Technical Details
Make Controller Documentation and Downloads
General Architecture/Processing Power
All schematics freely available.
Atmel SAM7X processor, ARM7, 32-bit, 256K Flash, 64K SRAM, up to 55MHz and 48 MIPS — 10x performance increase over most competitors
Two-board layout—general Controller board plugs into specific Application board.
Controller board makes almost all signals from the chip available.
256K EEPROM for additional onboard storage (logging, etc.)
Ethernet PHY for easy connection to Ethernet jack
CAN Transceiver for board-to-board communication
Application board has application specific hardware (motor control, networking (Ethernet/USB/CAN/Serial/SPI), circuit protection.
If a project does not require all the features of the Application board, users can buy just the Controller board, and design their own Application board, including only the features they need. Otherwise, the MAKE Application board allows users to interface directly to relevant devices (sensors, high current outputs for motors, etc.) and not worry that they're going to break the delicate Controller board.
Software Environment/Programmability
Cross Platform—Windows, Mac, Linux. All source provided.
Works as an interface to the PC when connected by Ethernet or USB
Software to use the board as an I/O interface directly from .Net, Processing & Java, Max & Pd, Flash, C/C++.
Can be programmed to run standalone programs
Simplified API available to program the board in C—uses operating system (freeRTOS) so that most difficult aspects of microcontroller programming (interrupts, etc.) are taken care of for less experienced users. Otherwise, full access to the chip is available for experienced coders.
Easily download finished programs developed and shared by others onto your board, no coding required.
Eventually provide further simplified programming environment similar to Wiring/Arduino.
JTAG connector for fast code download and debug.
Several boards can be networked together (CAN) to create more complex devices with more I/O.
I/O/Protection/Power supply
Polarity protection on power supply circuit
8 10-bit analog inputs with op amp unity gain buffer protection.
8 digital outputs through 2 Half H drivers—high current (1A per coil). Drive 2 unipolar stepper motors, 4 DC motors, or 8 individual outputs (solenoids). Output protection circuit to prevent power spikes from noisy output devices affecting the processor. Driver chips are socketed for easy replacement in case they burn, and replacement chips are cheap ($1 each).
4 standard servo connectors
4 LEDs for program feedback
8 position DIP switch for easy configuration
trimpot for easy parameter modification
Getting Started
Self contained unit—ready to connect to sensors, motors, etc. straight out of the box. No additional hardware needed. Comes with simple/common functions pre-programmed on chip for immediate experimentation. Download free software from MakingThings to begin programming/interfacing.
http://www.makingthings.com/resources
Resources