Table of Contents

1. Microcontroller Software Update V 1.1
2. How to Connect Your Microcontroller Unit to Your Computer
3. Turntable Shaft Mount Issue
4. Frequently Asked Questions

 

1. Microcontroller Software Update: V 1.1

Microcontroller Software Update: V 1.1
Click here to download Version 1.1 of the Microcontroller Software. You can also use this to preview the software before buying our Microcontroller kit.

V 1.1 Release Notes: There is only one small functional change in this release. Click here to download the release notes.

 

2. How to Connect Your Microcontroller Unit to Your Computer

Software Installation and Operating Instructions (PDF 1.3 mb)
Start here if you are having trouble getting your microcontroller to connect to your computer through the infrared software interface.

Also, make sure you download and install the new Microcontroller Software, V 1.1, above.

If you are still having trouble connecting to your computer:
With some computers, problems may arise with the data communication between the microcontroller and computer via the infrared interface. If everything is working correctly, you will see a constant voltage displayed at the bottom left corner of the Direct window in the Microcontroller program when connected to the Hardware test (#1) assembly running the HardwareTest1.k program (this program comes pre-installed on your Microcontroller).

If the voltage displayed is not constant — for example, it spikes and then drops to zero again and again — then there are problems with the interface. This will affect the transmission of programs or measurement data.

Here is the solution:

Download and copy the file “kosmos.ini” into the directory:
C:\Windows\

This is a configuration file that contains data that will help the Microcontroller program function properly. In the file, there is a Timeout Setting that tells the program how many milliseconds to wait for an answer from the Microcontroller:

[Time]
;Values between 20 and 500
MAXTimeout = 300

The entry MAXTimeout = 300 can be also changed by entering a shorter time (e.g. MAXTimeout = 100) or a longer one (e.g. MAXTimeout = 500). 300 should be an adequate setting for every computer.

Click here to download the file kosmos.ini.

 

3. Turntable Shaft Mount Issue

Some users have reported that the plastic shaft mount for the turntable does not fit tightly enough onto the motor shaft, and thus spins around freely.
This can be fixed easily by wrapping a small piece of adhesive tape around the motor shaft before sliding the shaft mount onto it. This will increase the motor shaft’s diameter slightly and create a tighter fit. Also, since the motor is only used with the turntable attached, you can glue the shaft mount to the motor shaft by putting some glue onto the shaft before sliding the shaft mount onto it.
If you would like a replacement shaft mount, please call Customer Service at 800-587-2872.

 

4. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What type of microcontroller is used in the Microcontroller kit?
A: The microcontroller is an ATtiny2313, manufactured by Atmel. You can find manufacturer's specifications for the microcontroller on Atmel’s website.

Q: What programming language is used in the Microcontroller kit?
A: A very simple programming language is used. It is not a common language and was created specifically for this kit. It is a mixture of BASIC and ASSEMBLER. Functions can be dragged and dropped from lists into the program window. Prior knowledge of any other programming language is not necessary.

Q: How many times can I upload new programs to the Microcontroller?
A: The internal EEPROM of the microcontroller has an endurance of at least 100,000 Write/Erase Cycles. Thus, new programs can be uploaded 100,000 times.

Q: What does the alert dialog "Dateizugriff verweigert" mean?
A: This is German for "Write permission denied." You will see this if you try to save a program to a location that is locked or write protected.

Q: What type of power adapter do you recommend for the Microcontroller?
A: We recommend the Radio Shack AC-to-DC Power Adapter (9V 300mA) with the “N” plug.

Q: Is the Microcontroller Software compatible with Windows Vista?
A: No, the Microcontroller Software is not yet supported on Windows Vista. Although some users have successfully used the software on a Vista platform, we have not yet fully tested the functionality, and therefore cannot advertise, sell, or support the software for Windows Vista. Windows 98, 2000, and XP are supported.