Describe how NASA remotely controls equipment in space. EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads

Introduction to Microcontrollers and the Parallax Boe-Bot Hello World Introduction to Microcontrollers and the Parallax Boe-Bot EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads Update: 7/20/2010

What is a Microcontroller? The BASIC Stamp 2 It’s a programmable device that is designed into your digital wristwatch, cell phone, calculator, clock radio, etc. In these devices, the microcontroller has been programmed to sense when you press a button, make electronic beeping noises, and control the device’s digital display. They are also built into factory machinery, cars, submarines, and spaceships because they can be programmed to read sensors, make decisions, and orchestrate devices that control moving parts. EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads Source: Robotics with the Boe-Bot, Andy Lindsay

The BASIC Stamp The BASIC stamp is actually a PIC (Peripheral Interface Controller) microcontroller (Microchip PIC16C57) packaged in an integrated circuit. BASIC Stamps are manufactured by Parallax Inc. and come in different versions (with different speed, memory, and control options). EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads

Parallax BS2 Editor / Compiler PBASIC Version: 2.5 Stamp Mode: BS2 File Structure Download/Run Button PBASIC Program Syntax Check Programs in current file BASIC Commands Comments EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads

What is PBASIC ? The programming language we will use to program the BASIC Stamp 2 microcontroller. Parallax - Company that invented and makes BASIC Stamp microcontrollers. Beginners – Originally designed for beginners to use to learn how to program computers All-purpose - Powerful and useful for solving many different kinds of problems Symbolic - Using symbols (terms that resemble English word/phrases) Instruction - To instruct a computer how to solve problems Code - In terms that you and the computer understand EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads

Writing a Program in PBASIC Select the BS2 icon. Select the PBASIC 2.5 icon. Type in DEBUG line shown. Save the file on your USB as “Hello World”. EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads

Jumper Check EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads

Preparing your Circuit Board Handle the board by its edges. Plug transformer into wall. Plug transformer output into circuit board. EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads

Running a Program (connected to PC and without servos) Write/modify program in BASIC Stamp Editor. Run Syntax Check and make corrections as needed. With toggle switch in “0” (off) position, connect Serial / USB cable to BOE-Bot. Move toggle switch to “1” (Stamp on) position. Download program. (program starts running immediately) Press RESET button on BOE-Bot to re-run the program. When complete, move toggle switch back to “0”. RESET button BS2 on Motors on EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads

Run “Hello World” Connect your BS2 circuit board to your PC. Turn on the BS2. Run the Syntax Check Download/Run the program. EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads

“Hello World” Output EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads

Vocabulary Microcontroller – a device that can be programmed to read sensors, make decisions, and orchestrate devices that control moving parts. BASIC - Beginners, All-purpose, Symbolic, Instruction, Code Editor/Compiler - Computer program designed to enter (edit) computer program code and compile it into machine code that a microprocessor / microcontroller can execute. Syntax – the specific code that an editor can understand and compile. Handout: Unit 1 Vocabulary EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads

Assignment Run “Hello World” at home (to make sure your editor is working properly) Handout: List of Common PBASIC Commands EM02 - M. Nelson NASA-Threads