TEACH-IN 2008 — Using PIC Microcontrollers
PART 2 OF OUR NEW EDUCATIONAL SERIES

Programme basic commands, plus simple LED control

Everyday Practical Electronics is famed for its educational contents, publishing our highly popular "Teach-In" series every two years.

Our new series for 2008 is subtitled Using PIC Microcontrollers and focuses on the PIC range of devices manufactured by Arizona Microchip, who claim to have produced over 5 billion devices over the years. As EPE readers will know, the PICmicro is our device of choice for microcontroller projects for well over 10 years and our new series builds on our extensive experience of using these devices.

Teach-In 2008 is based on our tried and trusted Toolkit TK3 software for PIC micro programming, and uses a range of breadboard projects that take you step by step through the development of PICmicro source code.

 

Please see March 2008 issue (Page 57) for an update on Listings 2.1 to 2.3

 

PIC Speech Synthesiser

Enables you to add simple speech to your PIC powered projects. Uses freeware phenome library stored in an EEPROM to construct words for outputting to your audio amplifier. Free VB6 software allows programs to be recorded and files created. The EPE PIC Speech Synthesiser runs in Windows up to XP, and the project requires an RS232 serial port on your PC.

 

MIDI Drum Kit (Part 1)

A fabulous low cost "drum kit" that can produce just about any musical sound you can think of. There's no drum skin in sight and you don't even need to buy a pair of drumsticks! Sound output via a computer and speakers or via a synthesiser. 546 different drum sounds, up to 7 instruments at one time. Percussion plate, hand plate and foot activation.

 

Up to 21 instruments selectable for the standard kit, 7 extra kits with MIDI 2 . LCD display shows sensor selections, patch and volume level and settings. Midi out, sound card (DB15) or serial (DB9) connections available. USB operation possible via a serial to USB converter. Too many more features to list here!

 

AVR ISP Socketboard

When used in conjunction with an AVR in-system programmer (ISP), our AVR ISP socketboard enables you to program Atmel microcontrollers on the spot! No expensive production programmer or development system needed. This design supports just about all dual-in-line AVR microcontrollers and also includes over-current protection.

 

Charger for your iPod or MP3 Player

This charger can be used to recharge an iPod-type or MP3 player without connecting to your computer's USB port. It can be powered using a DC plugpack or from 12V DC in your car and it can also be used to power any accessory normally run from a USB port.

• Switched mode design.
• 5V 660mA output voltage.
• +9.5V to 15V d.c. input voltage , reverse polarity protected
• Output short circuit limited

 

SPECIAL FEATURE: Protecting your Designs and Copyright - help prevent piracy or copying of your work with hints and tips provided by a specialist Intellectual Property lawyer. Circuit Surgery on using SPICE Simulations. Interface asks whether Visual Basic 6 has finally had its day. TechnoTalk alludes to future developments in technology based on naturally occuring phenomena; PIC n MIX for PICmicro fans - using LCD menus. Net Work - the Internet column on alternatives to Microsoft Word and backwards compatibility with the Word 2007 version of the ubiquitous word processor.

 

Source codes 1207.zip

PCB artwork pcb1207.zip

 

PCB artwork

 

As from July 2013 issue PCB artwork is available free to subscribers only.

 

Non-subscribers may purchase artwork files for a nominal sum. Please contact our Orders Dept for information or to place an order.

 

EPE Printed Circuit Boards

 

We can supply ready-made printed circuit boards (8-digit order codes) to the original design specification via mail order or from our Online Shop.