RoboteQ AX500 manual Serial RS-232 Controls Operation, Use and benefits of RS232

Use and benefits of RS232

SECTION 12

Serial (RS-232)

Controls and

Operation

This section describes the communication settings and the commands accepted by the AX500 in the RS232 mode of operations. This information is useful if you plan to write your own controlling software on a PC or microcomputer. These commands will also allow you to send commands manually using a terminal emulation program. If you wish to use your PC simply to set parameters and/or to exercise the controller, you should use the Roborun utility described on page 101.

Use and benefits of RS232

The serial port allows the AX500 to be connected to microcomputers or wireless modems. This connection can be used to both send commands and read various status information in real-time from the controller. The serial mode enables the design of autonomous robots or more sophisticated remote controlled robots than is possible using the R/C mode.

RS232 commands are very precise and securely acknowledged by the controller. They are also the method by which the controller’s features can be accessed and operated to their fullest extent.

When connecting the controller to a PC, the serial mode makes it easy to perform simple diagnostics and tests, including:

•Sending precise commands to the motors

•Reading the current consumption values and other parameters

•Obtaining the controller’s software revision and date

•Reading inputs and activating outputs

•Setting the programmable parameters with a user-friendly graphical interface

•Updating the controller’s software

AX500 Motor Controller User’s Manual 101