DiyLightAnimation
Hardware => Other Projects => Topic started by: rob on February 12, 2010,
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this is a hand held dmx tester and programmer. it is based on a pic18F2525 and a 20x4 lcd display GMD2004A "www.circuit-ed.com". it can send and receive full dmx 512. it started out as just a switchless device programmer for some of my stuff and for my lynx SSR4 with testing function. then it evolved. it can read eight channels of data a time with selectable address. it can read the startcode of the dmx dongle and in transmit mode the start code can be adjusted from 0 to 255 to test receivers. the transmit and receive sections each have selectable oscilloscope triggers break signal and addressable frame data, this makes it easy to look at the dmx data. start address programmer can do some switchless devices like LYNX SSR4 using sum of ch1 & ch2 "255 + 255 + 510", also has a binary mode for some of my stuff. 16 channel transmit, select a address to start at and then control 16 channels with individual level controls. broadcast all sends a adjustable level out on all 215 channels. scan address will automatically scan all 512 channels with a start stop button and manual adjustments by turning on each channel one at a time.
i have included the asm soure code, a schematic,and a pdf with the diffrent menu screen shots and explanation. i have no planes to develop a board for this project.
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Greetings,,,
Good to see more items out there.
Keith
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Looks Awesome! Why not make a pcb for it and coop it? We can help you and then in turn it would help others.
RJ
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Good job Rob!
Nice to have someone else that can take on new projects. Code is very clean and pro.
Thanks for sharing.
Leo
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Very Nice
I would like to see a Co-Op for the PCB as well.
Bill
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I'd like to see a co-op also,
Bill
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I've started laying out a PCB for myself based on the original post over at DIYC a couple of days ago and stopped pending delivery of a LCD so i can measure it up.
I would be happy to do one for a coop if rob has no objections, unless someone else want to step up first
As i already said, great job, really glad it's been shared.
Cheers
Aussiephil
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Lets coop it looks like it will be very useful.
Jeff
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This is great,
This would be a great tool to have and the DLA community would highly respect your invention.
I would join the coop
GOOD JOB
yvaliente
"Caliente Christmas"
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Nice job Rob.
I'd be in for a coop for this.
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i have no problems with any one making a coop out of this that is why i open sourced the project. i have know idea where is the best place to get circuit boards made. i used PCB express for my last project. i use eagle for my own stuff with PCB gcode and mill my one off circuit boards. i am not real sure about all the design rules, i just make it work.
maybe you guys could talk RJ into making boards with a add on for wireless tx/rx. Hint Hint
and also this little unit works really well but if some one can stream line the code a little better than i did that would be good, i am not a strong programmer.
the only little glitch there is, on power up it starts in receive mode with the receive ISR running if there is no dmx signal coming into the tester for a little more than a second TMR0 will roll over and set the NO DMX LED. every once in awhile it will take a couple of button presses to switch to the transmit section, i think it is because it re-enters the isr and i havent figured out why. most the time this is never noticed but i like pushing buttons fast and repetitively.
any 20x4 parallel lcd should work. i just picked that one cause it was cheap and a nice size.
Thanks for all the complements
Rob
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Update for those interested.
I have laid out a through hole board based on Rob's circuit with the following features.
RJ45 In-Out. Allows in line use for monitoring the DMX stream.
3 Pin Header for XLR connector
RS485 IC
16 PIN SIP Socket for LCD Module, footprint lines up with ebay modules.
LDO Regulator for use with 4xAAA Batteries, making it portable.
Tactile switches mounted to PCB or remote case mounted push buttons
Switchable Backlight.
Contrast adjustment trimpot.
RF IO Header.
Header for Scope Outputs.
To do...
Do proper footprint for LCD module and then correctly size board.
Add some onboard LED indicators.
Cheers
Aussiephil
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Greetings,,,
Watching with interest.
Keith
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Would a casing like this be a good idea for this tester?
http://www.pactecenclosures.com/Plastic-Enclosures/PPLX-9VB_2AA.html (http://www.pactecenclosures.com/Plastic-Enclosures/PPLX-9VB_2AA.html)
or maybe something like
http://www.polycase.com/item/vm-36boot.html (http://www.polycase.com/item/vm-36boot.html)
A little more expensive but, there is also the ..
http://www.pactecenclosures.com/Plastic-Enclosures/PPT-4081.html (http://www.pactecenclosures.com/Plastic-Enclosures/PPT-4081.html)
most people would only want one or two (one for spare) .. and aiming for something like these might be good.
Larry
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Larry
Nice finds, i like the idea.
If it has a battery compartment would need one that handles 4xAA or maybe 4xAAA (not as good).
Any preferences so i can make the board fit.
Cheers
Phil
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Phil: Personally, I like the Pacte Enclosure the best........ I would think there is plenty of space for 4 AA's... I didn't look at all the data to see what is available.
Larry
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If this a vote i like the
http://www.polycase.com/item/vm-36boot.html
Version RED
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Been looking over the specs for these cases, none of them seem wide enough inside, the average yum-cha 4x20 LCD display comes on a board that is 98mm x 60mm.
Personally i would prefer to have a display horizontal on a vertical handheld case, thickness might be an issue as well.
I found some cases on ebay that had 4xAA battery compartments but fell about 20mm to narrow. :(
I'll aim to make the PCB no bigger than the LCD display, it's the RJ45 connectors that may be the biggest hassle for chosing a case.
Cheers
Phil
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The easy answer to the RJ45 connector problem would be to lose them and go with a RJ45 wip instead.
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one suggestion for the lcd back light hook it directly to the battery pack through a resistor and not through the regulator like i did. it will get hot quick.
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Ok - my case choice at the moment is
http://au.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Hammond/1592ETCDGY/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMsrGrAVj6eTvcY%252b9kVJeeXCNLvLs8t4p1g%3d
Not as sexy as those coloured ones but more practical.
Cutout for the LCD, comes with bezel to hide the extra space, plenty of room for a 4 pack of AA.
Room for various switches etc. Must remember to add a power switch for battery power and external power socket.
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Hi Phil,
First off, thank you for tackling this project.
In checking availability of that case though, Mouser shows only 2 available, may have to go with this one, it shows 858 available
http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Hammond/1592ETSDBK/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMsrGrAVj6eTve6SRaySZpuDOTv7mA3dikA%3d
i think it's very similar, but can't really tell for sure, even with pdf file showing specs.
It doesn't look like it has an open window, may have to modify?
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bisquit476
Ta, I did take note of stock, Mouser has 2 each of the black and grey with the cutout and as you found lots of the no cut out (solid) ones
Both cases are identical except for the window.
the SDBK = Solid Display, Black
the CDGY = Cut Display, Grey
The cut out will be simple for most people and with a 2 week factory lead time for the black one it should not really be an issue.
Cheers
Phil
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The battery pack is another factor to consider.... two basic styles... 1x4 http://au.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Eagle-Plastic-Devices/12BH348-GR/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMupuRtfu7GC%252bS9jcusZjSP01E7ueP1Fmh4%3d
or 2x2 ... http://au.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Eagle-Plastic-Devices/12BH344D-GR/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMupuRtfu7GC%252bfSfBpKsuryicmhfZpfRWow%3d
Not the only choices within these styles... but provides a little more to chew on... I would think that the 1x4 style would be better suited for the case style being looked.
Larry
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Larry
Spot on the 1x4 is the way to go, it will fit neatly in the case with room to spare for switches etc.
The 3D drawing in the PDF is just brilliant, i can visualise just how it all goes together.
Cheers
Phil
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Update:
Here's a PCB based on the Hammond 1592 case, i've keep the majority of components out from under the Display due to the limited clearances for anyone using IC Sockets.
The display module can be mounted to the lid seperate to the main PCB and joined with a short 16 ribbon cabble. I have positioned the 16 way sip connector precisely and will add pcb support holes to the main board in case it turns out that the heights work out correctly, based on the specs. Only issue is the holes in the module i have based this on are outside the main pcb sides.
The board has just been autorouted to get a feel for the layout, if there are a few interested in proceeding with this case then i will spend some time hand routing this out.
The RJ45's are set to the side of the case as there was not room at the top due to module, They work at the side imho.
I haven't yet worked a full BOM out - tomorrow......
Cheers
Phil
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Cool
Thanks for doing this Phil
Bill
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The board has just been autorouted to get a feel for the layout, if there are a few interested in proceeding with this case then i will spend some time hand routing this out.
Phil/Rob & company,
I am interested in whatever you all come up with. Looks great!
-Paul
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I looks good. Where would the scope hookups be located?
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I looks good. Where would the scope hookups be located?
All the IO (except the rj45s) is available from headers, individuals can choose a desired external connector, plenty of space, three RCA sockets maybe.
Same for the XLR connection - three pin header.
Plus: looks like i can buy the case in Aus at only a slight premium so i get some bits ordered tomorrow so i can test fit based on some print outs.
Cheers
Phil
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Cool Project Rob/Phil.. Leave me the back open so I can add a suface mount pic and Rf module to it so I can have my wireless DMX tester I want and have not had the time to build. I think that would kick!
RJ
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http://mechanical-components.globalspec.com/SpecSearch/PartSpecs?VID=111400&Comp=968&PartId={06f12283-f569-4e47-929d-74eebd89f775}&RegEvent=new
Great job guys I just wish I had have of yall's brains well this is all I can do keep up the GREAT WORK 'now how to convince the bank
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Cool Project Rob/Phil.. Leave me the back open so I can add a suface mount pic and Rf module to it so I can have my wireless DMX tester I want and have not had the time to build. I think that would kick!
RJ
RJ
I really really want to do this with a surface mount PIC for the main one as they are simple to solder...
If you care to share the required footprint for the additional parts i would be happy to integrate, respecting your IP, the circuit would not be published as part of the original project. Or i would be happy to provide connection for a daughter board near the top of the pcb.
Your call RJ...
Cheers
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http://mechanical-components.globalspec.com/SpecSearch/PartSpecs?VID=111400&Comp=968&PartId={06f12283-f569-4e47-929d-74eebd89f775}&RegEvent=new
Great job guys I just wish I had have of yall's brains well this is all I can do keep up the GREAT WORK 'now how to convince the bank
Link wants me to sign up.... what's the case it points to?
Cheers
Phil
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Phil what program are you using for PCB layout? and some more input from RJ on what would be needed for RF interface would be great. even if he just wants a header. what i would like to know is can he make a daughter board that will accept the TX,RX,and the select from RC4 the way it is for wireless TX/RX or if he would need any thing else i will be happy to modify the code for what he needs just for that feature. also the only pins that are locked in and cannot be changed on the chip for the functions are RC6,RC7,RC5 and the crystal. every thing else can be changed at the top of the asm code program . that will make the board layout easyer. in the origional testing of the code all my switches were on port B and the LCD was on ports A and C. i will make a drawing real quick for a visual example.
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Cool Project Rob/Phil.. Leave me the back open so I can add a suface mount pic and Rf module to it so I can have my wireless DMX tester I want and have not had the time to build. I think that would kick!
RJ
Now that would be awesome!
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Phil what program are you using for PCB layout? and some more input from RJ on what would be needed for RF interface would be great. even if he just wants a header. what i would like to know is can he make a daughter board that will accept the TX,RX,and the select from RC4 the way it is for wireless TX/RX or if he would need any thing else i will be happy to modify the code for what he needs just for that feature. also the only pins that are locked in and cannot be changed on the chip for the functions are RC6,RC7,RC5 and the crystal. every thing else can be changed at the top of the asm code program . that will make the board layout easyer. in the origional testing of the code all my switches were on port B and the LCD was on ports A and C. i will make a drawing real quick for a visual example.
Rob, i use WinQcad, i like it and have got good at using it now. I'm already bouncing the TX,RX via a 6 pin header that provides 5v and ground for use with Wireless, need to make that a 8 pin to add select, three jumpers to use internal rs485.... now if you then added a switch you could select wired or wireless as required. mmm
I'm happy with the pin assignments for the board layout, i've complicated it with all the headers for various bits. Hand routing it will be simple and tidy it up really well, it will change from the post last night.
Well it will be simple after the 120ch controller i finished couple nights ago... now i know how RJ felt doing the freestyle :)
Cheers
Phil
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Phil, maybe make the wired / wireless option software selectable?
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Phil, maybe make the wired / wireless option software selectable?
But i so love a good toggle switch :)
I some ways the existing header takes care of it at a practical level
cheers
Phil
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Update: 11.45pm local time
New layout.
Added RJ45 footprints so you can put this into a normal ABS Case and have the cables at one end
Wireless Header increased to 7 pins to allow for select line to be taken off board.
Provision to mount LCD (90 degrees) to work in the ABS case rather than chosen case. Haven't quite got room to duplicate the switch footprints.
Still only auto routed at this stage, i will need to tweak the RJ45's once i have the case in hand then i can complete the routing correctly.
Provisonal PCB cost delivered to me
20 - $12.00 each
50 - $8.00 each
100 - $5.75 each
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Greetings,,,
Watching with interest.
Keith
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Looks very nice; having a 4-line display makes things much easier than my 2-line version. I too had difficulty finding a good case, preferrably with the LCD cutout already. The board layout looks good, but the VCC/GND stripes look too thn.
/mike
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http://mechanical-components.globalspec.com/SpecSearch/PartSpecs?VID=111400&Comp=968&PartId={06f12283-f569-4e47-929d-74eebd89f775}&RegEvent=new
Great job guys I just wish I had have of yall's brains well this is all I can do keep up the GREAT WORK 'now how to convince the bank
Link wants me to sign up.... what's the case it points to?
http://partimages.globalspec.com/48/1148/36148_large.png Heres a picture
Cheers
Phil
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Looks very nice; having a 4-line display makes things much easier than my 2-line version. I too had difficulty finding a good case, preferrably with the LCD cutout already. The board layout looks good, but the VCC/GND stripes look too thn.
/mike
Whilst the cutout might be larger than required on the case i found the website says they are supplied with a mask/cutout kit that hides the extra space, so this should work, i'll know when i get a case in my hand.
Mike remember that is purely an autorouted board, all traces will be re-drawn to correct widths once i have final component placements :)
Jeff: they look interesting - can you get technical drawing for those so i can check if design pcb fits?
Phil
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Looks very nice; having a 4-line display makes things much easier than my 2-line version. I too had difficulty finding a good case, preferrably with the LCD cutout already. The board layout looks good, but the VCC/GND stripes look too thn.
/mike
Whilst the cutout might be larger than required on the case i found the website says they are supplied with a mask/cutout kit that hides the extra space, so this should work, i'll know when i get a case in my hand.
Mike remember that is purely an autorouted board, all traces will be re-drawn to correct widths once i have final component placements :)
Jeff: they look interesting - can you get technical drawing for those so i can check if design pcb fits?
http://www.rose-bopla.com/Prod_Pgs/Handhelds/Prod_04_BG_Handheld_Series.htm
The cad Drawings are provided hope this helps
Phil
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looks like a cool project, have you looked at frys electronics they have some cases in the store that have a cutout and battery compartment in the same case
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Phil can you fit an EX/RX in it ? Use the same fittings and I will mod a EXRX with the new module for it. It has the 3.3v reg on it we can bend over like in the SSR's.
RJ
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Phil can you fit an EX/RX in it ? Use the same fittings and I will mod a EXRX with the new module for it. It has the 3.3v reg on it we can bend over like in the SSR's.
RJ
RJ
I'll make that a very definate maybe, i'll check tonight. It looks like it will be too high with the default connectors you use though.
Assume the v2 board is the same essential layout as a v1 board.
Will the v2 EX/RX be able to transmit?
Cheers
Phil
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Let me put it this way,
Only the modified one I do for this, if you can get it in there.
Yes ver1 is the same as ver 2 ex/rx except I added some leds.
How about no connectors? we just solder leads in both sides holes to attach it direct to your pcb? need to keep the antenna in the clear as much as possible.
RJ
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RJ
i'll leave the masses to clamour........
the 2x4 connector setup is easy, plenty of room as long as the physical board fits in the space i can picture, antenna should be ok.
I actually suspect that the new v2 tx/rx board would fit as well, and could work really well.
As far as not connectors, i already have a seven pin .1" header that exposes TX/RX/SEL, easy to have it cabled as well :)
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hello Phil
looks like you are having fun. for your sake i would lock into one case style. dump the extra header for the lcd and the two extra RJ45 jack locations. only a few people would use the o-scope trigger not that big of a deal to most. i think the biggest deal is making sure RJ wireless board can fit in there with a on/off switch it , cause that is going to be a battery life sucker if it is not used . i can add a menu at the begining to select wireless on and off but i dont know if we can just use a mosfet to supply power to RJ wireless card or not. may be just as easy to put a slide switch on the side. the other thing i wonder about is if the wireless card is just piggy backed onto the same signals as the RS485 chip should that be switched as well or can we just add a resistor network to keep the two from fighting each other. would not be that big of a deal on the TX side of things but on the receiving side of things since the 485 chip is driving RC7 on the pic high when no dmx input. that will keep the wireless unit from putting signal into the dmx tester. i am more than willing to help change anything in the source code and help with hardware a digital switch could be added to help with the switching of the signals.
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Rob,
Love a good challenge.
The two case styles add huge versatilty and cost nothing. except my time to tweak the board layout and think in 3D.
I've just drawn a footprint for the EXRX based on the v1 board i have here and the RF module antenna, the good news is it seems to physical fit in the 1592 case with the antenna in the clear to the left hand side of the LCD window top bit, might not be the ideal orientation but it fits.
The next measurement will be 3D vertically and i won't confirm that till i have a 1592 case in my hand, based on measurements and the case cad drawing it will be tight having to go over the through hole pic, a SMT PIC would make life a bit easier.
The SMT pics are simple to solder , see picture :)
I think the slide switch will be a simple solution to turn wireless on and off. I actually plan to build mine with a row on pushbuttons in the case below the display and then things like power switch and DMX terminate as toggles on the bottom half with unit.
A toggle can also be used to switch from wired to wireless if you build it with a wireless option, thus removing the piggyback issue, i had already solved the issue by using the seven pin header, just need to now ensure that i now add a couple of pins so its fully selectable.
Cheers
Phil
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smt don't scare me. i am with you, it is easier to work imho. Here is some pics of a allegro 6281 3 chan led driver mounted on a board that i made with a modified sheline cnc mill. it is a 16pin QFN that is 3mm x 3mm. i am happier with the mill being able to mill the .2mm or .008" between the pads. than my ability to mount the chip on the board . it was a fun project.
I am glad you are having fun with this project and very happy you picked it up.
Rob
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Rob
Nice milling job.
the no lead QFN packages do scare me as you just can't an underchip short, my 120ch board uses
LQFP48: plastic low profile quad flat package; 48 leads; body 7 x 7 x 1.4 mm
They will be scary enough, plan is for anyone who wants a board that i will reflow solder these in place as part of the pcb before sending :)
anyway off-topic.
Back on, i have ordered a case, it should be here monday, hopefully the LCD will arrive during the week then i can confirm all the spacings, till then it's back to other stuff for a few days... must update the other thread as well.
Cheers
Phil
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Just use a DPDT slide switch to switch the RS485 in and out on one pole and power on and off to the wireless on the other so one switch enables and disables the wireless.
Phil I not sure on what you are thinking with the header but I need 5v and ground and the out of the rs485 chip to the wireless tx setup.
RJ
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Just use a DPDT slide switch to switch the RS485 in and out on one pole and power on and off to the wireless on the other so one switch enables and disables the wireless.
Phil I not sure on what you are thinking with the header but I need 5v and ground and the out of the rs485 chip to the wireless tx setup.
RJ
RJ,
The Header currently exposes the following
1 - RX RS485
2 - RX PIC Chip
3 - 5v
4 - Gnd
5 - TX Pic Chip
6 - TX Rs485
7 - Select (DE/DI?)
Jumper 1-2 and 5-6 for wired, remove jumpers and connect cable for wireless.
Plan to change to.
1 - RX RS485
2 - RX PIC Chip
3 - RX Wireles Pic
4 - 5v
5 - Gnd
6 - TX Wireless Pic
7 - TX Pic Chip
8 - TX Rs485
9 - Select (DE/DI?)
If you use a switch then leave header pins off and wire switch direct to board.
I'll wire the EXRX module to pins 3,4,5. TX trace could go to an un-used module pin as well
If i'm not making sense sorry, i can visualise but not always explain.
Phil
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What I am trying to do is use an existing pcb. I can not afford to develop another pcb just for this so that is what I am getting at. Can we get a EX/RX in it as the EX/RX is somehow? If so I can make it a transmitter.
It does not have to have wireless, it is just something I have been planning for a couple years and just have not got around to yet.
RJ
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I think Phil's idea is to leave the connector off the RX/EX and instead put on a pigtail that plugs into the appropriate pins (TX pic, +5, GND) of the tester, either directly for the wireless version, or through a switch if you want to be able to switch between wired and wireless. If you don't want wireless at all, just jumper the PIC pins to the 75176 pins.
If the RX/EX doesn't need to send data back to the tester, it gets easier since you don't need to disconnect the 75176 since it doesn't matter if you send data out the RJ45 when you are in wireless mode. Then the switch is simply a DPST to open +5 and TXD when you want to turn off the wireless.
/mike
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What I am trying to do is use an existing pcb. I can not afford to develop another pcb just for this so that is what I am getting at. Can we get a EX/RX in it as the EX/RX is somehow? If so I can make it a transmitter.
It does not have to have wireless, it is just something I have been planning for a couple years and just have not got around to yet.
RJ
The EX/RX board will fit (just need to confirm vertical space) plenty of room on the main PCB i just need to know which pin on that module you want the TX trace to be attached to.
Phil
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I think Phil's idea is to leave the connector off the RX/EX and instead put on a pigtail that plugs into the appropriate pins (TX pic, +5, GND) of the tester, either directly for the wireless version, or through a switch if you want to be able to switch between wired and wireless. If you don't want wireless at all, just jumper the PIC pins to the 75176 pins.
If the RX/EX doesn't need to send data back to the tester, it gets easier since you don't need to disconnect the 75176 since it doesn't matter if you send data out the RJ45 when you are in wireless mode. Then the switch is simply a DPST to open +5 and TXD when you want to turn off the wireless.
/mike
Close but not quite.
I have enough room to provide direct plug in connection for the EXRX board as is, the EXRX currently has RX +5 and Gnd connections, these will have traces laid direct back to the 9 way jumper/header block.
If it is to be used for TX, it would be good if RJ allocated a spare pin for TX.
Three options then open up.
Jumper for wired use only
Jumper for wireless use only
extend connections to toggle switch and switch wired and wireless.
I guess i'm not explaining this very well.
Phil
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I uploaded a new ASM file in the first post. I found a glitch in the transmit menu under 16ch transmit i was not clearing out the channel counter upon re-entry to 16 channel transmit. reload the file if you have already saved it.
Rob
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Update with photos
Case arrived today so thought i would see what fitted. Just grabbed some perfboard and a EXRX pcb
EXRX fits but will be real tight, no socket, icsp header shorted etc, but it does fit with the LCD module i got.
LCD Module when plugged into header socket, (only had double row to test), fit's neatly up to the clear plastic bezel, near perfect.
Case came with clear bezel and black mask to cut and apply, and good instructions on doing so.
Rob is just doing some work on the firmware then i can finalise the main pcb
any questions just ask.
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More Photos
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Greetings,,,
Great, moving right along.
Keith
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Lookin' Great! 8)
Larry
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Looking good. 8)
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Looks Good
Bill
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Looks crap.... Oh... I mean looks good!
<la..
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Looking good phil hats off to you and Rob for upgrading this project. <res.
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Hello Everybody.
thought i would give you a update. i am waiting on some parts from mouser. I am going to try a better way of detecting no DMX input and reverse connection. also working on some source code to detect the received packet timing, break,MAB, frame, refresh rate, and count the number of frames. i have the timing detection working but i still have to put it in to the rest of the program to see how well it all plays together. i am using 3 of the 4 16bit timers to catch the timing data. that is why i am trying a hardware approach to detecting DMX signal and hope fully i will be able to detect reverse connection. also in the order from mouser is a 3.3volt pic chip gonna try that out it will give a longer run time on batteries.
the hand held programmer as it stands right now is great. i am actually using to develope the new code.
i would not discourage any one form building it on a perf board. I am just trying to keep Phil from having to make two board designs.
Thanks
Rob
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A quick search found this for detecting an open in the DMX line:
http://focus.ti.com/lit/an/slyt257/slyt257.pdf
/mike
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that is what i found. thought i would give it a try.
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here are a couple of pictures of it picking up the data timing, using dmxpro utility one is at 10Hz refresh rate and the other is at 40Hz refresh rate. I could not get my O-scope pictures to come out readable at all, but with the DMXpro set at 40Hz refresh accual readings from the O-scope 39.9828 Hz , 192us break, and 12 to 12.5us for MAB. the channel count + startcode comes out at 513 and works well, i used a velleman USB-DMX interface to test it. It will read out the proper short packet reading. I still have some work to do on the code and hardware. i will try to have it finished by next week end.
Rob
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That is really turning into a awesome device! <res.
RJ
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Greetings,,,
Looks great!
Keith
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waiting anxiously... <pop..
-Paul
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Rob
Thanks for the update, just let me know when you lock in the pin assignments and i'll hand route the pcb... everything seems to fit :)
Great work <res.
Cheers
Phil
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Phil
got the new schematic ready for ya. the code will be finalized and posted a little later. it all works together just fine. now i have to add the extra menus for the data display. i will do a new pdf manual
and post the code and the schematic all together for every one. about the only thing that changes are the pins the switches are on and a resistor from RC7 to RC2 for the CCP. i have tested the received timing as far as the enttec dmx pro will allow from a refresh rate of 40hz down to 1hz it seems to be with in a few tenths of microsecond. as far as i can tell by calculations and the o-scope.
Rob
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Rob-
I'd hook up pins 15 and 16 on the display to 5V with a series resistor; that way you can use a backlit display if you want to, and can leave the resistor off if you don't. Also, there are a few connections without junction dots, where a signal connect to a pin at right angles, for example, the hot side of R4 . This may just be a quirk of Eagle.
/mike
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Mike that is my quirk i will update and repost . as far as the back light i would really suggest picking a resistor value according to the battery or power supply that is used. running it from the regulator makes some extra heat.
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Hi,
What a great tester!! :) I fortunately have a Doug Flenor Gizmo but the one you guys are designing is great. I came across another case company. A buddy uses their aluminum case for some two-way radio interfaces he has built.
The cases look pretty nice. I have not seen any of the plastic cases. I do like the protective sleeves!!
http://www.boxenclosures.com/category/category_product.html?cats__id=1000
KEN
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Mike that is my quirk i will update and repost . as far as the back light i would really suggest picking a resistor value according to the battery or power supply that is used. running it from the regulator makes some extra heat.
Rob, thanks for the update. The regulator i've chosen should be fine from a 3 week old memory.
Mike, backlighting already taken into account on my redraw of the circuit. I added the backlight switch and resistor as a matter of course.
Ken, they look nice but the 100mm (4inch) wide 4x20 lcd won't fit :(
Cheers
Phil
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here is the hex file for the handheld DMX tester/programmer. it is all the same but with a new menu added under the receive section. DMX TIMING it catches the break, MAB, first FRAME timing, break to break time, refreshrate and number of channels + startcode.. there are some limits to the timing BREAK,MAB,and FRAME timing are all limited to 6553.5us it wont accuratly catch any thing over 6ms, break to break timing is unlimited it has been tested from 1Hz to 40Hz with a enttec dmx pro and up to 44Hz with the other handheld tester. it was also tested with the DMX minimum packet timing of 1196us or 836Hz. that would be
break 88us + MAB 8us + start code 44us +(24ch X 44us). the closes i could get it was 1199.3us but it works. I will get a new pdf put together with the added menu. Hope you guys enjoy.
Rob
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Greetings,,,
Thanks to you guys for working on this!
Keith
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Wow! You guys must be having fun. <res.
-Paul
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Any updates on this project? time frame? <pop..
Charles
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I have not added any thing new. but i still need to add the dmx timing information to the manual. i have been busy with projects around the house.
Rob
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well i decided that i will try to wrap this project up in a hand held case and see about getting board made. i just ordered a hand held enclosure that has a battery holder for 4AA . will put in 2 rj45 connector, dc power jack, back lit pushbuttons.
Rob
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I'm looking forward to seeing a completed one!
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COOL!!! When is the Coop?!?!?!?!
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Rob thanks for the up date on your project <res.
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so no one is in suspense. give me a couple of weeks to get it together, i have a bunch of honey get it done now's to take care of. then we will work out the details of a coop.
Rob
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Rob,
thanks for picking this back up, i just ran out of time the last while and this dropped right of the radar.
the enclosure and all is still here, right beside me, just sheer lack of time finalizing my controllers and the firmware for them.
I will still finish my board as soon as i find time.
Cheers
Phil
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Put me down for one! Like I don't have enough to do now anyway! ;D
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I am still working on it. here is a picture of the prototype i put together for home use about a month ago. it is just two pieces of plexiglass. added the led back lit tact switches to it to test them. i put a couple of pictures up to show with and with out back light on . The project case i plan to put it into is around the same size as a fluke meter.
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looks good Rob thanks for pursuing this. <res.
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Can't wait for it to be cooped.
RJ
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Not meaning to add any pressure to anyone but anything new on this?
I want a DMX "sniffer" and this looks great!!!!
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Sorry still working on it i hope to have sometime soon. Found a little issue receive isr code it workes good but every now and then I get a glitch with no dmx input and it gets stuck in the isr. And i am kinda waiting for the wireless coop boards. i wanted to be able to piggy back a ex/rx on the unit to watch wireless data. so it is a plug in solution that snaps to the back or the side.
I have not forgotten you guys.
thanks
Rob
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Once again, thanks for the update Rob. I'm really looking foward to this coop starting.
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i wanted to be able to piggy back a ex/rx on the unit to watch wireless data. so it is a plug in solution that snaps to the back or the side.
Rob:
That makes perfect sense. Also, puts more pressure on Bill ;-) ...
\dmc
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Hello all . I spent the weekend digging into the isr lock up issue with no DMX input on the receive side of things and i got it hammered out. I sent my money in for the wireless coop shipping. so in a couple of weeks i should have something.
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Hello all . I spent the weekend digging into the isr lock up issue with no DMX input on the receive side of things and i got it hammered out. I sent my money in for the wireless coop shipping. so in a couple of weeks i should have something.
That is awesome news. Look forward to the coop <pop..
RJ
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I sent my money in for the wireless coop shipping. so in a couple of weeks i should have something.
I eagerly await!
Ditto
Harrison
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I have not forgot you guys. i am still working on the tester. i have received my wireless kits and am working on adding a connection so it can be pluged in on the out side of the unit. i also started a new job working as a cnc machine repair tech, and that is taking up some of my free time to work on the tester. i have some more parts comming this week. a different display that may make layout of the board better. also switches are giving me some issues. the way i have it set up now with the illuminated tactile switches mounted on the board, i have to use a clear acrylic rod machined down to poke through the case and then build a guide for them to make sure they stay in the case. i don't have a problem doing it but it really limits the diy part of the project. i am trying to find switches that can be mounted to the case and wired to the board, or ones that are the right length to board mount them and have them project through the front of the case. if any one has any ideas on switches that will work please let me know i am very open to sujestions.
the best thing to take away from this is
it will happen. just takes a little bit more planing than i thought.
Rob
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Thanks for the update Rob, we'll just <pop.. <pop..
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Yes, Rob, those of us who have tried to build public projects can feel your pain ... just keep at it and we'll get it when we get it.
Thanks so much.
\dmc
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Just looking to see if I missed out on the coop for the DMX handheld tester?
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Just looking to see if I missed out on the coop for the DMX handheld tester?
The last we heard from Rob was in late August ... there is similar project afoot in this very sub-forum ... http://diylightanimation.com/index.php?topic=4279.0 ...
\dmc
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Is he still working on the hand held device?
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No coop yet. I am still having a hard time packaging it. The firmware works so does the schematic. I just need to make time to set down and finish it. The push buttons are what is killing me. I want something off the shelf that every one can get, instead of the machined buttons currently in use.
I didn't mean for this to fall on it's face. the new job really take away alot of free time.
Thank you
Rob