entered in RS232 mode. See “Con- troller Commands and Queries” on page 142 for the complete list of commands and que-

196 AX3500 Motor Controller User’s Manual Version 1.9b. June 1, 2007