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AX3500 Motor Controller User’s Manual 135
Use and benefits of RS232
SECTION 14 Serial (RS-232)
Controls and
Operation
This section describes the communication settings and the commands accepted by the
AX3500 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 135.
Use and benefits of RS232
The serial port allows the AX3500 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 autono-
mous 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