Re: Outputs

[Rubywand <rubywand@swbell.net>]

Karl Horster writes ...
> 
>         Is there any devices and software that were made for the Apple //,
> that would make it work like a PLC? (Programmable Logic Controller)  Like
> through the serial port you could recieve input and output through relays
> and switch, almost like in an industrial setting? (No X10 stuff)...


     Vernier Software (503-297-5317; http://www.vernier.com ) may still
sell A2 lab equipment interface cards which will do what you want.
Another possibility is Lynxmotion (104 Partridge Road, Pekin, IL
61554-1403; 309-382-1816 http://www.lynxmotion.com ).  They sell Robot
kits, Robot arms, servos, controllers, etc. for PC which may be
adaptable for use on an Apple II

     A good source of current information on robot making, Parallax
BASIC stamp programming, and similar projects is Nuts & Volts Magazine
(800-783-4624; http://www.nutsvolts.com ).


     The easiest way to get lots of lines of I/O for controlling stuff
is a parallel interface board using one or more port IC's (like a 6820,
6520, 6522, 8255, ...).  The Slot board needs just the port chip and a
couple gate IC's to do address decoding. The TTL signals can be run to
external boxes which have thermistor bridges to sample temperature,
solar cells to read light, ..., and power transistors to drive relays,
switch ON indicators, etc..



Rubywand