Maker Pro
Maker Pro

Building prototype gadget - would appreciate advice :)

Seth

May 24, 2013
5
Joined
May 24, 2013
Messages
5
Hi all,

I'm new to this forum and microprocessors in general. I'm hoping to build a gadget which can transfer small amounts of information via infrared. However, I only know a little about electronics and have no clue about microprocessors and how they are different to normal processors.

I need a program to execute one program which simultaneously transmits and receives a few kB of data (read from flash memory) from another device of the same nature. So I'm asking what microprocessor and IR transmitter/receiver would be suitable? Bear in mind that I'm working on a budget so the cheapest and most low-power processor is best.

I have experience programming Arduinos but I have no idea how to program microprocessors. Is there a simulation so I can test without slowing down prototype production?

Thanks

Seth
 

(*steve*)

¡sǝpodᴉʇuɐ ǝɥʇ ɹɐǝɥd
Moderator
Jan 21, 2010
25,510
Joined
Jan 21, 2010
Messages
25,510
An Arduino is a microcontroller with a few extra bits.

If you've programmed one, you've programmed a microcontroller.

A microprocessor is technically the thing you find inside a PC. They typically need a lot more to make them useful (RAM, ROM, periperal support, etc.)

You probably want a microcontroller.
 

Seth

May 24, 2013
5
Joined
May 24, 2013
Messages
5
Ah, I knew that I wanted a microprocessor as part of an embedded system, but I'm not sure which specific microprocessor to get.
 

KrisBlueNZ

Sadly passed away in 2015
Nov 28, 2011
8,393
Joined
Nov 28, 2011
Messages
8,393
Broadly, microcontrollers are single-chip devices (at least nowadays they are), with all or most resources in a single device. This means no expandability, limited RAM and ROM, a variety of peripherals built-in, and usually a user interface consisting of buttons and a small display or indicators. Microprocessors are just the core of a larger system that typically includes external expandable RAM, modular peripherals of all kinds, generally much higher speed and power consumption, large storage devices, and usually a versatile user interface.

Your best approach is to figure out what you need in terms of high-level language support, power (speed and resources such as RAM and ROM), and peripherals. From your brief description of what you want to do, I would say that a microcontroller is most appropriate. If you give a more detailed description of your project we will be able to be more specific.
 
Last edited:

Seth

May 24, 2013
5
Joined
May 24, 2013
Messages
5
Thank you for your time and patience in helping me, I understand physics extremely well but am fairly new to electronic devices :)

The code in the device will allow data to be sent to a similar device via IR, and data received simultaneously. This data should be able to be modified by connecting the gadget to a computer via mini USB port. Also, whilst transmitting, some LED lights will act as an indicator (ready, transmitting, complete). A button on the outside of the gadget is requires to start the script and loop it for a few seconds.

Said data is very light and should not be more than a few KB, but it does need to be edited so the memory will have to be rewritable. I am planning to code an interface so data can be edited whilst connected to computer via mini USB, I think C should be sufficient but if you have any suggestions as to which language is easiest to write an IR protocol and interface for than I would be more than happy. Data received via IR also has to be written to flash memory and be erasable. I estimate total data at a couple of MB depending on the size of the interface.

As for power, you can tell that this process isn't very intensive. I would say that power saving is the better option and also I am taking price into consideration as I am planning to make a few of these.

Thank you very much :)
 

(*steve*)

¡sǝpodᴉʇuɐ ǝɥʇ ɹɐǝɥd
Moderator
Jan 21, 2010
25,510
Joined
Jan 21, 2010
Messages
25,510
If it's going to connect to a USB port, you may as well use the computer's processor to do all the hard work.

You could probably pull the guts out of a USB to parallel cable and then bit-bang it to flash LEDs connected to the data pins.
 

Seth

May 24, 2013
5
Joined
May 24, 2013
Messages
5
Yeah, but the device has to be portable so a microcontroller is still needed. Connection to computer is only to store received information and edit data.
 
Top