I-Style PIC Microcontroller Learning Kit

Auto Fish Feeder

PIC 16F627A microcontroller was used.
There are ROM 1kB , RAM 256 bytes.
Can choose frequency per day (1-6 times a day).
Can choose feeding level (1-10 level).
The food in syringe is enought for about 1-1.5 month.

USB PIC Programmer

The Serial PIC programmer shipped with i-Style book doesn't work with USB to Serial converter, although it passed initialization process.
So I decided to buy a new USB programmer, very expensive programmer, ET-PGM PIC USB V1, 1500 BHT.

Its speed is sooooo impressive, about 1-300 times faster than the old one!!!
It also has ICD2 (RJ-11 - telephone jack) port, so it can be used as software oscilloscope too.
This example circuit receives 38kHz infrared signal from TV remote control.

I think it's a little cheap now. ;-)

PIC VU Meter

I spent 2 days with this.
VU Meter using PIC Microcontroller.

No audio cable needed. Just plug in the power cord.
It can be placed anywhere. Very high sensitive microphone can receive even whisper.
(IC LM386 which are used in spy microphone circuit.)
PIC 16F628A microcontroller is used to do DSP (Digital Signal Processing) and AGC (Auto volume gain controller).
Currently it has 12 modes of running light.
If there is no sound for a while, it will switch to running light mode.
Then switch back to VU meter when sound was detected again.

Low Voltage Setting for PIC microcontroller

My Slave Flash didn't fire with camera's flash, don't know why.
So I developed a new flash controller using PIC microcontroller.

But the problem is,
PIC 16F628A will work on at least 4.3 volt of power supply.
2 cells of rechargable battery can only provide up to 2.4 volt.
After asking on Pantip's webboard, I got the answer from Professor.
I should tried setting Brown out reset=Disable, and it works!!!
It works even at 1.7 volt. :D

To set Brown out reset=Disable in Mikroelektronika mikroC,
Click on Project -> Edit Project, then place checkmark on BOREN_OFF.
If you don't use crystal higher than 4 MHz, you can remove checkmark on HS_OSC,
and place checkmark on XT_OSC to reduce power comsumption.

Microcontroller

A microcontroller (also microcontroller unit, MCU or µC) is a small computer on a single integrated circuit consisting of a relatively simple CPU combined with support functions such as a crystal oscillator, timers, watchdog timer, serial and analog I/O etc. Program memory in the form of NOR flash or OTP ROM is also often included on chip, as well as a typically small amount of RAM. Microcontrollers are designed for small or dedicated applications. Thus, in contrast to the microprocessors used in personal computers and other high-performance or general purpose applications, simplicity is emphasized. Some microcontrollers may operate at clock rate frequencies as low as 4 kHz, as this is adequate for many typical applications, enabling low power consumption (milliwatts or microwatts). They will generally have the ability to retain functionality while waiting for an event such as a button press or other interrupt; power consumption while sleeping (CPU clock and most peripherals off) may be just nanowatts, making many of them well suited for long lasting battery applications. Other microcontrollers may serve performance-critical roles, where they may need to act more like a digital signal processor (DSP), with higher clock speeds and power consumption.

Microcontrollers are used in automatically controlled products and devices, such as automobile engine control systems, remote controls, office machines, appliances, power tools, and toys. By reducing the size and cost compared to a design that uses a separate microprocessor, memory, and input/output devices, microcontrollers make it economical to digitally control even more devices and processes. Mixed signal microcontrollers are common, integrating analog components needed to control non-digital electronic systems.

The integrated circuit from an Intel 8742, an 8-bit microcontroller that includes a CPU running at 12 MHz, 128 bytes of RAM, 2048 bytes of EPROM, and I/O in the same chip

dsPIC 33F128MC706 NUE-PSK Digital Modem

PSK31 is one of the latest communications modes to capture the interest of hams worldwide. Its inherent ability to dig out low, near-inaudible signals is ideally suited for low power QRP enthusiasts. The PSK31 digital modem engine, however, requires intense DSP processing that is only commonly available in PC sound card. Thus the PSK operator desiring portability for field operation is locked into using a laptop computer as a controller, which results in a cumbersome station.

This project shows you design and construction of a standalone, battery-operated digital modem using a Microchip dsPIC microcontroller. The project includes a character display for transmit and receive text data, and a graphic display showing band spectrum and tuning indicator. Using GPL open source software, the modem can be homebrewed for less than $50 parts cost. When coupled with an SSB-capable transceiver or with a popular PSK-xx transceiver board from Small Wonder Labs, you too can have an effective portable PSK31 station.

© George Heron and Milton Cram

Download
Project documentation


tag : Digital Modem, PSK, DSP, MCU dsPIC33F128MC706, Communication

dsPIC 33F128MC706 NUE-PSK Digital Modem

PSK31 is one of the latest communications modes to capture the interest of hams worldwide. Its inherent ability to dig out low, near-inaudible signals is ideally suited for low power QRP enthusiasts. The PSK31 digital modem engine, however, requires intense DSP processing that is only commonly available in PC sound card. Thus the PSK operator desiring portability for field operation is locked into using a laptop computer as a controller, which results in a cumbersome station.

This project shows you design and construction of a standalone, battery-operated digital modem using a Microchip dsPIC microcontroller. The project includes a character display for transmit and receive text data, and a graphic display showing band spectrum and tuning indicator. Using GPL open source software, the modem can be homebrewed for less than $50 parts cost. When coupled with an SSB-capable transceiver or with a popular PSK-xx transceiver board from Small Wonder Labs, you too can have an effective portable PSK31 station.

© George Heron and Milton Cram

Download
Project documentation


tag : Digital Modem, PSK, DSP, MCU dsPIC33F128MC706, Communication

PIC Wireless Networks Wifi (Hotspot) Detector

This wireless detector project allows you to sense the presence and relative signal strength of wireless hotspots. It is "always on" and communicates the presence and signal strength of an in-range hotspot by way of sequences of pulses - like a heartbeat you can feel. The stronger and faster the "heartbeat", the stronger the wireless signal detected.

This project consists of a microcontroller PIC 12F629, some custom interface electronics, a small vibe motor, and an off-the-shelf Wi-Fi detector from D-Link. The microcontroller periodically "presses" the button on the detector to initiate a reading. The microcontroller "reads" the output from the detector indicator LEDs and uses this as the basis for pulsing out a signal on the vibe motor, which the wearer can feel.

tag : wireless networks, hotspot detector, Wi-Fi strength signal indicator src

PIC Wireless Networks Wifi (Hotspot) Detector

This wireless detector project allows you to sense the presence and relative signal strength of wireless hotspots. It is "always on" and communicates the presence and signal strength of an in-range hotspot by way of sequences of pulses - like a heartbeat you can feel. The stronger and faster the "heartbeat", the stronger the wireless signal detected.

This project consists of a microcontroller PIC 12F629, some custom interface electronics, a small vibe motor, and an off-the-shelf Wi-Fi detector from D-Link. The microcontroller periodically "presses" the button on the detector to initiate a reading. The microcontroller "reads" the output from the detector indicator LEDs and uses this as the basis for pulsing out a signal on the vibe motor, which the wearer can feel.

tag : wireless networks, hotspot detector, Wi-Fi strength signal indicator src

AVR Digital Clock with Roman Numerals

This digital clock project will display a Roman number instead Hindu-Arabic numeral system (1,2,3... ). The project uses micro ATTINY2313 as main processor and LCD to display the clock. When you turn on the device, it will shows a screen flashes "Tempera tempus" as reminder to adjust the time.


The adjustment is done via the small button.

• Press and hold the button for about 3 seconds -> hours appear on the screen -> release the button.
• Press the button again and hold -> the hours advance from "I" to "XXIV" -> release the button on the time right.
• Wait about 3 seconds -> minutes to appear on the screen.
• Press the button and hold -> the minutes advance from "nothing" to "LIX" -> release on just minutes.

Unfortunately, you have to readjust the time after your turn off the power, because there is no RTC in this  project.

Download schematic and source code here

AVR Digital Clock with Roman Numerals

This digital clock project will display a Roman number instead Hindu-Arabic numeral system (1,2,3... ). The project uses micro ATTINY2313 as main processor and LCD to display the clock. When you turn on the device, it will shows a screen flashes "Tempera tempus" as reminder to adjust the time.


The adjustment is done via the small button.

• Press and hold the button for about 3 seconds -> hours appear on the screen -> release the button.
• Press the button again and hold -> the hours advance from "I" to "XXIV" -> release the button on the time right.
• Wait about 3 seconds -> minutes to appear on the screen.
• Press the button and hold -> the minutes advance from "nothing" to "LIX" -> release on just minutes.

Unfortunately, you have to readjust the time after your turn off the power, because there is no RTC in this  project.

Download schematic and source code here

Remote Control using PIC16F84A Microcontroller

Remote Control using PIC16F84A Microcontroller

design controls up to 8 devices using a PIC microcontroller (PIC16F84A) connected to the phone line. The unique feature here is that unlike other telephone line based remote control, this device does not need the call to be answered at the remote end so the call will not be charged. This device depends on number of rings given on the telephone line to activate/deactivate devices.

1. Circuit diagram (designed by www.tronicszone.com)
2. Parts List
3. C source code complied using HT-Soft PIC C compiler
4. Compiler Hex code file to be directly programmed into the PIC

Instructions for the telephone operated remote switch:

A) While constructing the main circuit, make sure you use 18pin sockets (base) for the PIC16F84A. Do not solder the IC directly to the board since you may have to remove it for programming. Before you use the PIC on the main circuit, you have to first program it.

B) To program the PIC16F84A microcontroller:

There are lots of programmers on the Internet available to program PIC microncontrollers. Given below are links to some free PIC programmer hardware/software:

* http://www.covingtoninnovations.com/noppp/
* http://www.picallw.com/
* http://www.lpilsley.uklinux.net/software.htm

Note: Programm the chip with the hex file attached above and remember to set the fuse bits to use "EXTERNAL HS OSCILLATOR" mode!

C) Remove the PIC from the programmer socket and put it into the main circuit socket.

Set the DIP SWITCH as follows:

Switch3 Switch4 No. of initial rings to Switch ON(activate half of the board)

OFF OFF 5

ON OFF 4

OFF ON 3

ON ON 2

The number of initial rings to Switch OFF is one more than the number of rings to switch ON. For example, if you have set switch3 OFF & Switch4 ON then number of initial rings to activate half of the board to switch ON the relays is 3 and number of initial rings to activate half of the board to switch OFF the relays is 3+1 = 4

Switch1 Swtich2 Delay before making the second set of rings

OFF OFF 20sec

ON OFF 15sec

OFF ON 10sec

ON ON 5sec

This is the maximum delay the board can take after it is half activated. It will reset after this delay.

D) Now connect the circuit to the phone line and switch on its power supply.

E) You can test the board now. For example set the DIP switch to Switch1 ON, Switch2 OFF (15 sec delay) & switch3 ON, switch4 OFF (4 rings to activate half for switching ON). If you want to switch ON relay 1 (connected to RB0 of main circuit) then you have to do the following:

1. Give 4 rings and put down the receiver
2. Wait 5 seconds (this 5 seconds wait is required to prevent the board from detecting continous rings)
3. then within 15 seconds give 1 ring (1 ring for relay1, 2 rings for relay2 and so on) and put down the receiver
4. then within 5 sec the relay1 will switch ON

To switch off relay1:

1. Give 5 rings and put down the receiver
2. Wait 5 seconds (this 5 seconds wait is required to prevent the board from detecting continous rings)
3. then within 15 seconds give 1 ring (1 ring for relay1, 2 rings for relay2 and so on) and put down the receiver
4. then within 5 sec the relay1 will switch OFF

IMPORTANT: This circuit has been tested by me and found to work correctly. I cannot guarantee that the circuit will work at your end since it depends on error free construction and usage. Please do not contact for any support and requests, any such requests will not be entertained.

Simple PIC RF/Microwave Frequency Counter

This RF/Microwave Frequency Counter project built based on PIC 16F876A. The basic counter rate is extended to at least 180MHz using two 74Fxx devices. A divide-by-64 prescaler is used for higher frequencies up to at least 4.5GHz. All results of the measurement are shown on an inexpensive, 2x16 alphanumeric LCD module with large characters.

There are 3 inpust on this project a microwave (prescaled) input, an RF input and a TTL input. The microwave and RF inputs are AC coupled and terminated to a low impedance (around 50ohms). The TTL input is DC coupled and has a high input impedance. A progress-bar indicator is provided on the LCD for the gate timing.

Both the microwave and RF inputs have an additional feature : a simple signal-level detector driving yet another bar indicator on the LCD module. This is very useful to check for the correct input-signal level as well as an indicator for circuit tuning or absorption-wave-meter dip display (Lecher wires). This project designed by Matjaz Vidmar.

tag : RF counter, Microwave Frequency counter, PIC project source

Simple PIC RF/Microwave Frequency Counter

This RF/Microwave Frequency Counter project built based on PIC 16F876A. The basic counter rate is extended to at least 180MHz using two 74Fxx devices. A divide-by-64 prescaler is used for higher frequencies up to at least 4.5GHz. All results of the measurement are shown on an inexpensive, 2x16 alphanumeric LCD module with large characters.

There are 3 inpust on this project a microwave (prescaled) input, an RF input and a TTL input. The microwave and RF inputs are AC coupled and terminated to a low impedance (around 50ohms). The TTL input is DC coupled and has a high input impedance. A progress-bar indicator is provided on the LCD for the gate timing.

Both the microwave and RF inputs have an additional feature : a simple signal-level detector driving yet another bar indicator on the LCD module. This is very useful to check for the correct input-signal level as well as an indicator for circuit tuning or absorption-wave-meter dip display (Lecher wires). This project designed by Matjaz Vidmar.

tag : RF counter, Microwave Frequency counter, PIC project source

AVR Shark Tag Project

The goal of this project was to develop a shark tag working bench-top microcontroller platform. It is to be used for on-animal, in-situ data logging applications involving sharks and potentially other large pelagic.

The project used the Atmel Mega32 microcontroller to develop the core platform and functionality of a data archival tag. The project use temperature and pressure as sensor variable. The tasks ranged from logging sensor data to developing a simple user interface that requires only the addition of a laptop and a custom RS232 serial cable in the field.

It used an off-the-shelf SD (Secure Digital) card using flash memory for large capacity multi-read/write data storage. The microcontroller’s ADCs (analog to digital converters) were used to convert analog voltages produced by select sensors into digital format.

Tag: Animal Tag, shark, data logging, avr project src

AVR Shark Tag Project

The goal of this project was to develop a shark tag working bench-top microcontroller platform. It is to be used for on-animal, in-situ data logging applications involving sharks and potentially other large pelagic.

The project used the Atmel Mega32 microcontroller to develop the core platform and functionality of a data archival tag. The project use temperature and pressure as sensor variable. The tasks ranged from logging sensor data to developing a simple user interface that requires only the addition of a laptop and a custom RS232 serial cable in the field.

It used an off-the-shelf SD (Secure Digital) card using flash memory for large capacity multi-read/write data storage. The microcontroller’s ADCs (analog to digital converters) were used to convert analog voltages produced by select sensors into digital format.

Tag: Animal Tag, shark, data logging, avr project src

AVR Rotating Led Display

If you like Rotating LED Display project, check out Rotating Led Display project by Aki Korhonen. He made POV project using modified 8 cm fan and microcontroller AVR AT mega as main part. To control the led, the project use 74HC595D shift registers. Not only can display the text this Rotating Led display can also demonstrate drawing and playable Pong game. Check the video below,





tag: POV led display, rotating display, LED animation, AVR project (src)

AVR Rotating Led Display

If you like Rotating LED Display project, check out Rotating Led Display project by Aki Korhonen. He made POV project using modified 8 cm fan and microcontroller AVR AT mega as main part. To control the led, the project use 74HC595D shift registers. Not only can display the text this Rotating Led display can also demonstrate drawing and playable Pong game. Check the video below,





tag: POV led display, rotating display, LED animation, AVR project (src)

PIC Cactus LED Display

LEDactus is LED display project that resemble Cactus. It used PIC microcontroller 18F1320 as controller of the LED. LEDactus is immobile and attempts to survive by creating a pleasant display. It can produce more complex and mesmerizing displays. And in the latest generations, a sense of touch is added to allow the LEDactus to interact with passersby.

term : LED display, electronic cactus, PIC project (src)