Abstract:
An embedded control system is provided, which includes a generically applicable computer module, display module, keyboard module, power supply module, and at least one input/output module. The display module is coupled to the computer module by a first communication bus, and the keyboard module is coupled to the computer module by a second communication bus. The power supply module is coupled to the computer module by a third communication bus, and the at least one input/output module is coupled to the power supply module and the third communication bus. The input/output module is adapted for coupling at least one additional input/output module to the third communication bus. The computer module automatically identifies the input/output modules on the third communication bus in response to applying power to the embedded control system. The system is adapted for different applications using software resident in the computer module.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
   This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/296,597 filed Jun. 7, 2001, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 

   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   1. Field of the Invention 
   This invention relates generally to embedded controllers with integrated operator display, control, and electromechanical input/output connections and more specifically relates to electronic modules that are plugged together with an operating system and device drivers to quickly develop and produce control systems. 
   2. Description of the Prior Art 
   In much of the equipment today, small microcomputers called embedded controllers are used to perform various functions, such as operator input/output display, control of functions, and input/output connections to electromechanical devices. Currently, many of these devices are custom designed for each application. However, this method is time consuming and expensive. Therefore, it would be advantageous to assemble and stock pre-made modules that plug together such as operator input/output display modules, computer control modules, and input/output modules. 
   In much of the equipment today, small microcomputers called embedded controllers are used to control equipment. The embedded controllers have other devices attached, such as displays, keyboards, memory, analog-to-digital converters, and other I/O devices. These embedded controllers and external devices are time consuming to program. Therefore, it would be advantageous to have a system that contains an operating system and drivers to run the external devices, which would greatly reduce the time to implement a control application. 
   In much of the equipment today, small microcomputers called embedded controllers are used to perform various functions. Currently, many of these devices are custom designed from scratch for each application. This method is time consuming and expensive. Therefore, it would be advantageous to have an application template that would provide many of the basic functions common to all applications. 
   In some equipment today, programmable logic controllers (PLC) are used to control equipment. Expensive operator interfaces and keyboards may be attached, which enable the operator to input commands and display data. Therefore, it would be advantageous to have the operator interface and keyboard along with the drivers incorporated into the main embedded control. 
   In some equipment today, single board computers are used to control equipment. These computers do not contain all the components to control the equipment, such as displays, keyboards, or high-level electromechanical drivers. Therefore, it would be advantageous to have the operator interface, keyboard, along with the device drivers and electromechanical drivers, included in the embedded control system. 
   In some equipment today, personal computers are used to control equipment. These computers contain all the necessary hardware to implement a control. They have plug-in cards and different display options. These systems do not handle real-time applications very well and are expensive and require extensive programming. Therefore, it would be advantageous to have a low-cost embedded system that includes plug in-modules. 
   In some equipment today, timers and temperature and relay closure sequences are formed into recipes. These recipes are sometimes broken down into steps. Often, many steps make-up a recipe. These steps are usually set at the keyboard of the equipment. Therefore, it would be advantageous if the modular embedded control system included an infrared transceiver that allows recipe data to be transmitted to and received from standard handheld computers. This would allow a user to program the recipe of the equipment on the handheld computer off-site then, when on-site, send the data to the equipment via an infrared port or serial port. The user would then go to multiple sites and send the recipe data to other devices, which would save a considerable amount of time. 
   In personal computers today, bit maps are used to represent standard pictures. These bit maps are drawings that are formed by small square blocks. There are many standard bit map programs that are currently available. These bit map programs may be used to draw letters of the alphabet that are bolder and easier to read on a screen. Therefore, it would be advantageous to be able to draw characters of the alphabet in such a manner as to make them bold and/or different sizes and to have a program that can convert the bit map bold letters into an array that an embedded system can read and display. 
   OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   It is an object of the present invention to provide an embedded modular control system that is designed into modules. 
   It is another object of the present invention to provide a computer board module that includes computer and communication ports to connect additional modules. 
   It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a real-time operating system and device drivers in the form of software resident on the computer board. 
   It is a further object of the present invention to provide an application template that contains all the basic functions required to start an application. 
   It is an object of the present invention to provide the ability to connect standard graphics modules of various sizes to the system. 
   It is another object of the present invention to provide a method of converting and displaying bit maps of fonts, pictures, and icons to the graphics modules. 
   It is yet another object of the present invention to provide programming of the computer with flash memory via a serial port or infrared port. 
   It is a farther object of the present invention to provide for saving and recalling of recipe data via a serial port or infrared port with a handheld computer and saving the data in non-volatile memory. 
   It is an object of the present invention to provide a mirror to reflect the infrared light to and from the computer board. 
   It is another object of the present invention to provide automatic detection of types of modules and module configurations on the bus. 
   It is yet another object of the present invention to provide input/output modules that connect together in a bus fashion. 
   It is a further object of the present invention to provide a modular embedded control system that allows an equipment designer to quickly prototype and produce a control system by plugging in pre-made control modules that are required for a particular application. The system is preferably programmed using the provided operating system, drivers, and template application. This significantly decreases technical manpower requirements, time-to-market, and cost due to quick development time, and increases control reliability, which is required to implement a control in a piece of equipment. 
   In accordance with the present invention, a modular embedded control system is provided that includes a computer and graphics display module, which contains, as the main components, a central microcomputer, graphics display module, and an external inter-integrated circuit (I 2 C) bus. The microcomputer preferably includes an operating system and a software driver in flash memory of the microcomputer. Several sizes of industry standard graphics modules may be selected for the application and plugged into the computer module. A keyboard module is preferably plugged into a keyboard connector. The complete system preferably includes the computer, display and keyboard assembly. 
   The computer module preferably includes an infrared port for transferring data from the computer module to external handheld computers. The infrared transceiver is preferably mounted on the computer printed circuit board and a mirror reflects the infrared light out the front panel. This allows the device to be mounted by a machine on the circuit board, which saves the expense of alternative mounting methods. 
   The modular embedded control system preferably includes an infrared transceiver that allows recipe data to be transmitted and received from standard handheld computers. This allows a user to program the recipe of the equipment on the handheld computer off-site then, when on site, send the data to the equipment via the infrared port. The user may then go to multiple sites and send the recipe data to the other devices. This saves time in programming steps into each piece of the equipment since it is preferably done once and transmitted to the other equipment via the infrared port. 
   The modular embedded control system preferably includes an application template, which includes the operating system drivers and main control loops necessary to start an application to control a piece of equipment. 
   The modular embedded control system preferably includes a method for drawing and converting bit mapped fonts from standard binary bmp format to ANSI C statements, and a software driver that displays the fonts on a graphics screen. 
   The modular embedded control system preferably includes a power supply module, to which alternating current (ac) power is connected. The power supply module also preferably includes connectors for coupling to the computer display module. Other modules may also be attached to the power supply board creating a communication and power supply bus. 
   The modular embedded control system preferably includes a digital I/O module that preferably includes a microcontroller that reads instructions from the main control via the I 2 C bus. The system further contains an input connector that plugs into the power supply bus connector or other modules and an output bus connector, to which additional modules may be connected. The output relays preferably drive 220VAC 8 amp loads and the optocouplers read external equipment switches. The digital I/O module is preferably connected to equipment to perform the required functions. 
   The modular embedded control system preferably includes a temperature sensor module that preferably includes a microcontroller that reads the temperatures from an analog-to-digital converter and, using instructions from the main control via the I 2 C bus, transmits the data to the computer module. The system further includes an input connector that plugs into the power supply bus connector or other modules and an output bus connector, to which additional modules may be connected. 
   The modular embedded control system preferably includes a motor control board that preferably includes a microcontroller that reads the speed of a motor. Instructions from the computer module preferably set the motor speed via the I 2 C bus. Circuitry on the board directly drives the motor using pulse width modulation. The system further contains an input connector that plugs into the power supply bus connector or other modules and an output bus connector, to which additional modules may be connected. 
   The modular embedded control system preferably includes a pressure sensor board that preferably includes a microcontroller that reads pressures using an amplifier and an analog-to-digital converter. The data is preferably transmitted using instructions from the computer module via the I 2 C bus to the main display and control module. The system further includes an input connector that plugs into the power supply bus connector or other modules and an output bus connector, to which additional modules may be connected. 
   The modular embedded control system preferably includes a custom keyboard that preferably includes a microcontroller that reads the keys and may drive light emitting diode (LED) displays using instructions from the computer module via the I 2 C bus. 
   These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments thereof, which is to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       FIG. 1  is a top-level block diagram for a modular embedded control system formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIG. 2  is a computer module block diagram formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIGS. 3A-3L  are schematic diagrams of a computer module circuit board formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIG. 4  is a keyboard overlay layout formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIG. 5  is a keyboard module circuit board schematic formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIGS. 6A and 6B  are schematic diagrams of a power supply circuit board formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIGS. 7A-7D  are schematic diagrams of a digital I/O module circuit board formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIGS. 8A-8F  are schematic diagrams of a temperature sensor module circuit board formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIGS. 9A-9D  are schematic diagrams of a pressure sensor module circuit board formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIGS. 10A-10E  are schematic diagrams of a motor control module circuit board formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIGS. 11A-11D  are schematic diagrams of an RS-232 expansion module circuit board formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIG. 12  is a flow chart for auto-addressing formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIG. 13  is a sample of a font conversion bit map formed in accordance with the present invention. 
       FIG. 14  is a hexadecimal output of the font conversion program formed in accordance with the present invention. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
   Top Level Description of Modular Embedded Control System 
     FIG. 1  shows a top-level block diagram of a modular embedded control system formed in accordance with the present invention for use in controlling, for instance, an oven for preparing food. The apparatus includes electronic modules that connect together to form a control system. A computer module  10  is the heart of the system. A graphics module  12  is preferably an industry standard device that is connected to the computer module  10  via an 8-bit bus with power. A standard or custom keyboard module  14  is preferably connected to the computer module  10  via an I 2 C bus. External infrared and serial ports  16  are preferably used for communication to external computers. External I/O modules  20 ,  22 ,  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30  are preferably connected via a cable that includes an I 2 C bus and a +14 volt power supply signal. 
   External modules  20 ,  22 ,  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30  preferably include printed circuit boards that connect together and form a power supply and communication bus. Any module may be connected to the power supply and any number of modules may be further connected to each other. 
   Power supply module  20  preferably converts 10VAC into 14VDC. One RJ45 connector connects the computer to the main computer module. A multi-pin connector starts the external I/O power supply bus. 
   The digital I/O module  22  preferably includes eight relays and eight optocouplers. This module allows high voltage and high current electromechanical devices to be connected. The optocouplers allow sensor switches to be connected to the system. 
   The temperature sensor module  24  preferably measures external temperatures using a resistive thermal device (RTD). These temperatures are transmitted to the computer board. 
   The pressure module  26  preferably measures pressures generated from gas or fluid. The pressures are read by the main computer module  10  and may be processed and displayed on the graphics module. The pressures may be used to measure liquid levels in a tank. 
   The motor module  28  preferably drives 12-24 VDC motors directly. An optical encoder may be mounted on the shaft of the motor and used to directly control the speed of the motor. The encoder data is sent to the computer module  10 , processed, and then motor speed data is transmitted to the motor module  28  using the I 2 C bus. 
   Additional modules my be designed and attached in the future such as Internet connections, ethernet connections, or high-speed digital input connections. 
   Top Level Summary of Operation 
   The computer module  10  preferably includes software to drive the entire system. The graphics display  12  and keyboard  14  permit the operator to program and set parameters, which allow the external equipment to perform its functions. The I/O modules  20 - 30  are selected and plugged in as necessary to perform equipment functions. The computer module  10  communicates with I/O modules  20 - 30  through the I 2 C bus. The specific operation of the system depends on the application software that is created for each piece of equipment. 
   Detailed Description of Computer Module Block Diagram 
     FIG. 2  shows a block diagram for the computer module  10  formed in accordance with the present invention. The computer module  10  shown in  FIG. 1  is the heart of the system. A single-chip microcontroller  31  included in the computer module  10  preferably includes flash memory in which programs are stored. It is to be understood that the term “microcontroller” includes a microprocessor, microcomputer, processor, application integrated circuit (ASIC), and the like as alternatives. 
   The computer module  10  shown in  FIG. 1  preferably includes the 8-bit bus for driving the standard graphics module  12 .  FIG. 2  shows an LCD display connection with a negative voltage supply. 
   The computer module  10  preferably includes memory  34 , a temperature sensor module  36 , and a real-time clock  38 . These devices are preferably addressed using an I 2 C bus and software drivers included in the processor  31 . 
   The computer module  10  preferably also includes electrically erasable program memory (EEPROM)  34  for storing user data. Typically, temperature set points, timers, and relays are sequenced into steps to perform a function. A group of steps to perform these functions is called a recipe. The recipe step data is preferably stored in the EEPROM. This data is transmitted from the infrared (IR) port in response to a user command on a handheld device, such as a Palm Pilot™. This data is then edited and transmitted back to the equipment. The user may also use this data to quickly program multiple pieces of the same equipment. 
   The temperate sensor  36  preferably senses over temperature conditions of the computer module  10 . 
   The real-time clock  38  is used to display time and may be used in an application where events may be synchronized to a real-time clock, such as automatically turning the power on and off at specific times of the day. The real-time clock preferably continues to run when main power is removed. This can be used to determine power failures, recover, and continue operation after power failures. 
   The computer module  10  preferably includes a sounder  48  that is used to audibly alert the user to specific events. For instance, a very short beep occurs when any key is pressed, fast continuous beeps alert the user an error has occurred. Other sequences of beeps may be programmed to alert the user. 
   The computer module  10  preferably includes a port switch  46 . The processor contains a built-in universal asynchronous receiver transmitter (UART). The UART preferably converts data into a standard 10-bit serial stream. The port switch  46  selects between RS-232 wired and infrared wireless ports. 
   The computer module  10  preferably includes an RS-232 line driver  40  and flash programming sensor circuit  42 . This port is used to program the flash memory of the processor and receive and transmit application data. An external program sends a serial string to the processor. Application code running in the processor then detects the string and the processor switches to programming mode. An external program sends the program data to the processor, which stores it in the flash memory. If there is no application code running in the processor, the processor may be forced into programming mode by grounding the external sensor line. 
   The computer module  10  preferably includes an infrared port  44 . The processor selects the infrared port  44  with port switch  46  and then transmits serial data from the processor&#39;s serial port. The data is then sent to the infrared port  44 . 
   An external device, such as a handheld computer, receives data and may transmit modulated infrared data. An infrared detector receives the modulated light and sends the data to an encoder/decoder device. The Endec converts the modulated pulses of light to serial digital data. The data is sent to the port switch  46 , and when selected, passed through to the processor. 
   The computer module  10  preferably includes a +5 volt power supply and I 2 C bus  1   50  and I 2 C bus  2   52 . These two bus connections are used to connect the I/O modules and keyboard module to the processor. I 2 C is an industry standard method of transmitting and receiving high-speed serial data. 
   Detailed Description of Computer Module Circuit Board Schematic 
     FIGS. 3A-3L  show a preferred computer module circuit board schematic formed in accordance with the present invention. A single-chip microcomputer 89C51 U 1  which is available from Intel Corporation, Santa Clara, Calif. 95052, is shown with a crystal clock including oscillator Y 1  and capacitors C 10 , C 11 , and a reset circuit, including a reset circuit DS1833-10 D 1  and a capacitor C 24 . The single-chip microcomputer U 1  preferably contains 64 k of flash program memory, 1 k of ram, and a UART. This device may be substituted for a device with larger memory as such devices become available. 
   The LCD circuitry  12  preferably includes a connector J 7  that allows two types of standard graphics modules to plug in directly with or without cabling. Potentiometer R 1  is used for contrast adjustment. Regulators VR 3  and VR 2  along with the connected capacitors C 19 , C 20 , C 28  generate negative 8 volts required for the LCD display LCO  1 . The EPROM 24LC16 U 3  and U 4  are preferably used to store recipe data. 
   A temperature sensor LM75 U 8  preferably monitors and records the peak temperature of the computer module  10 . If the temperature reaches an abnormally high temperature, a message is preferably displayed on the LCD graphics display. 
   Power supply circuitry  54  preferably includes a regulator VR 1 , a diode D 1 , an inductor L 1 , and a capacitor C 15 , which make up the +5 volt switching regulator. I 2 C bus  1   50  and bus  2   52  are shown in  FIG. 3   c  and bus  50  includes +14 volt unregulated supply voltage for the computer display keyboard module. An RJ45 connector is used to connect the power supply and I 2 C bus from the I/O modules and the computer module. Schmitt triggers U 7 , resistors R 5 , R 6 , R 7 , R 8 , and diodes D 3 -D 6  are provided for noise isolation and line driving. 
   The RS-232 circuitry includes an RS-232 transceiver MAX 232 U 2 , capacitors C 6 , C 7 , C 8 , C 9 , C 10 , and non-inverting buffers U 1 , which buffer the flash program sensor signal from the processor. 
   The computer module schematic shown in  FIG. 3B  includes infrared port circuitry  44 . Level shifters U 11  lower the voltage to 3.5V for the infrared circuitry  44 . The data is then modulated by an encoder decoder chip U 10 , oscillator Y 3 , capacitors C 12 , C 13 , and resistor R 10 . The modulated data is then sent to the infrared emitter-detector IR 1 . 
   The real-time clock circuitry U 5  includes a real-time clock device PCF8583 U 5 , an oscillator Y 2 , capacitors C 16 , C 17 , C 18 , and a diode D 2 . The sounder circuit  48  preferably includes a transistor Q 2 , a diode D 15 , and a speaker SP 1 . 
   The port switch circuitry  46  preferably includes nand gates U 9  A-D. Table 1 is a preferred parts list for the computer module  10 , as described above with respect to  FIGS. 3A-3L . 
   
     
       
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
           
         
             
               TABLE 1 
             
           
           
             
                 
             
             
               Parts List for the Computer Module 
             
           
        
         
             
               Qnty 
               Part # 
               Title 
               Description 
               Reference 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
         
             
               1 
               820100 
               LCD Assy. 
               LCD Graphic Module, 128x64 LED Back Light 
               LCD1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               (United Radiant Tech.) 
             
             
               1 
               640000 
               Sounder 
               Sounder, Audio X-Ducer 6 V(4-12 v) 
               SP1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               (Audio X-Ducer) 
             
             
               1 
               634-1-ST-20 
               Header, .100 
               Header, 20 Pos Straight .100 (Crane) 
               J7 (SOLDER TO LCD 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               DISPLAY FIRST) 
             
             
               1 
               634-1-RA-05 
               Header .100 
               Header 5 Pos Right Angle .100 (Crane) 
               J6 
             
             
               1 
               634-1-RA-02 
               Header, .100 
               Header, 2 Pos Right Angle .100 (Crane) 
               J2 
             
             
               1 
               633-1-8X8-T 
               Modular Jack 
               Modular Jack, Top Entry, 8x8 (Amp) 
               J8 
             
             
               1 
               633-1-6X6-T 
               Connector 
               Phone Jack, 6x6 Top Entry Without Stops (Amp) 
               J1 
             
             
               1 
               561000 
               Crystal 
               Crystal, Surface Mount, 11.0592 MHZ, Quartz 
               Y1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               (Citizen) 
             
             
               1 
               551-2N7002 
               Transistor 
               Transistor, Surface Mount, FET 2N7002 
               Q2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               (Philips Semiconductor) 
             
             
               1 
               540-RS-MAX232 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC RS-232 Transmitter and Receiver, 
               U2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               MAX232CSE (SGS Thompson) 
             
             
               1 
               540-MM74HC4050 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Hex Logic Level DownConverter 
               U11 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               MM74HC4050M (Philips Semiconductor) 
             
             
               1 
               540-MC-89C51RD2 
               IC 
               IC Microcontroller 64K Flash Eprom 89C51RD2, 
               U1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               SMD (Philips Semiconductor) 
             
             
               1 
               540-DTS-LM75 
               IC 
               IC, Surface Mount, Digital Temp. Sensor, SMD 
               U8 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               (National) 
             
             
               1 
               540-DS1833 
               IC 
               IC, Microprocessor Reset, SOT-23, DS1833Z-10 
               Q1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               (Dallas) 
             
             
               1 
               540-82B715 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               I square C, Bus Expander 82B715TD 
               U7 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               (Philips Semiconductor) 
             
             
               1 
               540-74HC00 
               IC 
               IC, Surface Mount 2 Input, Nand Gate, SMD 
               U9 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               (Fairchild) 
             
             
               1 
               540-246C64 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, SERIAL EEPROM 8Kx8 
               U4 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               (Micro Chip) 
             
             
               1 
               531001 
               Voltage Regulator 
               Voltage Regulator MIC4680-5.0BM, SMD 
               VR1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               (Micrel) 
             
             
               1 
               513002 
               Diode 
               Diode, 1N5819MCT, Surface Mount 
               D1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               (Diodes Inc.) 
             
             
               9 
               513001 
               Diode 
               Diode, 1N4148, Surface Mount (Micro-Semi) 
               D3, D4, D5, D6, D11, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               D12, D13, D14, D15 
             
             
               1 
               511000 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, LED, Red (Lite-On) 
               LD1 
             
             
               1 
               400300 
               PCB, InTeMod Processor 
               PCB, InTeMod Processor Board (National Tech) 
             
             
                 
                 
               Board 
             
             
               1 
               315-3-220UF-35V 
               Surface Mount Electrolytic 
               Cap. 220 uF, 35 V, +/−20%, Surface Mount 
               C14 
             
             
                 
                 
               Cap. 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               1 
               314-3-220UF-10V 
               Surface Mount Tantalum 
               Cap 220 uF, 10 V, +/−20%, Low ESR (Aux) 
               C15 
             
             
                 
                 
               Electrolytic Chip Cap. 
             
             
               2 
               314-2-10UF-16V 
               Surface Mount Tantalum 
               Cap 10 uF, 16 V, +/−20% (Panasonic) 
               C22, C23, 
             
             
                 
                 
               Electrolytic Chip Cap. 
             
             
               2 
               313-2-27PF-50V 
               Surface Mount Multilayer 
               Cap 27 pF, 50 V, +/−5% (Panasonic) 
               C10, C11 
             
             
                 
                 
               Ceramic Chip Cap. 
             
             
               13 
               313-0-.1UF-50V 
               Surface Mount Multilayer 
               Cap .1 uF, 50 V, +/−10% (Panasonic) 
               C1, C2, C4, C5, C6, 
             
             
                 
                 
               Ceramic Chip Cap. 
                 
               C7, C8, C9, C24, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               C29, C30, C33, C34 
             
             
               1 
               191000 
               Inductor 
               68 uH Coil, Surface Mount, UP2B-680 Tape and 
               L1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Reel (Coiltronics) 
             
             
               1 
               151472 
               SIP Resistor 
               SIP, 9 Res 4.7K 10 Pin Bussed (Bourns) 
               RN1 
             
             
               1 
               144103 
               Potentiometer 
               Pot, 10K 3 mm, Top Adjust, Surface Mount 
               R1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               (Bourns) 
             
             
               8 
               08-3-004.7K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 4.7K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206 5000 mag) 
               R4, R9, R11, R13, 
             
             
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
               R16, R17 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               R18, R19(DO 
             
             
               2 
               08-3-002.7K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 2.7K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206) (Panasonic) 
               R7, R8 
             
             
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
             
             
               4 
               08-0-200 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 200, ⅛ W, 5%, 1206 (Panasonic) 
               R5, R6, R15, R14 
             
             
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
             
             
               1 
               07-3-002.7K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 2.7K, ⅛ W, 1% (1206) (Panasonic) 
               R9 
             
             
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
             
             
               4 
               011408 
               Hardware 
               Nylon Spacer #4 × .250 × .25 OD 
               LCD1 
             
             
               4 
               002201 
               Hardware 
               Nut, #2-56 SS 
               LCD1 
             
             
               4 
               001216 
               Hardware 
               Screw, 2-56x½ Pan Head SS Screw 
               LCD1 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
       
     
   
   Table 2 is a preferred net list for the computer module  10 . The net list provides a listing of connectivity between components located on the circuit board according to the reference designations corresponding to the components and pin numbers of the components shown in  FIGS. 3A-3L . 
                         TABLE 2               Net List for Computer Module       Net list for PCB 400300                                Net WR, U1-18, J7-5, J5-5;       Net D7, U1-36, RN1-2, J7-17, J5-18;       Net D6, U1-37, RN1-3, J7-16, J5-17;       Net D5, U1-38, RN1-4, J7-15, J5-16;       Net D4, U1-39, RN1-5, J7-14, J5-15;       Net D3, U1-40, RN1-6, J7-13, J5-14;       Net D2, U1-41, RN1-7, J7-12, J5-13;       Net D1, U1-42, RN1-8, J7-11, J5-12;       Net GND, C14-2, VR1-1, VR1-5, VR1-6, VR1-7, VR1-8, U11-14, C34-B, U11-11,       R3-A, C26-2, IR1-4, IR1-5, IR1-9, C12-B, U10-7, U10-12, U10-8, U10-6, U10-1,       U10-13, C10-B, C11-B, C13-B, C24-B, C29-B, U1-22, C30-B, U8-5, U8-6, U8-7,       Q1-1, Q1-4, D1-A, C15-2, LD1-1, C27-B, C25-2, J1-6, J1-2, C7-1, U2-10, U2-8, U2-15,       C31-B, C2-B, Q2-1, C1-B, C23-2, C22-2, C5-B, C3-B, J7-2, C20-1, VR3-3, J7-19,       C33-B, C4-B, J5-2, C19-2, C18-B, C17-2, C28-B, VR2-4, VR2-2, D12-2, D14-2,       J6-3, J6-5, D6-2, D4-2, U3-1, U3-3, U3-7, U5-3, U5-4, U4-2, U4-3, U4-7, J8-3, J8-6,       J2-2, U11-8, U3-4, U9-7, U4-4, U7-4, U8-4, U12-4;       Net NET00012, R5-B, U7-2;       Net NET00058, U9-3, U9-4;       Net NET00092, VR1-3, D1-K, L1-1;       Net NET00041, C18-A, C16-A, C17-1, D2-2, U5-8;       Net VCC, VR1-4, D8-2, C26-1, IR1-8, C24-A, C29-A, U1-35, U1-44, C30-A, Q1-3,       C15-1, L1-2, R9-B, R4-B, U2-16, C6-2, C2-A, D15-1, SP1-1, C1-A, C23-1, RN1-1,       C22-1, C5-A, R18-B, R19-B, C3-A, J7-3, J7-20, VR3-8, R1-1, C33-A, C4-A, J5-3,       C19-1, D2-1, JP2-2, JP2-1, D13-1, D11-1, R16-B, R17-B, J6-2, R8-B, R7-B, D3-1,       D5-1, U3-2, U4-1, U3-8, U9-14, U4-8, U7-8, U8-8, U12-8,       Net D0, U1-43, RN1-9, J7-10, J5-11;       Net NET00028, VR3-4, C21-2;       Net NET00029, VR3-2, C21-1;       Net CE, U1-24, J7-7, J5-7;       Net CD/DA, U1-25, J7-8, J5-8;       Net L_RESET, U1-26, J7-9, J5-10;       Net FNT_SEL, U1-28, J7-18, J5-19;       Net RD, U1-19, J7-6, J5-6;       Net NET00081, R9-A, LD1-2;       Net NET00004, D15-2, Q2-3, SP1-2;       Net NET00082, U1-6, T4-1;       Net NET00018, U1-10, Q1-2;       Net NET00021, U1-30, U8-2, R18-A, U3-6, U5-6, U4-6;       Net NET00022, U1-31, U8-1, R19-A, U3-5, U5-5, U4-5;       Net NET00019, C11-A, U1-20, Y1-2;       Net NET00020, C10-A, U1-21, Y1-1;       Net NET00043, C16-B, U5-1, Y2-2;       Net NET00017, U5-2, Y2-1;       Net NET00083, U1-7, T5-1;       Net NET00008, U1-27, Q2-2;       Net NET00000, U1-33, T6-1;       Net NET00032, R21-B, Y3-1, C12-A, U10-15;       Net Net00075, J1-4, U2-14;       Net NET00001, U1-11, U9-6,       Net NET00060, U1-4, R15-B, U12-2, U12-3;       Net NET00006, U10-3, U9-12;       Net NET00016, R6-B, U7-7;       Net NET00009, C20-2, J7-1, VR3-5, JP1-2, JP1-3, R1-3;       Net NET00062, R14-A, D14-1, D13-2, R16-A, J6-4;       Net NET00077, R15-A, D12-1, D11-2, R17-A, J6-1;       Net NET00040, U7-3, U1-2;       Net NET00044, U7-6, U1-3;       Net NET00002, D8-1, D7-2;       Net NET00053, U1-13, U2-11, U11-3;       Net WIRED/ 2 IR, U1-29, U9-1, U9-9, U9-10;       Net +14 V, C14-1, VR1-2, C28-A, VR2-3, J8-4, J8-5, J2-1;       Net NET00057, U11-6, U10-5;       Net NET00138, U2-1, C8-1;       Net NET00054, U10-2, U11-2;       Net NET00013, U1-17, T3-1;       Net −VEE, J7-4, R1-2, J5-4;       Net NET00034, R21-A, Y3-2, U10-14, C13-A;       Net NET00143, U2-2, C6-1;       Net NET00069, U2-5, C9-2;       Net NET00073, C7-2, U2-6;       Net NET00074, U2-3, C8-2;       Net NET00076, U2-4, C9-1;       Net NET00052, J1-3, U2-13;       Net NET00048, IR1-6, U10-10;       Net NET00080, U1-5, R14-B, U12-7, U12-6;       Net NET00055, U1-8, U11-5;       Net NET00005, U10-4, U11-4;       Net NET00056, U11-7, U1-9;       Net NET00015, U1-16, T2-1;       Net NET00007, IR1-7, U10-11;       Net NET00059, U9-11, U9-5;       Net NET00064, U9-13, U9-8;       Net +3.5, C34-A, R3-B, D7-1, IR1-3, U10-16, R2-B, C25-1, C31-A, U11-1;       Net EARTH, JP1-1, J5-1;       Net Net00023, U1-15, T1-1;       Net NET00014, U10-9, C27-A, R2-A;       Net NET00031, R6-A, D6-1, R7-A, D5-2, J8-2;       Net NET00049, R5-A, D4-1, R8-A, D3-2, J8-8;       Net RS-232_SENSE, U1-14, U2-12, U9-2;       Net NET00066, JP2-3, VR2-1;       Net NET00067, J1-5, R4-A, U11-9;       Net  2 PROGRAM, U1-32, U11-10.                    
Detailed Description of LCD Graphics Display Module
 
   The LCD graphics display modules are industry standard modules. The preferred device includes a Toshiba T6963 driver. These drivers are implemented in display dot pitch sizes ranging from 128×64 to 240×128. They are backlit using LED and cold cathode florescent displays. The display is chosen in accordance with the particular requirements of the application according to the application such as size, back light requirements, and cost. The LCD standard graphic display modules preferably include two styles of connectors, a single row  20  pin and a dual row  20  pin, both of which are included in the computer module. 
   The software drivers are preferably written so that the display size parameters are adjustable. This allows the LCD size to be entered and the software recompiled. 
   Detailed Description of the Keyboard Module 
     FIG. 1  shows the keyboard module  14  in the top-level block diagram. The keyboard module  14  is used to enter data into the computer module  10 . The keyboard module  14  is preferably connected to the computer module  10  via an I 2 C bus. 
     FIG. 4  is a preferred keyboard overlay  56  layout formed in accordance with the present invention. Two soft keys  58  that are located below an LCD display  60  at the far ends of the display and text on the display  60  labels the keys  58  depending on the state of the machine. Other keyboards may be laid out in similar configurations while remaining within the scope of the present invention. 
   Three keys  62  in the center of the layout are preferably used to scroll through selections and data for entry. The center select key  62  is used to select the mode or enter data. 
   Two function keys  64  near the bottom of the overlay are preferably used to jump to specific modes or states. Preferably, they are used to jump to a certain edit mode. An example would be the key labeled Time. When pressed, control preferably jumps to an edit time state. These two keys may be expanded to encompass all states that need to be readily accessed. 
   The LCD graphics module is preferably viewed through a clear window over the display  60 . An infrared window  66  is preferably located in the upper right-hand corner of the overlay. 
     FIG. 5  is a preferred keyboard module circuit board schematic formed in accordance with the present invention. The keys are read by an I 2 C port expander chip PCF8574T U 1 . The processor preferably reacts to the keys as required to perform the selected equipment function. 
   Table 3 is a preferred parts list for the keyboard module  14  as shown in  FIG. 5 . 
   This keyboard is the preferred generic keyboard, but other keyboards for specific applications may be designed so as to more closely match the equipment functional requirements. 
   Multiple modules may be plugged into the system. The modules are addressed using auto address-in signal J 1 - 17  and auto address-out signal J 2 - 17 . The auto-addressing scheme is described below. 
   Table 3 is a preferred parts list for the keyboard module  14  shown in  FIG. 5 . 
   
     
       
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
         
             
               TABLE 3 
             
           
           
             
                 
             
             
               Parts List for Keyboard Module 
             
           
        
         
             
               Item No 
               Qnty 
               Part no 
               Title 
               Detail 
               Reference 
             
             
                 
             
             
               1 
               1 
               635-1-5-2.0 
               Flex Cable 
               Flex Cable .1SP., 5 Pos 2″ (Amp) 
               J2 (SOLDER ON 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
               SOLDER SIDE) 
             
             
               2 
               1 
               634-1-RA-05 
               Header .100 
               Header 5 Pos Right Angle .100 (Crane) 
               J2 (SOLDER ON 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
               SOLDER SIDE) 
             
             
               3 
               7 
               600032 
               Switch 
               Switch, Momentary Tactile Surface mount 
               SW1-SW7 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               On Reel (Schurter) 
             
             
               4 
               1 
               540-8574 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               8-Bit I/O Expander (Signetics) 
               U1 
             
             
               5 
               1 
               400320 
               PCB, INTEMOD 
               PCB, INTEMOD Keypad Board 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Keypad Board 
               (Jet Technology) 
             
             
               6 
               1 
               313-0-.1UF-50V 
               Surface Mount 
               Cap .1 uF, 50 V, +/−10% (Panasonic) 
               C1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Multilayer Ceramic Chip 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Cap. 
             
             
               7 
               2 
               08-0-200 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 200, ⅛ W, 5%, 1206 
               R1, R2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
       
     
   
   Table 4 is a preferred net list for the keyboard module  14 . The net list provide a listing of connectivity between components located on the circuit board according to the reference designations corresponding to the components and pin numbers for the components shown in  FIG. 5 . 
                         TABLE 4               Net List for Keyboard Module       NET List For PCB 400320 Keyboard module                                Net name VCC, U1-16J1-2J2-2C1-A;       Net name 00054, U1-4SW1-3SW1-4;       Net name 00008, U1-5SW2-3SW2-4;       Net name EARTH;       Net name 00000, J1-5-J2-5;       Net name 00001, R2-BJ1-4J2-4;       Net name GND, U1-3U1-2U1-1J1-3J2-3C1-BSW1-1SW1-2SW2-1SW2-       2SW3-1SW3-2SW4-1SW4-2SW5-1SW5-2SW6, 1SW6-2SW7-1SW7-2;       Net name 00049, U1-6SW3-3SW3-4;       Net name 00050, U1-7SW4-3SW4-4;       Net name 00051, U1-9SW5-3SW5-4;       Net name 00052, U1-10SW6-3SW6-4;       Net name 00053, U1-11SW7-3SW7-4;       Net name 00063, R1-AU1-14;       Net name 00064, R2-AU1-15;       Net name 00065, R1-BJ1-1J2-1.                    
Detailed Description of the Power Supply Module
 
     FIGS. 6A and 6B  are schematic diagrams of a preferred power supply module circuit board formed in accordance with the present invention. 10VAC power is preferably applied to connector J 2 , rectified by bridge rectifier BR 2 , and filtered by capacitor C 2 . Resistor R 3  and LED LD 1  form a power-on indicator. Regulator VR 1  and support components diode D 1 , inductor L 1 , and capacitor C 3  form the +5 volt power supply for all connected I/O modules. 
   18VAC power connector J 1  is preferably used for driving 12-24 VDC motors. Bridge rectifier BR 1  and capacitor C 1  rectify and filter the 18VAC power signal. 
   The computer module  10  preferably plugs into connector J 3  with an RJ45 connector and Cat 5 cable. J 4  is used for connection to an auxiliary bus. Buffer U 1  is an I 2 C bi-directional line driver and is used to drive the I 2 C bus cable. Main connector J 5  preferably defines the beginning of the I/O module power and communication bus. 
   A zero crossing detector is preferably provided so that the digital I/O module  22  will switch relay voltages at a zero crossing. This minimizes the electrical noise that the system will generate. 
   Table 5 is a preferred parts list for the power supply module  20  as shown in  FIGS. 6A-6B . 
   
     
       
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
         
             
               TABLE 5 
             
           
           
             
                 
             
             
               Parts List for Power Supply Module 
             
           
        
         
             
               Item 
               Qnty 
               Part Num 
               Title 
               Description 
               Reference 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
         
             
               1 
               1 
               634-RA-20 
               Socket, .100 
               Socket, 20 Pos, Right Angle .100 
               J5 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Samtec) 
             
             
               2 
               2 
               634-3-ST-02 
               Header, .156 
               Header, 2 Pos, Straight Locking .156 
               J1, J2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Samtec) 
             
             
               3 
               1 
               633-1-8X8-T 
               Modular Jack 
               Modular Jack, Top Entry, 8x8 (Amp) 
               J3, J4 
             
             
               4 
               1 
               540-OPTO-PS2701-1 
               Optical 
               Opto Isolator Surface Mount, PS2701-1 
               U2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (NEC) 
             
             
               5 
               1 
               540-82B715 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               I square C, Bus Expander 82B715TD 
               U1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Philips Semiconductor) 
             
             
               6 
               1 
               531001 
               Voltage Regulator 
               Voltage Regulator MIC4680-5.0BM, 
               VR1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               SMD (Micrel) 
             
             
               7 
               1 
               513002 
               Diode 
               Diode, 1N5819MCT, Surface Mount 
               D1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Diodes Inc.) 
             
             
               8 
               1 
               513001 
               Diode 
               Diode, 1N4148, Surface Mount 
               D2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Micro-Semi) 
             
             
               9 
               3 
               511000 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, LED, Red (Lite-On) 
               LD1, LD2, LD3 
             
             
               10 
               2 
               510000 
               Diode 
               Diode, Bridge Rectifier 4A @ 50 V 
               BR1, BR2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               RS401L (Diodes Inc.) 
             
             
               11 
               1 
               400340 
               PCB, Intemod Power 
               PCB, Intemod Power Supply, Rev. A 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Supply Board 
               (National Tech.) 
             
             
               12 
               1 
               314-3-220UF-10V 
               Surface Mount Tantalum 
               Cap 220 uF, 10 V, +/−20%, Low ESR 
               C3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Electrolytic Chip Cap. 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               13 
               1 
               313-0-.1UF-50V 
               Surface Mount Multilayer 
               Cap .1 uF, 50 V, +/−10% (Panasonic) 
               C4 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Ceramic Chip Cap. 
             
             
               14 
               1 
               306-4-3300UF-35V 
               Cap., Electrolytic, Radial 
               Cap, 3300 uF, 20%, 35 V (Panasonic) 
               C2 
             
             
               15 
               1 
               306-4-2200UF-50V 
               Cap., Electrolytic, Radial 
               Cap, 2200 uF, 20%, 50 V (Panasonic) 
               C1 
             
             
               16 
               1 
               191000 
               Inductor 
               68 uH Coil, Surface Mount, UP2B-680 
               L1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               Tape and Reel (Coiltronics) 
             
             
               17 
               1 
               08-3-004.7K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 4.7K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206 5000 
               R7 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               mag) (Panasonic) 
             
             
               18 
               5 
               08-3-002.7K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 2.7K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206) 
               R3, R4, R5, R8, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
               R9 
             
             
               19 
               1 
               08-3-001.0K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 1K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206 5000 
               R6 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               mag) (Panasonic) 
             
             
               20 
               2 
               08-0-200 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 200, ⅛ W, 5%, 1206 
               R1, R2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
       
     
   
   Table 6 is the preferred net list for the power supply module  20 . The net list provides a listing of connectivity between components located on the circuit board according to the reference designations corresponding to the components and pin numbers for the components shown in  FIGS. 6A-6B . 
                         TABLE 6               Net List for Power Supply Module       NET NAME LIST FOR PCB 400340                                Net name 00000, J1-1, BR1-1;       Net name 00001, J1-2, BR1-2;       Net name 00002, U2-4, T5-1, R7-A, J5-19;       Net name GND, J4-1, J4-7, JP2-2, JP2-1, J3-1, J3-7, JP1-2, JP1-1, T6-1, U2-3, D1-A,       C3-2, LD3-1, C4-B, C2-MINUS, BR2-3, LD1-1, C1-MINUS, VR1-1, VR1-5, VR1-6, VR1-7,       VR1-8, BR1-3, LD2-1, J5-1, J5-2, J5-11, J5-12, J5-6, J5-5, J5-14, U1-4;       Net name 00003, T7-1, R6-A, BR2-1, J2-1;       Net name 00016, LD1-2, R3-A;       Net name +24 V, C1-PLUS, BR1-4, R8-B, J5-3, J5-4;       Net name 00061, D1-K, VR1-3, L1-1;       Net name VCC, C3-1, R9-B, C4-A, VR1-4, L1-2, J5-9, J5-10, R7-B, R5-B, R4-B, U1-8;       Net name +14 V, J4-4, J4-5, J3-4, J3-5, C2-PLUS, BR2-4, R3-B, VR1-2, J5-7, J5-8;       Net name 00004, R9-A, LD3-2;       Net name 00017, R8-A, LD2-2;       Net name 00010, U1-2, R1-A;       Net name 00011, U1-7, R2-A;       Net name 00008, U1-6, J5-15, R5-A;       Net name 00005, T1-1, J5-16;       Net name 00007, T2-1, J5-17;       Net name 00013, T3-1, J5-18;       Net name 00014, T4-1, J5-20;       Net name +14 V-BROIL, J4-3, J4-6, J3-3, J3-6;       Net name 00015, R6-B, U2-1, D2-1;       Net name 00033, J4-8, J3-8, R2-B;       Net name 00019, U2-2, D2-2, BR2-2, J2-2;       Net name 00030, J4-2, J3-2, R1-B;       Net name 00020, U1-3, J5-13, R4-A.                    
Detailed Description of the Digital I/O Module
 
     FIG. 1  shows the digital I/O module  22  connected to the system. Multiple digital I/O modules  22  may be added to the same system. The quantity of modules is only preferably limited by the power supply and I 2 C line drivers. 
     FIGS. 7A-7D  show a preferred digital I/O module circuit board schematic formed in accordance with the present invention. The digital I/O module  22  is used to connect to external devices such as motors, motor contactors, and fans using relays K 1  through K 8 . A relay driver ULN2803A U 2  is used to provide the current necessary to drive the relays. Inverter U 3  gate A transmits a zero crossing signal, which switches the relays at a zero crossing point. This minimizes the noise generated by large voltage spikes when the relay contact opens and closes. 
   The digital I/O module  22  also reads external switches using 8 optoisolators PS2801 U 4  and U 5 . 
   Processor U 1  preferably receives data from the computer module  10  and sets the relays, as required. Processor U 1  also reads the optoisolators U 4 , U 5  and holds the data for transmission back to the computer module  10 . 
   Multiple modules may be plugged into the system. The modules are addressed using auto address in-signal J 1 - 17  and auto address-out signal J 2 - 17 . The auto-addressing scheme is described below. 
   Table 7 is a preferred parts list for the digital I/O module  22  shown in  FIGS. 7A-7D . 
   
     
       
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
         
             
               TABLE 7 
             
           
           
             
                 
             
             
               Parts List for Digital I/O Module 
             
           
        
         
             
               Item 
               Qty 
               Part Num 
               Title 
               Detail 
               Reference 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
         
             
               1 
               1 
               634-RA-20 
               Socket, .100 
               Socket, 20 Pos, Right Angle .100\ 
               J2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Samtec) 
             
             
               2 
               2 
               634-3-ST-08 
               Header, .156 
               Header, 8 Pos, Straight Locking .156 
               J4 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Amp) 
             
             
               3 
               1 
               634-2-RA-20 
               Header Dual .100 
               Header, 10 Pos Right Angle .100 Dual Row 
               J1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Crane) 
             
             
               4 
               1 
               6300-02-16 
               Connector 
               Mod IV Hdr Shrded Dbl Row RT Ang 16 Pin 
               J5 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Amp) 
             
             
               5 
               8 
               620207 
               Relay 
               Relay Miniature 12 VDC 6A G6B-1174P- 
               K1-K8 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               USDC12 (Omron) 
             
             
               6 
               1 
               540-ULN2803 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, 8 Channel Darlington Driver 
               U2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               ULN2803A/LW (Allegro) 
             
             
               7 
               2 
               540-OPTO- 
               Optical 
               Opto Quad Isolator Surface Mount, PS2801-4 
               U4, U5 
             
             
                 
                 
               PS2801-4 
                 
               (NEC) 
             
             
               8 
               1 
               540-MC- 
               IC 
               IC Microcontroller P87LPC762BD SMD 
               U1 
             
             
                 
                 
               87LPC762 
                 
               (Philips Semiconductor) 
             
             
               9 
               1 
               540-7406 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, HEX Inverter DM7406M 
               U3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (National) 
             
             
               10 
               8 
               513001 
               Diode 
               Diode, 1N4148, Surface Mount 
               D9, D10, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Micro-Semi) 
               D11, D12, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
               D13, D14, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
               D15, D16 
             
             
               11 
               17 
               511000 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, LED, Red 
               LD1-LD17 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Lite-On) 
             
             
               12 
               1 
               400360 
               PCB, Intemod Relay and 
               PCB, Intemod Relay and Input Board, Rev. A 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Input Board 
               (National Tech.) 
             
             
               13 
               3 
               313-0-.1UF-50V 
               Surface Mount Multilayer 
               Cap .1 uF, 50 V, +/−10% (Panasonic) 
               C1, C2, C3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Ceramic Chip Cap. 
             
             
               14 
               2 
               152102 
               SIP Resistor, Surface 
               SIP, Surface Mount, 8 Res. 1K, Isolated, SOP 
               RN1, RN2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Mount 
               Pkg. (CTS) 
             
             
               15 
               9 
               08-3-004.7K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 4.7K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206 5000 mag) 
               R4, R5, R6, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
               R7, R8, R9, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
               R10, R11, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
               R28 
             
             
               16 
               1 
               08-3-001.0K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 1K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206 5000 mag) 
               R1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               17 
               2 
               08-0-200 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 200, ⅛ W, 5%, 1206 
               R2, R3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
       
     
   
   Table 8 is a preferred net list for the digital I/O module. The net list provides a listing of connectivity between components located on the circuit board according to the reference designations corresponding to the components and pin numbers for the components shown in  FIGS. 7A-7D . 
                         TABLE 8               Net List for Digital I/O Module       NET NAME LIST FOR PCB Digital I/O Module                                Net name 00001, U1-9, R2-A;       Net name 00002, U1-10, R3-A;       Net name 00008, U4-7, LD10-1;       Net name GND, U1-5, U3-5, U3-13, U3-11, U3-9, C3-B, C1-B, LD9-1, J1-11, J1-12,       J2-12, J2-11, U3-7;       Net name 00003, J5-16, RN1-7;       Net name 00004, J5-1, RN1-8;       Net name 00006, U1-7, J1-18, J2-17;       Net name 00010, LD1-1, U2-18, K1-2;       Net name VCC, U1-15, C3-A, C1-A, R28-B, R1-B, J1-10, J1-9, J2-10, J2-9, U3-14, R20-B;       Net name R10-B, R9-B, R11-B, J1-7, J1-8, J2-8, J2-7, R4-B, R6-B, R5-B, R8-B, R7-       B, C2-A, U2-10, RN1-9, RN1-11, RN1-13, RN1-15, RN2-9, RN2-11, RN2-13, RN2-15,       K2-3, K1-3, K3-3, K8-3, K7-3, K6-3, K5-3, K4-3;       Net name 00011, R4-A, LD1-2;       Net name 00072, J4-1, R12-A, C4-B, K1-4;       Net name BROIL, J1-5, J1-6, J2-6, J2-5, C2-B, U2-9, D10-2, D9-2, U4-8, U4-6, D11-2,       D12-2, U4-2, U4-4, U5-2, D16-2, U5-6, U5-8, D13-2, D15-2, D14-2, U5-4,       Net name 00012, U2-17, LD2-1, K2-2;       Net name 00013, R5-A, LD2-2;       Net name 00007, J1-14, T1-1;       Net name 00085, K2-4, J4-3, R13-A, C5-B;       Net name 00017, K2-1, J4-4, R13-B, C5-A;       Net name 00019, U2-16, LD3-1, K3-2;       Net name 00020, R6-A, LD3-2;       Net name 00089, J4-5, K3-4, R14-A, C6-B;       Net name 00095, J4-7, K4-4, R15-A, C7-B;       Net name 00024, U1-16, U2-6;       Net name 00025, U2-15, LD4-1, K4-2;       Net name 00028, R7-A, LD4-2;       Net name 00014, U5-1, LD17-1;       Net name 00027, U1-17, U2-5;       Net name 00036, D9-1, LD10-2, RN1-10;       Net name 00030, J4-8, K4-1, R15-B, C7-A;       Net name 00031, U1-3, U4-12, U5-12;       Net name 00032, U2-14, LD5-1, K5-2;       Net name 00033, R8-A, LD5-2;       Net name 00034, J4-10, K5-4, R16-A, C8-B;       Net name 00035, K5-1, J4-9, R16-B, C8-A;       Net name 00038, D10-1, LD11-2, RN1-12;       Net name 00116, J4-2, R12-B, C4-A, K1-1;       Net name 00037, LD6-1, U2-13, K6-2;       Net name 00039, R9-A, LD6-2;       Net name 00040, J4-12, K6-4, R17-A, C9-B;       Net name 00041, K6-1, J4-11, R17-B, C9-A;       Net name 00042, D11-1, LD12-2, RN1-14;       Net name 00043, LD7-1, U2-12, K7-2;       Net name 00044, R10-A, LD7-2;       Net name 00045, J4-14, K7-4, R18-A, C10-B;       Net name 00046, K7-1, J4-13, R18-B, C10-A;       Net name 00047, D12-1, LD13-2, RN1-16;       Net name 00048, LD8-1, U2-11, K8-2;       Net name 00009, J1-16, T2-1;       Net name 00049, R11-A, LD8-2;       Net name 00050, J4-16, K8-4, R19-A, C11-B;       Net name 00051, K8-1, J4-15, R19-B, C11-A;       Net name 00052, LD14-2, D13-1, RN2-10;       Net name 00005, R2-B, J1-13, J2-13;       Net name 00000, J1-19, 12-19, U3-1;       Net name J1-3, J1-4, J2-3, J2-4;       Net name 00015, J1-20, T3-1;       Net name 00016, J2-14, T4-1;       Net name 00021, J2-16, T5-1;       Net name 00087, U1-13, U2-8;       Net name BROIL, J1-1, J1-2, J2-2, J2-1;       Net name 00053, J1-17, U1-8;       Net name 00054, R1-A, LD9-2;       Net name 00055, LD15-2, D14-1, RN2-12;       Net name 00026, J2-20, T6-1;       Net name 00056, U4-5, LD11-1;       Net name 00057, J5-15, RN1-5;       Net name 00058, J5-2, RN1-6;       Net name 00059, U4-3, LD12-1;       Net name 00060, J5-14, RN1-3;       Net name 00061, J5-3, RN1-4;       Net name 00062, U4-1, LD13-1;       Net name 00063, J5-13, RN1-1;       Net name 00064, J5-4, RN1-2;       Net name 00065, LD14-1, U5-7;       Net name 00066, J5-12, RN2-7;       Net name 00067, J5-5, RN2-8;       Net name 00068, LD15-1, U5-5;       Net name 00069, J5-11, RN2-5;       Net name 00070, J5-6, RN2-6;       Net name 00071, U5-3, LD16-1;       Net name 00073, J5-10, RN2-3;       Net name 00074, J5-7, RN2-4;       Net name 00076, J5-9, RN2-1;       Net name 00077, J5-8, RN2-2;       Net name 00078, R28-A, U3-4, U5-15, U5-11, U5-9, U5-13;       Net name 00079, U1-11, U3-3, U4-9, U4-11, U4-15, U4-13;       Net name 00080, U1-12, U4-16, U5-16;       Net name 00081, U1-2, U4-14, U5-14;       Net name 00082, D15-1, LD16-2, RN2-14;       Net name 00083, U1-4, U4-10, U5-10, R20-A;       Net name 00086, R3-B, J1-15, J2-15;       Net name 00088, U1-14, U2-7;       Net name 00084, D16-1, LD17-2, RN2-16;       Net name 00090, J4-6, K3-1, R14-B, C6-A;       Net name 00091, U1-18, U2-4;       Net name 00092, U1-19, U2-3;       Net name 00093, U1-20, U2-2;       Net name 00094, U1-1, U2-1.                    
Detailed Description of the Temperature Sensor Module
 
     FIG. 1  shows the temperature module  24 . Multiple temperature sensor modules may be attached to the same system. The temperature sensor module  24  preferably accommodates up to 8 resistive thermal device (RTD) temperature probes. The computer module  10  preferably reads the temperatures via the I 2 C bus. 
     FIGS. 8A-8F  show a preferred temperature module circuit board schematic formed in accordance with the present invention. RN 1  and capacitors C 10 -C 17  form a filter bias network for the temperature probes. MM74HC4051 U 4  is a Multiplexer that selects one of 8 temperature probes. U 3  is an amplifier that preferably amplifies the temperature probe voltage. Analog-to-digital converter MCP3201SN U 2  converts the analog voltage to digital data. Microcontroller 87LPC762 U 1  drives U 2  and U 4 . The data is then transmitted to the computer module via the I 2 C bus. 
   Multiple modules may be plugged into the system. The modules are addressed using auto address-in signal J 1 - 17  and auto address-out signal J 2 - 17 . The auto-addressing scheme is described below. 
   Table 9 is a preferred parts list for the temperature sensor module shown in  FIGS. 8A-8F . 
   
     
       
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
         
             
                 
             
             
               Parts List for Temperature Sensor Module 
             
           
        
         
             
               Item 
               Qnty 
               Part Number 
               Title 
               Detail 
               Reference 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
         
             
               1 
               1 
               634-RA-20 
               Socket, .100 
               Socket, 20 Pos, Right Angle .100 (Samtec) 
               J2 
             
             
               2 
               1 
               634-2-RA-20 
               Header Dual .100 
               Header, 10 Pos Right Angle .100 Dual Row 
               J1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Crane) 
             
             
               3 
               1 
               634-1-ST-02 
               Header, .100 
               Header, 2 Pos Straight .100 (Crane) 
               JP1 
             
             
               4 
               1 
               6300-02-16 
               Connector 
               Mod IV Hdr Shrded Dbl Row RT Ang 16 Pin 
               J4 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Amp) 
             
             
               5 
               1 
               540-MC-87LPC762 
               IC 
               IC Microcontroller P87LPC762BD SMD 
               U1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Philips Semiconductor) 
             
             
               6 
               1 
               540-AMP-INA155 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, Instrumentation Amplifier 
               U3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Burr-Brown) 
             
             
               7 
               1 
               540-AD-3201 
               IC, SURFACE MOUNT 
               IC, A/D 12 BIT 1 CHANNEL, MCP3201CI/SN 
               U2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Micro Chip) 
             
             
               8 
               1 
               540-74HC4051 
               IC 
               IC 8-Channel Multiplexer, MM74HC4051M 
               U4 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Fairchild) 
             
             
               9 
               1 
               540-24LC16 
               IC 
               IC Ram, 16K(2Kx8) Serial EEPROM 24LC16/SN 
               U5 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Micro Chip) 
             
             
               10 
               1 
               531004 
               Voltage Regulator 
               Voltage Reg, Shunt Reference, LM4050CIM3-4.1 
               VR1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (National) 
             
             
               11 
               1 
               511000 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, LED, Red (Lite-On) 
               LD1 
             
             
               12 
               1 
               400380 
               PCB, Intemod RTD 
               PCB, Intemod RTD Board, Rev. A 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Board 
             
             
               13 
               3 
               314-2-10UF-16V 
               Surface Mount 
               Cap 10 uF, 16 V, +/−20% (Panasonic) 
               C2, C4, C6 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Tantalum Electrolytic 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Cap. 
             
             
               14 
               13 
               313-0-.1UF-50V 
               Surface Mount 
               Cap .1 uF, 50 V, +/−10% (Panasonic) 
               C3, C5, C7-C17 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Multilayer Ceramic Chip 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Cap. 
             
             
               15 
               1 
               152473 
               SIP Resistor, Surface 
               SIP, Surface Mount, 15 Res. 47K, Bussed, SOP 
               RN1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Mount 
               Pkg. (CTS) 
             
             
               16 
               1 
               08-3-001.0K 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 1K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206 5000 mag) 
               R1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               17 
               2 
               08-0-200 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 200, ⅛ W, 5%, 1206 (Panasonic) 
               R8, R9 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
             
             
               18 
               2 
               07-3-010.0K 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 10.2K, ⅛ W, 1% (1206 5000 mag) 
               R4, R5 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               19 
               1 
               07-3-002.7K 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 2.7K, ⅛ W, 1% (1206) (Panasonic) 
               R2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
             
             
               20 
               2 
               07-3-001.0K 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 1.0K, ⅛ W, 1% (1206 5000 mag) 
               R6, R7 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
       
     
   
   Table 10 is a preferred net list for the temperature sensor module  14 . The net list provides a listing of connectivity between components located on the circuit board according to the reference designations corresponding to the components and pin numbers for the components shown in  FIGS. 8A-8F . 
                         TABLE 10               Net List for Temperature Sensor Module       NET NAME FOR PCB 400380                                Net name 00001, J2-14, JP2-2;       Net name 00033, T5-1, U1-8;       Net name 00022, U1-17, U4-11;       Net name GND, TP2-1, U5-7, U1-5, U2-3, U2-4, J1-12, J1-11, LD1-1, J2-12, J2-11,       VR1-2, C3-B, C5-B, C1-B, C2-2, C4-2, C7-B, C9-B, C6-2, U3-5, U3-4, R7-A, R6-A,       U4-8, U4-7, U4-6, J4-4, J4-3, J4-2, C16-B, C15-B, C14-B, C10-B, C11-B, C12-B, C13-B,       J4-6, J4-7, J4-8, J4-5, C17-B, J4-1, U5-4;       Net name 00023, U5-2, U1-12;       Net name 00019, R4-A, U4-3;       Net name 00020, R7-B, JP1-2;       Net name 00027, J1-13, J2-13, R9-B;       Net name VCC, U1-15, U2-8, J1-10, J1-9, R1-B, J2-10, J2-9, R2-B, C3-A, C1-A, C2-1,       C7-A, C9-A, C6-1, U3-7, U4-16, U5-8;       Net name +14 V, J1-8, J1-7, J2-7, J2-8;       Net name +14 V-BROIL, J1-5, J1-6, J2-6, J2-5;       Net name V_REF, RN1-16, U2-1, R2-A, VR1-1, C5-A, C4-1;       Net name 00000, J1-19, J2-19;       Net name +24 V, J1-3, J1-4, J2-3, J2-4;       Net name +24 V-BROIL, J1-1, J1-2, J2-2, J2-1;       Net name 00053, U1-6, J1-17;       Net name 00054, R1-A, LD1-2;       Net name 00060, U1-20, U2-6;       Net name 00086, U5-6, U1-10, R8-A;       Net name 00062, U1-19, U2-7;       Net name 00002, J2-16, JP2-4;       Net name 00003, J2-20, JP2-6;       Net name 00004, J1-14, JP2-1;       Net name 00010, J1-20, JP2-5;       Net name 00011, J1-16, JP2-3;       Net name 00021, T1-1, U1-18;       Net name 00013, U1-7, J1-18, J2-17;       Net name 00014, U1-14, U4-9;       Net name 00015, RN1-1, J4-9, U4-13, C10-A;       Net name 00026, U5-5, U1-9, R9-A;       Net name 00028, J1-15, R8-B, J2-15;       Net name 00005, U4-14, C11-A, RN1-2, J4-10;       Net name 00006, U1-16, U4-10;       Net name 00016, U4-15, C12-A, RN1-3, J4-11;       Net name 00024, U5-3, U1-13;       Net name 00018, U4-12, C13-A, RN1-4, J4-12;       Net name 00032, U4-1, C14-A, J4-13, RN1-5;       Net name 00025, U5-1, U1-11;       Net name 00034, U4-5, C15-A, RN1-6, J4-14;       Net name 00029, T2-1, U1-2;       Net name 00036, U4-2, C16-A, RN1-7, J4-15;       Net name 00030, T3-1, U1-3;       Net name 00038, U4-4, RN1-8, J4-16, C17-A;       Net name 00039, TP1-1, U2-2, U3-6;       Net name 00031, T4-1, U1-4;       Net name 00007, U3-8, U3-1, R3-2, R3-1;       Net name 00008, R4-B, C8-A, U3-3;       Net name 00009, R5-B, C8-B, U3-2;       Net name 00017, U1-1, U2-5;       Net name 00012, R5-A, R6-B, JP1-1, RN1-15.                    
Detailed Description of the Pressure Sensor Module
 
     FIG. 1  shows the pressure sensor module  26  in the system. The pressure sensor module  26  preferably measures gas pressure and liquid pressures in the 0-15 PSI range. 
     FIGS. 9A-9D  show a preferred pressure sensor module circuit board schematic formed in accordance with the present invention. Four pressure sensors MPX2010GP-O PS 1 -PS 4  are preferably mounted on one pressure module  26 . The signals from the pressure sensors are fed into a multiplexer 74HC4052 U 5  and amplified by amplifiers INA155U U 4  and OPA2336 U 3   a . Amplifier OPA2336 U 3   b  injects offset voltage to compensate for the zero pressure offset voltage of the device. Converter MCP32015N U 2  converts analog voltages to digital data. Microprocessor 87LPC762 U 1  selects the multiplexer channels and drives the converter U 2 . The digital values read by the processor U 1  are buffered and, when commanded, the numbers are sent to the computer module  10  via the I 2 C bus. 
   EPROM 24LC16 U 6  preferably contains the calibration information for the pressure module  26 . This allows the board to be moved from system to system while retaining offset and gain calibration parameters. 
   Multiple modules may be plugged into the system. The modules are addressed using auto address-in signal J 1 - 17  and auto address-out signal J 2 - 17 . The auto-addressing scheme is described below. 
   Table 11 is a preferred parts list for the pressure sensor module  26  shown in  FIGS. 9A-9D . 
   
     
       
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
         
             
               TABLE 11 
             
           
           
             
                 
             
             
               Parts List for Pressure Sensor Module 
             
           
        
         
             
               Item 
               Qty 
               Part 
               Title 
               Detail 
               Reference 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
         
             
               1 
               1 
               634-RA-20 
               Socket, .100 
               Socket, 20 Pos, Right Angle .100 
               J2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Samtec) 
             
             
               2 
               1 
               634-2-ST-06 
               Header, Dual .100 
               Header, 6 Pos Straight .100 Dual Row 
               JP1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Crane) 
             
             
               3 
               1 
               634-2-RA-20 
               Header Dual .100 
               Header, 10 Pos Right Angle .100 Dual 
               J1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               Row (Crane) 
             
             
               4 
               2 
               580003 
               Sensor 
               Pressure Sensor PCB Mount 1.5 PSI 
               PS1, PS2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Motorola) 
             
             
               5 
               1 
               540-MM74HC4052 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Dual 4-Channel Analog Multiplexer 
               U5 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               MM74HC4052M (Fairchild) 
             
             
               6 
               1 
               540-MC-87LPC762 
               IC 
               IC Microcontroller P87LPC762BD SMD 
               U1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Philips Semiconductor) 
             
             
               7 
               1 
               540-AMP-OPA2336 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, Cmos Dual OpAmp, 
               U3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               OPA2336 (Burr-Brown) 
             
             
               8 
               1 
               540-AMP-INA155 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, Instrumentation 
               U4 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               Amplifier (Burr-Brown) 
             
             
               9 
               1 
               540-AD-3201 
               IC, SURFACE MOUNT 
               IC, A/D 12 BIT 1 CHANNEL, 
               U2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               MCP3201CI/SN (Micro-Chip) 
             
             
               10 
               1 
               540-24LC16 
               IC 
               IC Ram, 16K(2Kx8) Serial EEPROM 
               U6 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               24LC16/SN (Micro-Chip) 
             
             
               11 
               1 
               531004 
               Voltage Regulator 
               Voltage Reg, Shunt Reference, 
               VR1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               LM4050CIM3-4.1 (National) 
             
             
               12 
               1 
               511000 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, LED, Red (Lite-On) 
               LD1 
             
             
               13 
               1 
               400385 
               PCB, Intemod Pressure 
               PCB, Intemod Pressure Board, Rev. A 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Board 
               (National Tech.) 
             
             
               14 
               3 
               314-2-10UF-16V 
               Surface Mount Tantalum 
               Cap 10 uF, 16 V, +/−20% (Panasonic) 
               C8, C9, C10 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Electrolytic Chip Cap. 
             
             
               15 
               7 
               313-0-.1UF-50V 
               Surface Mount Multilayer 
               Cap .1 uF, 50 V, +/−10% (Panasonic) 
               C1, C2, C3, C4, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Ceramic Chip Cap. 
                 
               C5, C6, C7 
             
             
               16 
               1 
               313-0-.01UF-50V 
               Surface Mount Multilayer 
               Cap .01 uF, 50 V, +/−10% (Panasonic) 
               C11 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Ceramic Chip Cap. 
             
             
               17 
               2 
               08-3-010.0K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 10K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206 5000 
               R10, R11 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               mag) (Panasonic) 
             
             
               18 
               1 
               08-3-001.0K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 1K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206 5000 mag) 
               R1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               19 
               2 
               08-0-200 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 200, ⅛ W, 5%, 1206 
               R3, R4 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               20 
               1 
               07-3-030.1K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 30.1K, ⅛ W, 1% (Panasonic) 
               R6 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
             
             
               21 
               2 
               07-3-02.49K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 2.49K, ⅛ W, 1% (Panasonic) 
               R5, R7 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
             
             
               22 
               1 
               07-3-012.7K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 12.7K, ⅛ W, 1% (Panasonic) 
               R8 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
             
             
               23 
               1 
               07-3-002.7K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 2.7K, ⅛ W, 1% (1206) 
               R2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               24 
               2 
               07-3-001.0K 
               Surface Mount Thick Film 
               Resistor, 1.0K, ⅛ W, 1% (1206 5000 
               R9 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Resistor 
               mag) (Panasonic) 
             
             
               25 
               4 
               011800 
               Hardware 
               Nylon Key-Hole Clip 
               PS1, PS2 
             
             
               26 
               1 
               011000 
               Hardware 
               Plastic Rod .125″ dia. (8′ Lengths) 
               PS1, PS2 (CUT 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
               TO 2.40″) 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
       
     
   
   Table 12 is a preferred net list for the pressure sensor module  26 . The net list provides a listing of connectivity between components located on the circuit board according to the reference designations corresponding to the components and pin numbers of the components shown in  FIGS. 9A-9D . 
                         TABLE 12               Net List for Pressure Sensor Module       NET NAME FOR PCB 400385                                Net name 00005, U5-3, R10-A;       Net name 00000, U1-18, T1-1;       Net name 00001, U1-14, T6-1;       Net name GND, U1-5, U6-7, C6-B, C1-B, U2-3, U2-4, TP4-1, U3-4,       R9-A, C2-B, C3-B, C9-2, J1-12, J1-11, LD1-1, VR1-2, J2-12, J2-11,       C7-B, C8-2, PS1-1, PS2-1, U4-4, U5-6, U5-8, U5-7, C4-B, C5-B,       C10-2, J3-1, J4-1, U6-4;       Net name 00002, U1-8, T5-1;       Net name 00006, U5-13, R11-A;       Net name +V1, U2-1, R8-B, R2-A, VR1-1, C7-A, C8-1, PS1-3, PS2-3,       J3-3, J4-3;       Net name +14 V, J1-7, J1-8, J2-8, J2-7;       Net name VCC, U1-15, C6-A, C1-A, U2-8, U3-8, C2-A, C3-A, C9-1,       R1-B, J1-10, J1-9, R2-B, J2-9, J2-10, U4-7, U5-16, C4-A, C5-A,       C10-1, U6-8;       Net name +14 V-BROIL, J1-6, J1-5, J2-6, J2-5;       Net name +24 V, J1-4, J1-3, J2-3, J2-4;       Net name 00012, U2-2, TP3-1, U3-1, R6-B;       Net name +24 V-BROIL, J1-2, J1-1, J2-2, J2-1;       Net name 00036, JP1-2, J2-14;       Net name 00037, JP1-4, J2-16;       Net name 00057, U5-11, J4-4;       Net name 00038, JP1-6, J2-20;       Net name 00060, U1-20, U2-6;       Net name 00086, U1-10, U6-6, R3-A;       Net name 00062, U1-19, U2-7;       Net name 00040, JP1-5, J1-20;       Net name 00041, JP1-3, J1-16;       Net name 00042, U1-7, J1-18, J2-17;       Net name 00043, J1-19, J2-19;       Net name 00044, U1-6, J1-17;       Net name 00045, R1-A, LD1-2;       Net name 00058, U5-15, J3-4;       Net name 00014, U3-3, R5-B;       Net name 00026, U1-9, U6-5, R4-A;       Net name 00046, R4-B, J1-13, J2-13;       Net name 00015, U3-2, R6-A, R7-B;       Net name 00022, U1-11, U6-1;       Net name 00019, R8-A, R9-B, U3-5;       Net name 00020, U3-7, U3-6, U4-5, R7-A;       Net name 00018, U1-12, U6-2;       Net name 00021, U1-13, U6-3;       Net name 00047, R3-B, J1-15, J2-15;       Net name 00048, JP1-1, J1-14;       Net name 00051, PS2-4, U5-14;       Net name 00052, PS1-4, U5-12;       Net name 00053, U5-4, J4-2;       Net name 00054, J3-2, U5-2;       Net name 00039, U4-6, R5-A;       Net name 00055, PS2-2, U5-5;       Net name 00056, PS1-2, U5-1;       Net name 00059, U1-16, U5-9;       Net name 00003, U1-4, T4-1;       Net name 00063, U1-17, U5-10;       Net name 00004, U1-3, T3-1;       Net name 00007, U4-8, U4-1;       Net name 00008, U4-3, R10-B, C11-A;       Net name 00009, U4-2, C11-B, R11-B;       Net name 00017, U1-1, U2-5;       Net name 00010, U1-2, T2-1.                    
Detailed Description of the Motor Control Module
 
     FIG. 1  shows the motor control module  28  in accordance with the present invention. The motor control module  28  preferably supplies a voltage directly to 12-24VCD motors. The motor may be run forward or reverse. The speed is sensed and may be tightly controlled with the computer module  10 . 
     FIGS. 10A-10E  show a preferred motor control module circuit board schematic formed in accordance with the present invention. The motor connects directly to connector TB 1 A-TB 1 C. Transistor STP45NE05 Q 1  switches the motor to ground preferably in a pulse width modulation mode. Connector TB 1 E-TB 1 D preferably provides the encoder input. Buffers 7406 U 2  drive a motor pulse width modulation signal PWM to drive transistor Q 1 . Relay K 1  preferably reconnects the motor windings to allow the motor to reverse direction on command. 
   The encoder is attached to the motor shaft and preferably feeds back a frequency proportional to motor speed. Relays K 2  and K 3  are spare relays. 
   Microprocessor P87LCP762BD U 1  receives motor set speed data from the computer module  10  via the I 2 C bus. The actual speed is transmitted to the computer module  10 . 
   Multiple modules may be plugged into the system. The modules are addressed using auto address in-signal J 1 - 17  and auto address out-signal J 2 - 17 . The auto-addressing scheme is described below. 
   Table 13 is a preferred parts list for the motor control module  28  shown in  FIGS. 10A-10E . 
   
     
       
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
         
             
               TABLE 13 
             
           
           
             
                 
             
             
               Parts List for Motor Control Module 
             
           
        
         
             
               Item 
               Qty 
               Part 
               Title 
               Detail 
               Reference 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
         
             
               1 
               1 
               663022 
               Terminal Block 
               Terminal Block, Plug 6 Pin 
               TB1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Weidmuller) 
             
             
               2 
               1 
               663021 
               Terminal Block 
               Terminal Block, Header 6 Pin 
               TB1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Weidmuller) 
             
             
               3 
               1 
               634-RA-20 
               Socket, .100 
               Socket, 20 Pos, Right Angle .100 
               J2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Samtec) 
             
             
               4 
               1 
               634-3-ST-06 
               Header, .156 
               Header, 6 Pos, Straight Locking .156 
               J3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Crane) 
             
             
               5 
               1 
               634-2-ST-06 
               Header, Dual .100 
               Header, 6 Pos Straight .100 Dual Row 
               JP1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Crane) 
             
             
               6 
               1 
               634-2-RA-20 
               Header Dual .100 
               Header, 10 Pos Right Angle .100 Dual Row 
               J1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Crane) 
             
             
               7 
               3 
               620235 
               Relay 
               Relay 12VDC DPDT 8A/30VDC contact 
               K1, K2, K3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Omron) 
             
             
               8 
               1 
               561000 
               Crystal 
               Crystal, Surface Mount, 11.0592 MHZ, 
               Y1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               Quartz (Citizen) 
             
             
               9 
               1 
               550016 
               Transistor 
               Transistor Fet, STP45NE06 
               Q1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Motorola) 
             
             
               10 
               1 
               540-MC- 
               IC 
               IC Microcontroller P87LPC762BD SMD 
               U1 
             
             
                 
                 
               87LPC762 
                 
               (Philips Semiconductor) 
             
             
               11 
               1 
               540-7407 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, HEX Inverter 
               U3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               DM7407M (National) 
             
             
               12 
               1 
               540-7406 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, HEX Inverter 
               U2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               DM7406M (National) 
             
             
               13 
               1 
               513002 
               Diode 
               Diode, 1N5819MCT, Surface Mount 
               D5 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Diodes Inc.) 
             
             
               14 
               3 
               513001 
               Diode 
               Diode, 1N4148, Surface Mount 
               D1, D2, D3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Micro-chip) 
             
             
               15 
               6 
               511000 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, LED, Red (Lite-On) 
               LD1, LD2, LD3, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
               LD4, LD5, LD6 
             
             
               16 
               1 
               400502 
               PCB, I/O and Relay 
               PCB, I/O and Relay Board, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Board, Add-On 
               (Jet Technology) 
             
             
               17 
               1 
               314-2-10UF-16V 
               Surface Mount 
               Cap 10 uF, 16 V, +/−20% 
               C8 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Tantalum 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Electrolytic Chip 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Cap. 
             
             
               18 
               2 
               313-2-27PF-50V 
               Surface Mount 
               Cap 27 pF, 50 V, +/−5% 
               C2, C3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Multilayer Ceramic 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Cap. 
             
             
               19 
               4 
               313-0-.1UF-50V 
               Surface Mount 
               Cap .1 uF, 50 V, +/−10% 
               C4, C5, C6, C7 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Multilayer Ceramic 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Chip Cap. 
             
             
               20 
               1 
               306-4-2200UF-50V 
               Cap., 
               Cap, 2200 uF, 20%, 50 V 
               C1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Electrolytic, Radial 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               21 
               1 
               121000 
               Fuse 
               Fuse Resetable, 1.1 A Surface Mount PTC 
               F1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Little Fuse) 
             
             
               22 
               5 
               08-3-004.7K 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 4.7K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206 5000 mag) 
               R5, R8, R9, R10, 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
               R11 
             
             
               23 
               1 
               08-3-002.7K 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 2.7K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206) 
               R4 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               24 
               1 
               08-3-001.0K 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 1K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206 5000 mag) 
               R1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               25 
               2 
               08-0-200 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 200, ⅛ W, 5%, 1206 
               R2, R3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               26 
               2 
               08-0-100 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 100, ⅛ W, 5%, 1206 
               R6, R7 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
       
     
   
   Table 16 is a preferred net list for the motor control module  28 . The net list provides a listing of connectivity between components located on the circuit board according to the reference designations corresponding to the components and pin numbers for the components shown in  FIGS. 10A-10E . 
                         TABLE 16               Net List for Motor Control Module       NET NAME LIST FOR PCB 400502                                Net name 00090, U3-2, U1-11;       Net name 00011, R5-A, LD2-2;       Net name 00001, J2-14, JP1-2;       Net name GND, U3-3, U2-5, U2-3, U2-1, C3-B, C2-B, C4-B, C5-B,       C6-B, U1-5, LD1-1, J1-12, J1-11, J2-11, J2-12, C8-2, C7-B, TB1-4;       Net name 00089, U1-17, U3-13;       Net name RELAY_SYNC_IN, U1-12, J1-20, JP1-5;       Net name +24 V, J1-3, J1-4, J2-3, J2-4, C1-PLUS, F1-2;       Net name AUTO_ADDR_OUT, U1-2, J1-18, J2-17;       Net name VCC, C4-A, C5-A, C6-A, U1-15, U1-4, R1-B, J1-9, J1-10,       J2-9, J2-10, R7-B, U2-14, U3-14;       Net name +14 V, J1-7, J1-8, J2-7, J2-8, R9-B, R10-B, R11-B, K3-1,       J3-1, D3-1, R4-B, ;R5-B, R8-B, D2-1, K2-1, K1-1, D1-1;       Net name 00008, LD6-1, U3-12, J3-2;       Net name 00091, U1-13, T1-1;       Net name 00085, U1-9, R2-A;       Net name 00004, U1-20, T2-1;       Net name 00046, U3-6, LD3-1, D2-2, K2-16;       Net name 00016, LD5-1, U3-10, J3-3;       Net name +24 V-BROIL, J1-2, J1-1, J2-1, J2-2, C1-MINUS, Q1-3;       Net name 00045, D4-1, D5-K, F1-1, K1-6, K1-9;       Net name 00042, K3-8, K3-9, J3-5;       Net name 00012, LD6-2, R11-A;       Net name 00043, K3-4, K3-13, J3-4, K2-4, K2-13;       Net name 00013, LD5-2, R10-A;       Net name 00014, LD4-2, R9-A;       Net name 00055, U1-19, U3-9;       Net name 00024, R4-A, U2-8, Q1-1;       Net name 00027, LD2-1, U2-10, K1-16, D1-2;       Net name 00026, D4-2, D5-A, Q1-2, K1-8, K1-11;       Net name 00025, K1-13, TB1-1;       Net name 00028, K1-4, TB1-2;       Net name 00033, C2-A, Y1-1, U1-7;       Net name 00034, C3-A, Y1-2, U1-6;       Net name 00015, LD3-2, R8-A;       Net name 00048, R6-A, TB1-6;       Net name +14 V-BROIL, J1-5, J1-6, J2-5, J2-6, U2-7, U3-7;       Net name 00044, J3-6, K2-8, K2-9;       Net name 00041, LD4-1, U3-8, K3-16, D3-2;       Net name 00018, U1-14, U3-5;       Net name 00073, J1-16, JP1-3;       Net name 00074, U1-3, J1-17;       Net name 00023, U1-18, U2-9;       Net name 00075, U1-16, J2-20, JP1-6, U3-11;       Net name 00076, J1-14, JP1-1;       Net name 00078, U1-10, R3-A;       Net name 00080, R2-B, J1-13, J2-13;       Net name 00002, R6-B, U2-13;       Net name 00040, U1-1, U2-11;       Net name 00082, R3-B, J1-15, J2-15;       Net name 00083, J2-16, JP1-4;       Net name 00084, R1-A, LD1-2;       Net name 00086, U3-1, J1-19, J2-19;       Net name 00009, U1-8, U2-12;       Net name EARTH, TB1-3, T4-1;       Net name 00007, C8-1, R7-A, TB1-5, C7-A.                    
Detailed Description of the RS-232 Expansion Module
 
     FIG. 1  shows additional modules  30  plugging into the system in accordance with the present invention. The RS-232 expansion module is preferably one example of an additional module  30 . The RS-232 expansion module preferably includes two RS-232 ports. 
     FIGS. 11A-11D  show a preferred RS-232 expansion module circuit board schematic in accordance with the present invention. Two RJ11 connectors J 3  and J 4  are preferably used to connect external computers to the system. RS-232 transceiver U 3  level shifts the data from +5 levels to +/−10 volt RS-232 levels. 
   87LPC762BD U 1  and U 2  are microprocessors that contain UARTs that are programmed to receive data at baud rates programmed by the computer module  10 . The data is transmitted using the I 2 C bus. 
   Multiple modules may be plugged into the system. The modules are addressed using auto address-in signal J 1 - 17  and auto address-out signal J 2 - 17 . The auto-addressing scheme is described below. 
   Table 15 is a preferred parts list for the RS-232 expansion module shown in  FIGS. 11A-11D . 
   
     
       
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
             
             
             
             
             
             
           
         
             
               TABLE 15 
             
           
           
             
                 
             
             
               Parts List for the RS-232 Expansion Module 
             
           
        
         
             
               Item 
               Qnty 
               Part Number 
               Title 
               Detail 
               Reference 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
         
             
               1 
               1 
               634-RA-20 
               Socket, .100 
               Socket, 20 Pos, Right Angle .100 
               J2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Samtec) 
             
             
               2 
               1 
               634-2-ST-06 
               Header, Dual .100 
               Header, 6 Pos Straight .100 Dual Row 
               JP1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Crane) 
             
             
               3 
               1 
               634-2-RA-20 
               Header Dual .100 
               Header, 10 Pos Right Angle .100 Dual Row 
               J1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Crane) 
             
             
               4 
               2 
               633-1-6X6-T 
               Connector 
               Phone Jack, 6x6 Top Entry Without Stops 
               J3, J4 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Amp) 
             
             
               5 
               2 
               561000 
               Crystal 
               Crystal, Surface Mount, 11.0592 MHZ, Quartz 
               Y1, Y2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Citizen) 
             
             
               6 
               1 
               540-RS-MAX232 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC RS-232 Transmitter and Receiver, 
               U3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               MAX232CSE (SGS Thompson) 
             
             
               7 
               2 
               540-MC-87LPC762 
               IC 
               IC Microcontroller P87LPC762BD SMD 
               U1, U2 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Philips Semiconductor) 
             
             
               8 
               1 
               511000 
               IC, Surface Mount 
               IC, Surface Mount, LED, Red 
               LD1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
                 
               (Lite-On) 
             
             
               9 
               1 
               400361 
               PCB, Intemod RS-232 
               PCB, Intemod RS-232t Board, Rev. A 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Board 
               (National Tech.) 
             
             
               10 
               4 
               314-2-10UF-16V 
               Surface Mount Tantalum 
               Cap 10 uF, 16 V, +/−20% 
               C7, C8, C9, C10 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Electrolytic Chip Cap. 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               11 
               4 
               313-2-27PF-50V 
               Surface Mount 
               Cap 27 pF, 50 V, +/−5% 
               C2, C3, C4, C5 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Multilayer Ceramic Chip 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Cap. 
             
             
               12 
               3 
               313-0-.1UF-50V 
               Surface Mount 
               Cap .1 uF, 50 V, +/−10% 
               C1, C6, C11 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Multilayer Ceramic Chip 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Cap. 
             
             
               13 
               1 
               08-3-001.0K 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 1K, ⅛ W, 5% (1206 5000 mag) 
               R1 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
               14 
               2 
               08-0-200 
               Surface Mount Thick 
               Resistor, 200, ⅛ W, 5%, 1206 
               R2, R3 
             
             
                 
                 
                 
               Film Chip Resistor 
               (Panasonic) 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
       
     
   
   Table 16 is a preferred net list for the RS-232 expansion module. The net list provides a listing of connectivity between components located on the circuit board according to the reference designations corresponding to the components and pin numbers for the components shown in  FIGS. 11A-11D . 
                             TABLE 16               Net List for RS-232 Expansion Module       NET NAME LIST FOR PCB 400361                                    Net name GND, U3-15, U1-5, C2-B, C3-B, U2-5, C6-B,           C4-B, C5-B, J1-12, J1-11, LD1-1, J2-11, J2-12, C1-B,           C7-1, J3-2, J4-2, C11-B;           Net name VCC, U3-16, U1-15, U2-15, C6-A, J1-10, J1-9,           R1-B, J2-10, J2-9, C1-A, C10-2, C11-A;           Net name +14 V, J1-7, J1-8, J2-8, J2-7;           Net name +14 V-BROIL, J1-6, J1-5, J2-6, J2-5;           Net name +24 V, J1-3, J1-4, J2-4, J2-3;           Net name +24 V-BROIL, J1-1, J1-2, J2-2, J2-1;           Net name 00001, J2-14, JP1-2;           Net name 00005, U3-11, U1-12;           Net name 00021, JP2-2, U2-3, J1-18, J2-17;           Net name 00002, J2-16, JP1-4;           Net name 00003, JP1-6, J2-20;           Net name 00004, J1-14, JP1-1;           Net name 00010, J1-20, JP1-5;           Net name 00011, J1-16, JP1-3;           Net name 00022, JP2-1, U1-3, U2-2;           Net name 00006, U3-10, U2-12;           Net name 00085, U1-9, U2-9, R2-A;           Net name 00075, U3-14, J3-4;           Net name 00007, J1-19, J2-19;           Net name 00008, U1-2, J1-17;           Net name 00009, R1-A, LD1-2;           Net name 00012, U1-10, U2-10, R3-A;           Net name 00014, J1-13, J2-13, R2-B;           Net name 00015, R3-B, J1-15, J2-15;           Net name 00013, U3-9, U2-11;           Net name 00033, Y1-1, U1-7, C2-A;           Net name 00034, Y1-2, U1-6, C3-A;           Net name 00016, Y2-1, U2-7, C4-A;           Net name 00017, Y2-2, U2-6, C5-A;           Net name 00018, U1-1, T3-1;           Net name 00019, U1-20, T10-1;           Net name 00023, U3-12, U1-11;           Net name 00138, U3-1, C9-1;           Net name 00143, U3-2, C10-1;           Net name 00069, U3-5, C8-2;           Net name 00073, U3-6, C7-2;           Net name 00074, U3-3, C9-2;           Net name 00076, U3-4, C8-1;           Net name 00020, U1-19, T9-1;           Net name 00026, U3-13, J3-3;           Net name 00028, U3-8, J4-3;           Net name 00027, U3-7, J4-4;           Net name 00024, U1-18, T8-1;           Net name 00025, U1-17, T7-1;           Net name 00029, U1-16, T6-1;           Net name 00030, U1-14, T5-1;           Net name 00031, U1-13, T4-1;           Net name 00032, U1-8, T1-1;           Net name 00035, U1-4, T2-1;           Net name 00036, U2-1, T11-1,           Net name 00045, U2-20, T14-1;           Net name 00046, U2-19, T15-1;           Net name 00047, U2-18, T16-1;           Net name 00048, U2-17, T17-1;           Net name 00049, U2-16, T18-1;           Net name 00050, U2-14, T19-1;           Net name 00051, U2-13, T20-1;           Net name 00052, U2-8, T13-1;           Net name 00053, U2-4, T12-1.                        
Detailed Description of Auto-addressing
 
     FIG. 12  is a flow chart for auto-addressing formed in accordance with the present invention. On power up, each module type is initialized with a unique board type in the computer module in step  68 , as shown in Table 17. 
   
     
       
             
           
             
             
           
         
             
               TABLE 17 
             
           
           
             
                 
             
             
               Board Identifier Addresses 
             
           
        
         
             
               Board Type 
               Identifier 
             
             
                 
             
             
               21 
               Digital I/O Module 
             
             
               32 
               Temperature Module 
             
             
               33 
               Pressure Module 
             
             
               43 
               Motor Module 
             
             
                 
             
           
        
       
     
   
   Each I/O module processor preferably initializes the corresponding I 2 C port on the I/O module off in step  70 . Each I/O module processor will then continuously check its auto address-in pin for a low or ground in step  72 . 
   The power supply module will preferably have auto address-in pin grounded. This is preferably the first board to be addressed. When the I/O module processor detects the auto address-in pin low, the I 2 C port is activated in step  74 . 
   The computer module has a table listing of the boards that are connected to the system. The computer module then preferably addresses the next board in the list in step  76 . If the board responds with a correct message, the computer module sets the address to a sequential numeric address in step  78 . If the board responds with an incorrect message, the computer module preferably halts and displays an error in step  80 . The computer module preferably re-addresses the I/O board with its new address in step  82 . 
   When the I/O module sets its new address, it preferably sets its auto address-out pin low in step  84 , which signals the next board to activate its I 2 C port in step  86 . 
   The computer module preferably checks its list, and if it is not finished, it continues through the address setting process until all the boards are addressed in step  88 . This method allows for the I/O boards to have fixed identifiers with the ability to place multiple identical I/O boards on the bus. Because of external hookup considerations once the application forms the board list, the boards will preferably be placed in the same order each time. 
   Detailed Description of the Font Bit Map Conversion Method 
     FIG. 13  shows bitmap representations of part of the ANSI character set formed in accordance with the present invention. The entire character set is preferably generated for each height and font style required to be shown on the LCD display. 
   The characters are preferably placed on top of each other in the order of the ASCII character standard. A ruler  90  is preferably placed to the left for reference. Characters are spaced with two spaces above and one space below. In the top space of each character is placed a kerning dot  92 . This kerning dot  92  is used to determine the length of each character to be drawn. The character set being drawn preferably determines the character height. The example is of a 10-pitch character height. 
     FIG. 14  shows the output of the conversion file alphabet, as formed in accordance with the present invention. A conversion program preferably reads the picture file and creates two arrays  94 ,  96  in hexadecimal format. The first line read is preferably the kerning bit. This bit is converted to the length of the picture of the character. This number is preferably written out. The next number is preferably the height of the character. The example hexadecimal 0xC0 is 10 decimal. The next 10 lines are preferably read and the bits are converted so that 1=pixel on and 0=pixel off. This continues through the file until the character set is converted. 
   The second array  96  is preferably created for the index of the beginning location of each character in the array. The letter W takes more array space than the letter I, so a second array is preferably created to account for the random number of bytes it takes to create a character. 
   The embedded system can then address a picture by indexing into the first array, which preferably provides the starting location of the beginning of the picture. This number is placed as a pointer into the picture array and then is drawn as a picture in the middle of the screen. 
   Description of LCD Drivers 
   The main software LCD drivers in the preferred embodiment are:
         1—Auto write graphics to the entire screen; and   2—Write a portion of a graphic or icon starting at any xy pixel point, write across x number of pixels and down y number of pixels in positive or negative mode.       

   It is anticipated that the busses, such as the I 2 C bus, referred to above may be serial, parallel, wired, or wireless while remaining within the scope of the present invention. 
   The embedded control system formed in accordance with the present invention avoids many of the disadvantages inherent in systems utilizing a common backplane, which couples a plurality of boards. Backplanes, such as those used in VME (versamodule eurocard) bus systems, limit the number of boards or modules that may be connected to the backplane since only a predefined quantity of slots are provided. In addition, if fewer than this predefined quantity of boards are used, the connections left open on the backplane connectors are subject to noise caused by signal reflections due to lack of termination. Thus, by providing input and output connectors on the power supply module and input/output modules, any quantity of these modules may be serially coupled using ribbon cables, or the like without incurring the additional cost and limitations ordinarily imposed in backplane-based systems. 
   Although illustrative embodiments of the present invention have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawing, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to those precise embodiments and that various other changes and modifications may be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.