Convert Word To Number

kenwtn

Can someone tell me how to convert a WORD to a number so it can be used in calculations? The problem I am having is when I use the sample code that comes with Parallax’s compass it defines angle as a word and when displayed in DEBUG you use DEBUG DEC angle, but if you use DEBUG angle you get junk. Can anyone help me out?

Mike Green

A word is already in the form needed for use in calculations. The DEC formatter converts the numeric value to a human readable form. When you use "DEBUG angle", the Stamp takes the numeric value and transmits the lower 8 bits as a byte to the debug window where it's displayed as a character. Since the value is an angle, it's probably not a useful character and displays as "junk".

kenwtn

Mike,

· Thanks, but how do get into say 90 degrees so I can test it. Like

IF angle = 90 THEN

·· do something

ENDIF

kenwtn

Ok a bit of a new problem I added

testA = angle + 5
DEBUG DEC testA

Most of the time I get a number that is plus 5 but at times I get a number like 994

Mike Green

I think your problem is that you're assuming that the angle is in degrees. Check the comments in the sample code.

On your second problem ... You didn't say where you got the original angle value or what it was. I think you'll find that the + 5 worked fine if you account for the original value.

kenwtn

Mike,

· Thanks as always you are a good source. If found my problem and got it fixed. I do have yet another question. After I calabrated the compass I get about a 18 degree swing in the readings is that normal?

Mike Green

I think so. The compass isn't that precise. Look at the datasheet for the actual compass chip.

kenwtn

I thought is was right and expected some drift. Thanks Mike