RoboteQ Dual Channel Digital Motor Controller AX500 - Manual (Page 146)

Using the Roborun Configuration Utility
146 AX500 Motor Controller User’s Manual Version 1.9b. June 1, 2007
Updating the Controller’s Software
The AX500’s operating software can be easily upgraded after it has left the factory. This
feature makes it possible to add new features and enhance existing ones from time to
time.
Important Warning
Updating the controller will cause all its parameters to reset to their default condi-
tions. You should re-enter these parameters to the desired value prior to re-installing
and using the controller.
The upgrade procedure is quick, easy and error proof:
1- Connect the controller to the PC via the provided RS232 cable.
2- Apply a 12V to 24V power supply to the controller’s Ground and VCon input . Leave
VMot disconnected.
3- Launch the Roborun utility if it is not already running. Then click on the “Update Con-
troller Software” button.
4- If the controller is On, Roborun will find it and prompt the selection of the new soft-
ware file. It may happen that the controller is not responding properly and you may be
asked to reset it while connected.
5- Press the “Program” button to start programming. Do not interrupt or cut the
power to the controller while the new program is loading into Flash memory.
6- After a verification, you will be notified that the operation was successful and you will
see the new software revision and date as reported by the controller.
Notes:
The Updating utility will automatically detect whether the new software is intended for the
main or encoder’s MCU and program one or the other accordingly.
It is a good idea to load the controller’s parameters into the PC and save them to disk prior
to updating the software. After the new software in transferred to the controller, you can
use the “Load Parameters from Disk” function and transfer them to the controller using
the “Save to Controller” button.
Updating the Encoder Software
The Encoder Module has its own dedicated MCU and software in Flash memory. It may be
updated using the Roborun Utility in the same manner as for updating the controller’s soft-
ware (see “Updating the Controller’s Software” on page 146). Then select the new soft-
ware file to download. The file’s content automatically identifies it as software for the
Encoder MCU rather that the Controller’s MCU.
Important Warning