Circuit Cellar Ink 124
November 2000

Table of Contents

6


Rob Walker

Task Manager

An International Blend

8


Rick Prescott

New Product News

  • HandCar data logging software for PalmOS from Allison Technology Corp.
  • MAX1737 Li-Ion charge controller from Maxim Integrated Products
  • Navigator MC2500 stepper motor controller from Performance Motion Devices, Inc.

Note: Corrected information for Allison Technology can be found in INK #126 Reader I/O.

11

Reader I/O

Letters to the Editor

12


Brian Branson
David Gonzales

Wireless Devices

Handline Power Efficiency and Debugging

Facing the increasing demand for integrated wireless solutions, debugging capability and power efficiency have become crucial. Branson and Gonzales address these issues as well as the idea of global standards that will make life easier.

20


Jeff Loeliger

Simplified TPU Programming

Have you ever thought about using a TPU but were discouraged by the difficulty? Have no fear, Jeff's here! Step by step, Jeff explains the TPU mysteries in detail. After reading this article, you'll be ready to tackle your own custom functions.

34


Duane Perkins

PDF, PDF HTML, HTML A PIC17C44-based Computer

According to the market, single-board computers and PIC microcontrollers don't mix. But it would be nice, wouldn't it? If you agree, tune in, because Duane found the right mixture so we can execute from external RAM.

Embedded PC

40


Rick Prescott

Nouveau PC

  • Little Dragon series of rackmount servers from ITOX, Inc.
  • PPC-102T slim-line panel PC from Advantech Technologies, Inc.

Embedded PC

42


Ingo Cyliax

Real-Time PC

Debugging an FPGA Module, Finding the Right Test Case

It's a good thing Ingo enjoys problem solving because seeking out a test condition this time is crucial, not to mention rummaging for old manuals and having a bit of patience along the way. It's all in the name of debugging.

Embedded PC

48


Fred Eady

Applied PCs

Rabbit Season, Part 3: Network Analysis

Rabbit season isn't over yet, as Fred continues with his series. This Rabbit's been through the briar patch and back, hiding along the way. But, in this next installment he eventually leads us into the clear blue sky.

56


Rob Walker

HTML Design2K Winners

62


Tom Napier

Applications of PN Sequences

This month, Tom takes us into the world of testing data transmission systems. He says his subject, ideal pseudorandom number sequences, proved "infinitely intriguing," so get ready for some very interesting information.

68


Mike Baptiste

Embedded Living

The "S" is for Speed, Breathe New Life into Your Z180 Designs

Whether your design needs a few software tweaks or more extensive change, upgrading to the 'S180 will put you in the fast lane. Mike shows us that it's a valuable addition to the Z180 family, one that makes HCS-II users smile.

74


Tom Cantrell

Silicon Update

eZ Does It

Years ago, Zilog went toe to toe with the heavyweights, taking its knocks, but still swingin'. Result: the single-chip successor to the esteemed Z80, proof that underdogs can rise in Rocky style.

78


Jeff Bachiochi

From the Bench

Megawatt Castles Made of Sand, Exploring the Solar Cell

Nature brings out the best in Jeff. It also brings out the best in energy production. Could the key ingredients for boundless amounts of energy be in the sandcastles of children?

83


David Tweed

HTML Test Your EQ

95

Advertiser's Index / December Preview

96


Steve Ciarcia

HTML, HTML Priority Interrupt

Upgrade Math

Note: Additional comments by Tom Napier in INK 127 Reader I/O.

Circuit Cellar Online


Peter Gibbs

PDF HTML IR Remote-Controlled Video Multiplexer

Costly technicians and intricate equipment doesn't have to coincide with multi-channel video monitoring. Peter shows us a system for visual monitoring that can be designed so you can make simple modifications yourself, rather than having to call in that pricey expert. Using off-the-shelf components, Peter succeeded at his task, while not obliterating the budget.

Circuit Cellar Online


Thomas Richter

PDF HTML A Better Battery Charger

Part 2: Hardware and Software Implementation

Now that you've been introduced to the AVR Battery Charger Reference Design, Tom is ready to delve into the hardware and software. The ATtiny15 has special features that make it ideal for battery-charging applications. Take a look at the charge methods he details this time around.

Download: richter-code.ZIP vbcode.ZIP

Circuit Cellar Online


Fred Eady

PDF HTML The Ethernet Delevopment Board

Part 2: The Software and Firmware Exposed

Fred picks up where he left off and takes us through embedded Ethernet, as he explores part two of his online series. Looking at the Ethernet development board from a firmware angle, he covers a lot of information, but still reminds us, just as he does in all his print columns, that "It's not complicated, it's embedded."

Download: vbcode.zip

Circuit Cellar Online


Ingo Cyliax

PDF HTML Learning the Ropes -- FPGA & CPLD

State Machines

In this installment, Ingo illustrates state machines using algorithmic state machine charts, implementing them through one-hot state encoding, the implementation of choice for FPGAs. Ingo takes us through the basic design methodology, using a simple design with two states. Here, the hardware has to depend on internal state, instead of just computing an output value.

Circuit Cellar Online


George Martin

PDF HTML Lessons from the Trenches

Scheduling Revisited

This month, George addresses the wide response he received for his past scheduling article. How can you schedule for something you've never done before? Well, keeping records is a good start. And, asking around to gather information isn't a bad idea. Even if it comes down to taking a shot in the dark, George gives us some tips about breaking the schedule down.

Circuit Cellar Online


Tom Cantrell

PDF HTML Silicon Update Online

Internet, or Else!

The Embedded Internet Conference has morphed from a workshop to a conference, occupying an even bigger space next year. Today's designers are anticipating 'Net connection for all manner of electronics, from elaborate A/V remotes to LED gadgets galore. Everyone's in hot pursuit, working under the premise that the answer will come later as to whether or not an Internet toaster is something people really want.

Circuit Cellar Online


Jeff Bachiochi

HTML Ask Us, The Engineer's Tech-Help Resource

Let us help keep your project on track or simplify your design decision. Put your tough technical questions in front of the ASK US team. In an engineering predicament? Read questions & answers from other engineers.

Circuit Cellar Online


David Tweed

What's Your Engineering Quotient?

Test Your EQ presents some basic engineering problems for you to test your engineering quotient.

Circuit Cellar Online


Bob Paddock

Resource Links

Each month Circuit Cellar's Resource Links provide helpful links and information on a variety of featured topics.

Circuit Cellar Online


Harv Weiner

New Product News

New Product submissions may be sent to Harv Weiner, 4 Park St., Vernon, CT 06066.
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