4.2.3. Developing The Application Gui With An Embedded Controller As Host - Reach Technology SLCD+ Manual

As shipped, the serial port is set to 115,200 baud, 8 bit, 1 start, 1 stop, no parity. There are
two DB9 connectors on the "PowerCom 4" board. Connect the PC using a straight through
cable to the DB9 marked "MAIN" (P1). A USB-to-serial adapter cable can also be used
and plugged directly into this connector. Note: the Belkin USB-serial adapter has
software compatibility issues and is not recommended; Reach recommends either
Prolific or FTDI chip based adapters.
Once connected, use RealTerm (preferred), HyperTerminal, or similar terminal emulator to
send and receive commands from the kit. HyperTerminal has limitations that can cause
problems; specifically, some versions cannot send the "escape" character. We recommend
RealTerm (shareware – Google "realterm" to download).

4.2.3. Developing the application GUI with an embedded controller as host

To develop the actual application, determine whether the host will interface via 3.3V or 5V
CMOS levels or RS232 levels. Then connect the host accordingly to either J6 (232) or J5
(CMOS levels). Then connect the PC to either J6 or J4 whichever is not used. This way
either the host or the PC can drive the SLCD+. Typically the PC is used to experiment and
determine what command is needed for a graphical interface, and to download new
bitmaps and macros without having to disconnect the embedded system.
How this dual port connection works is this: the SLCD+ has a non-volatile memory which
remembers which port is the "main" control port. This is selected via the *com0main or
*com1main command. The other port is then the aux port. When the aux port receives
three <return> characters in a row, it switches to become the main port. This way, the PC
can take control of the SLCD+ communications channel and send commands or download
new bitmaps. Use the reset button to simulate a power-on event which restores the main
port as the default control port, or use the *prevCons command.
SLCD+ Controller Manual V1.1 8/14/2009 Page 18