General Description
The RPC-30 is the fastest
single-board computer with a ROM based BASIC commercially available. CAMBASIC executes 3600 commands per second. When multitasking is fully employed,
throughput is equivalent to 5000 commands per second. The on-card language and operating system support all of the hardware features on the card. There is no need to write drivers. CAMBASIC performs date, time,
keypad, and display functions in one command-typically in under 1 mS.
An on-card opto rack supports G4 and G5 modules. An additional 24 modules are added via a digital port. Operator interfaces are provided via
an LCD display and keypad port.
Function Description
Digital I/O
Twenty-four digital I/O lines allow connection to switches, LED's, opto modules, and other TTL type devices. Eight high current outputs
drive small motors, solenoids, relays, and any other devices requiring less than 200 mA at 50V. Use CAMBASIC's "LINE" command to control an output or read an input through the STB-26 terminal board. You can
use the MPS-08, -16, or -24 to expand opto module capability. The "OPTO" command reads and controls modules on these racks.
Analog I/O modules can be read through the MPS-24 opto rack in the same way
as the on-card rack. CAMBASIC monitors the lines at assembly language speed and can generate an interrupt on line status change or a number of pulses. Maximum change rate for reliable detection is 200 Hz.
On-Card Opto Rack
You can control lamps, motors, starters, valves, etc., directly from the RPC-30 by using the on-card opto rack. The rack supports G4 I/O and G5 analog input modules. G4 modules switch AC/DC
voltages up to 3A and can sense the presence of a voltage.
G5 analog input modules (available from Grayhill) measure voltages, temperature, and current. CAMBASIC reads these modules and returns a number from 0 to
511. Voltage and current output modules are also available. CAMBASIC sends a 12 bit number to these devices. Use a MPS series opto rack to add output modules. Up to 24 additional G4 and G5 I/O modules
can be added using a MPS series opto rack.
Keypad and Display Ports
The keypad and display ports provide an operator interface. CAMBASIC supports character or LCD graphics displays using the
"DISPLAY" command. You can position characters anywhere on the display. The RPC-30 provides contrast adjustment for LCD character displays. Vacuum Florescent displays are also supported.
CAMBASIC
detects and stores keypad presses. A software interrupt can be generated on each key press. If you are not using a keypad or display, then an additional 24 I/O lines are available for general use.
Memory
The RAM and real time clock are automatically battery backed. You can store process variables and/or data in up to 512K of RAM. A 32K flash EPROM comes with the RPC-30. This is enough to hold about 800
lines of code.
Serial Ports
The RPC-30 provides two serial ports. The programming port is RS-232 only. You can use this port during run time for any purpose needed by your
application. The second port is either RS-232, -422, or -485. The RPC-30 has screw terminals for connecting RS-422/485. You select RS-485 through a jumperable termination network. LED's indicate serial port
activity.
CAMBASIC buffers input and output characters and controls the RS-485 port for transmission. Buffering ensures no missed characters. "PRINT" statements execute faster because the program
continues while characters are transmitted. CAMBASIC supports standard baud rates. CTS and RTS. control lines for RS-232 are provided. User jumpers set a card's address or ID on a 485 network. Putting the
RPC-30 on a 485 network is easy. CAMBASIC's "ON COM$" command causes an interrupt when a message is received.
Other Features
A battery backed, real time clock is standard. CAMBASIC's
"DATE$" and "TIME$" commands read and set the date and time.
A programmable EEPROM saves 128 bytes of numeric or string data. Use this EEPROM to store process variables when the risk of
battery backed RAM is not acceptable.
A watchdog timer can reset the card should a program "crash."
CAMBASIC Programming Language
CAMBASIC fully supports all hardware on the
RPC-30. Single commands support date, time, opto module I/O, keypad, and displays. CAMBASIC also acts as an operating system, allowing you to save and load programs from the 32K flash EPROM. Use your PC to debug
programs. On power-up, the RPC-30 downloads the program from flash and automatically executes it.
Technical Information
Processor:
Zilog Z180 running at 18 MHz.
Memory Capacity:
RAM: 32K, 128K, or 512K, battery backed
Flash EPROM: 32K
Digital I/O:
24 lines from an 82C55. Eight are buffered for 200 mA output. Additional lines
available from keypad, display, and user jumpers if not used.
Power Requirements:
+5V at 150 mA, no modules or devices attached.
Environmental:
Temperature: -30C to +85C
Mechanical:
Size: 7" x 4.5"
Mounting: 0.156" holes, 0.25" from edges
