Shop OBEX P1 Docs P2 Docs Learn Events
Just Received "What's a Microcontroller?" .... — Parallax Forums

Just Received "What's a Microcontroller?" ....

LogJam00LogJam00 Posts: 20
edited 2007-03-17 13:52 in BASIC Stamp
Hello,

I just received my "What's a Microcontroller?" kit and completed Chapter 1.·· I have 2 questions:

- The BOE is connected via USB.· I go from my comp's USB port, to the supplied USB cable, thru the Parallax USB-to-Serial adapter, to the serial cable, and to the BOE.· I notice that from time to time when I hit "Run" to download and perform a program I created that I get the error message that the hardware isn't connected.· If I disconnect and reconnect the USB cable from the USB-to-Serial adapter, then the problem is fixed.· Should this happen?· If its connected, shouldn't it always be ready to transmit?·

- What is the best way to store my BOE?· The manual states that removing the BS2 from the BOE is unneccessary for storage (and risks damaging the BS2), but says nothing as to how the BOE should be stored.· Do I always have to put it back into the bag it was shipped in (I assume this is a static-free bag or something).· Or can I simply put in by itself flat in a plastic bin-like drawer where I store other electrical components?



Thanks for the help!· Great microcontroller tutorial so far - very easy to follow, understand, and perform!


Kind Regards,
Mike

Comments

  • Bill ChennaultBill Chennault Posts: 1,198
    edited 2007-03-17 03:40
    LogJam00--
    to the serial cable...
    Serial cable? Your USB2SER adapter should plug right into the DB9 connector on the BOE. There should be no serial cable between the USB2SER adapter and the BOE. If somehow you have one, try removing it and plugging the USB2SER adapter directly into the DB9 on the BOE and see if your problem disappears.

    When I finish a Stamp session, I simply unplug the power from the BOE (or PDB), unplug the transformer from the power strip and walk away. If I store a board, I put it back in the static sack in which I received it and call it good.

    If it turns out that you need pictures of the proper way to connect the BOE via the USB2SER to your computer, just let me know.

    --Bill


    ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
    You are what you write.
  • LogJam00LogJam00 Posts: 20
    edited 2007-03-17 05:22
    Boy, do I feel dumb!· I have no idea why it didn't dawn on me to go from the adapter to the BOE.··· Thanks for turning the lightbulb over my head on for me...



    Kind Regards,
    Mike
  • Bill ChennaultBill Chennault Posts: 1,198
    edited 2007-03-17 13:52
    LogJam00--

    I have received a LOT more support on this board than you, to date. I believe you will enjoy it here.

    --Bill

    ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔
    You are what you write.
Sign In or Register to comment.