Data Sheet

Use and benefits of Serial Communication
Advanced Digital Motor Controller User Manual 149
SECTION 14
Serial (RS232/
USB) Operation
This section describes the communication settings of the controller operating in the
RS232 or USB mode. This information is useful if you plan to write your own controlling
software on a PC or microcomputer.
The full set of commands accepted by the controller is provided in “Commands Refer-
ence” on page 209.
If you wish to use your PC simply to set configuration parameters and/or to exercise the
controller, you should use the RoborunPlus PC utility.
Use and benefits of Serial Communication
The serial communication allows the controller to be connected to PCs, PLC, microcom-
puters 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 complex motion control system, autonomous robots or more sophisticated
remote controlled robots than is possible using the RC 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 operating in RC or analog input, serial communication can still be used for monitor-
ing or telemetry.
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 motor
• 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