Using serial device and with output to computer

Projects General Guidance
1

I'm doing a project with a rotary encoder and it interfaces by either SPI or UART (default). Device seen here:http://www.dmm-tech.com/14BitsAbsoluteEncoder.html.

I have an Arduino Uno and I'm wondering is it some how possible to interface with this device and output data back to my computer at the same time or would I most likely have to upgrade to a Arduino Mega?

Thanks in advance.

2

would I most likely have to upgrade to a Arduino Mega?

Only if you want a shiny new toy. For what you've described, the Uno is overkill. A "usb ttl cable" will do what you've describe and I believe you can get them for less than $5.

Or, if you want to use the Uno...

Download this...
http://arduiniana.org/libraries/newsoftserial/

Install it.

Pick any pair of unused pins.

Build your Sketch.

Done.

Or, if you'd prefer SPI...

http://www.arduino.cc/playground/Code/Spi
http://www.google.com/search?q=arduino+spi

3

Well this is a school project for a camless engine design so the board is controlling actuators and reading feedback sensors on the valves too. Plus it's their funding so its a "free" shinny new toy.

That NewSoftSerial looks interesting. Gonna have to read up on that.