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AX500 Motor Controller User’s Manual 101
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