Would you like to use your PC in a data acquisition or control application?  The RS232 Digital I/O Commander ("Digio") allows you to set digital outputs and read digital inputs.  In addition, it allows you to specify an event to occur when a specific input or set of inputs changes state.  For instance, you can configure the software to send a pre-determined e-mail message to a recipient when input bits 0 to 3 equal the value "14".  Or, configure to play a wav sound when bit 5 is "high".  You can do this and much more.  With 6 different notification types, the possibilities are limit-less.
 

Digio uses RS-232 protocol for communicating with each attached BS2 device.  Up to 10 devices may be controlled and/or monitored.  (Your PC must have a sufficient number of comm. ports to accomodate the desired number of devices.  Additional serial ports can be added using add-on PC cards or USB-to-serial converters.)   A distinct advantage of using a serial interface is the ability to communicate with devices over long distances.  While RS-232 is used for relatively short cable runs, longer distances can be achieved when using RS-422 or RS-485.  In fact, distances up to several thousand feet can be obtained.  In order to achieve these distances, a protocol converter device is required at each end of the communications cable.  The converter translates between RS-232 and RS-422 / 485.  You can find more information (and a wide array of converter products at B&B Electronics.)
 

• Set/read up to 16 digital I/O signals per RS232 module 
• Configure any combination of inputs and outputs
• Read, write, or test SPI slave device(s) 
• Configure input(s) as single-bit or multiple-bit event triggers
• Virtual LED displays with configurable color definitions
• Use time-triggers to generate notification(s) at specific time(s) of the day or week
• Use signal-triggers to generate notification(s) when an input or set of inputs change state
• 6 different notifications including email, sound, pop-up msg, set output, write SPI slave, and run application 
• Attach events and perform test preview 
• Configure any combination of inputs and outputs 
• Expandable up to 160 I/O signals by adding more modules 
• Configure notification delays to limit the number of notifications over a period of time 
• Compatible with multiple email client programs including Outlook, Eudora, & Netscape 
• Configurable device polling rate
• Includes device firmware module source and object code

Screenshot

The RS232 Digital I/O Commander gives you full control of digital I/O for any application including robotics, industrial control, or hobby I/O.  The heart of the product is the Parallax BS2 BASIC Stamp.  This module provides the interface between your I/O and the PC computer.   A single BS2 module provides 16 I/O signals, configurable in any combination of inputs and outputs.  If you need more signals, simply add additional modules. 

Schematic

The diagram above indicates how to connect the BS2-IC to your PC using a serial connection.  It also shows power and reset circuitry.  The jumper JP1 is optional and is only needed if you will be using the serial port for programming new firmware into the BS2-IC.  For normal operation, the jumper should be removed. The reset circuit including switch SW1 is also optional and may be omitted if desired.  Refer to the BASIC Stamp User Manual for more information.

Alternatively, you can simplify hook-up by using a carrier board which provides connections for power and host serial communication.  They also include a built-in socket for inserting a BS2-IC.
 

Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) is a protocol allowing a master device to communicate with many slaves.  Now,  Digio gives you access to these devices with a few clicks of the mouse.  No microcontroller, firmware, or programming knowledge required. Great for rapid prototyping and proof-of-concept. (Requires Parallax BS2 module).

Do you need a networked solution for accessing your digital I/O?  Digio for Local Area Networks (LAN), uses a peer-to-peer configuration to allow device information and events to be shared across a network.  This powerful application allows you to monitor your system from remote locations.  Even receive text messages when event triggers occur.  (Requires network interface card/adapter and one or more USBmicro U4x1 USB interface(s).)

Easily connect and disconnect to your target system from remote location(s)

Receive system status for up to ten (10) BS2 devices in the target system

Supports multiple remote users

Receive text event messages from the target system

Blinking message alert indicator

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 Would you like to develop your own BS2 command and control application?  Check out the Digio BS2 API programmer's library.  It allows you to develop a PC host application, encapsulating  the details of serial communication protocol and I/O access.  Free demo application included (plus application source and BS2 firmware source). (Note: You must purchase the BS2 and (optional) Parallax development system separately.)