TactaBoard

Quick Start Guide

This document describes what you need to do to get the TactaBoard connected and working with your system.

Supplying Power

The TactaBoard has two separate power supplies, one for the microprocessor and one for the outputs. This was done to allow the board to control outputs with a range of eletrical requirements (e.g., 1.3V pager motors, 12V muffin fans).

The power connector for the microprocessor, labeled "Board Power" on the TactaBox, requires a 6-9V power supply. The power connector for the outputs, labeled "Output Power," requires a 1.3-4V power supply to power a typical pager motor. Both of these power supplies are NEGATIVE TIP. Flip both power switches to the UP position in order to start the power flowing.

Serial Communication

The TactaBox uses a serial cable with a female DB-9 connector on one end, and a 3.5mm phono plug on the other. A female 3.5mm phono jack is mounted on the TactaBox. Communication from the host is done using the RS-232 standard. See the protocol page for the latest info on the protocol to communicate with the TactaBoard.

Output Connectors

The TactaBox has 16 female 2.5mm mini-phono jacks to use for connecting the outputs. The actual TactaBoard has friction-lock headers for applications that are better suited to direct connection.

Analog Inputs

The current version of the firmware supports accessing 8 analog inputs connected to the TactaBoard. These inputs provide 8-bit resolution, and can be querried using the protocol for the TactaBoard.

Testing Things

Here are some things to try if you are having problems:

Make sure the board power is negative-tip, and is feeding about 6-9 volts.
Make sure the output power is negative-tip, and is feeding 1.3-4.0 volts.
1. Make sure the power switches are turned on ;-)
Make sure the COM port is set correctly in the GUI. You can switch it in the "Port" menu.
Once you have all this correct, clicking on one of the squares above the sliders in the GUI will send a query command for that output to get the current value from the TactaBoard. This is a good way to see if you are actually communicating with the board.
If you pass the test in Step 4, then the problems might be due to a bad tactor, a bad cable, or something else.
If you DON'T pass Step 4, then you need to go back and check your setup. Also, open up the box and check that all the connectors are seated tightly.