First time getting PhantomX Turret + ArbotiX Going

[lvicks]

Hello,

I'm new to both the ArbotiX and Dynamixel components. I'm well versed in Atmel chips and general programming.

I constructed my PhantomX board and I'm looking to just test everything then write a simple python server that can control the turret for me. I'm using the CommEXT.py script to test basic functionality / movement. I am currently unable to get the actuators to move.

Here is what I get:

./CommEXT.py /dev/tty.usbserial-A400C242 -1
-1
-1
-1
-1
-1
-1
-1
Digital: -1

Here is what I've troubleshooted

• Power is on and LED is lit
• FTDI wire is correct orientation (tried both orientations, command fails on both, status light only flickers with correct orientation)
• Power jumper set for VIN
• J1 Jumper set to tie RX/TX, although I also tried toggling it.
• Tried changing order of cables into Dynamixel

I can not confirm that the Comm_EXT firmware is loaded onto my ArbotiX board but this is what the turret manual says. I see the same output from CommEXT.py when the FTDI cable is connected to the ArtbotiX and when it is disconnected.

Does anyone have any ideas? I can burn the Comm_EXT if necessary, I assume this is CommExt.pde.
thanks!

[lvicks]

Commander Firmware was not loaded despite manual claims, had to compile and load. Works now.

[lnxfergy]

Trossen stopped uploading firmware some time ago I believe. The product page has been updated, but the manual is still out of date. I'm sure they'll get it updated soon.

-Fergs

[gecf343b1]

Hello,

I'm a complete green horn when it comes to programing, but I like to learn new things and try and figure things out. I got a dumb question I'm hoping someone could help point me in the right direction.

I have a Phantom X Robot Turret, and I was wonder if I should load the Comm_EXT Proportional sketch onto the Arobotix board before trying to setup control using Roborealm?

Listed below is my hardware/software setup:

Windows 7 64 bit
Arduino 0018
Python 2.7.3
wxPython2.8-win32
pyserial-2.5.win32
PhantomX-Robot Turret with 2 each AX-12A servos
ArbotiX robocontroller - FTDI usb cable
Roborealm

Thanks for the help.

[lvicks]

you upload the CommExt applet

[gecf343b1]

Is there GUI software available that emulates the Arbotix Commander?