Hello, Erik. You wrote 5 May 2005 y., 15:11:05:
Erik> Hello, Erik> I have an idea to control a hydraulic system with software. Now I would Erik> like some suggestions for hardware and software. Sorry for my bad Erik> english, but I barely know what these things mean in swedish yet. I have Erik> never done anything like this before. ... skipped ... Erik> If you have done anything like this before, or know where I can find Erik> more information or know about some more specialized mailing list, I Erik> would appreciate your suggestions. Let me intoduce myself - I am an professional electronics engineer and regularly solve such a tasks at work. First, let me make some comments: You assume to make the Linux (or any other OS) to run the programm and make all control that you need. Your idea pros: + It seems very simple - just to write control loop that reads the sensors, and operates axtuators. Just a simple program in C/C++ Your idea cons: - Just imagine the situation when your PC hangs or just need reboot: control loop (sensors - actuators) can operate unexpectedly. Of cource, if reboot is intended, you can disconnect any driver/actuator manually, but that still does not help if PC behaves unexpectedly. I suppose you need embedded solution that can operate even independently without PC, but can be controlled and monitored from it if needed. Typcally embedded solution is a board with microcontroller that makes all control with typically the simple program inside. Board can have any interface you want: (simplest is COM - RS232, USB is also possible) and can be /monitored/controlled using PC via any custom protocol + custom programme on desktop. Also, it can be operated and controlled independently - via keyboard + any smaller/bigger LCD as a display. Usually I make all nesessary hardware by myself (schematics, PCB, assemly, embedded software, e.t.c.), as all modules that are sold on market are fairly expencive (if compared with actual cost of electronic parts that are installed on that hardware). If you want, I could help you with your task. (Write me to alxstrs <at> gmail.com) -- With best regards, Alexey -- [email protected] mailing list
