Newbie: Can I do this?

Forum 2005-2010 (read only) Hardware Interfacing
1

Hi guys,

New to this. Hoping I can use the Arduino to solve a problem. I have an ECU engine computer I would like to interface with a data logging device. They both have serial connections, however the communication protocol is different. What I need to do is poll the ECU device for values 10x per second, then simply reformat it and send it right over to the logging device. Seems pretty simple.

Is this something I can do with the Arduino? I assume I would need a Mega?

Any help appreciated!

2

The only thing yet unknown is how much a single poll takes, and how large is the data.

3

Each poll would consist of 36 bytes of data.

Thanks!

4

It may be possible to use a standard 168/328 Arduino by using software serial. I use it with a degree of success although only between 2 Arduinos :

http://arduiniana.org/libraries/NewSoftSerial/

5

Well, I don't mind getting the arduino mega if that would work best. I need to talk to the one device at 57600 and the other at 19200.

6

That is very much in the realm of the arduino mega. In fact it is almost trivial, you just need to setup 2 serial ports

You could probably use an arduino normal and use the serial port for the faster device, while using a software serial for the slower. Be prepared for a challenge though :wink:

7

Thanks! My goal is quick and easy :wink:

The one device is TTL, so I'm assuming I'd only need one MAX232 for the other which is RS232. Correct?

Thanks again.

EDIT: Could I use this: SparkFun RS232 Shifter - SMD - PRT-00449 - SparkFun Electronics for the conversion from RS232 to connect to the arduino?

Thanks!

8

Another question!!

One of the devices (the 57600 one) I still need to talk to with a computer. Is it possible to allow communication directly to it through the USB port? Could I put the other 2 devices on say Serial1 and Serial2, let them talk when they need to, and all other times make the USB act like a bridge right to Serial1?

Thanks!