Maker SHED

Replaced by v2.0  -- available here

A next-generation family of modular, programmable controller boards. The MAKE Controller Kit is an absolute delight to program, and connecting real devices to it is very simple.

• Here are some sample projects built with the MAKE Controller.

Please visit the MAKE Controller Page for full technical specs and additional information.

Technical Details *All schematics freely available. General Architecture/Processing Power *Atmel SAM7X processor, ARM7, 32-bit, 256K Flash, 64K SRAM, up to 55MHz and 48 MIPS � 10x performance increase over most competitors *Two-board layout�general Controller board plugs into specific Application board. o Controller board makes almost all signals from the chip available. + 256K EEPROM for additional onboard storage (logging, etc.) + Ethernet PHY for easy connection to Ethernet jack + CAN Transceiver for board-to-board communication o Application board has application specific hardware (motor control, networking (Ethernet/USB/CAN/Serial/SPI), circuit protection. o If a project does not require all the features of the Application board, users can buy just the Controller board, and design their own Application board, including only the features they need. Otherwise, the MAKE Application board allows users to interface directly to relevant devices (sensors, high current outputs for motors, etc.) and not worry that they're going to break the delicate Controller board. Software Environment/Programmability >Cross Platform�Windows, Mac, Linux. All source provided. >Works as an interface to the PC when connected by Ethernet or USB o Software to use the board as an I/O interface directly from .Net, Processing & Java, Max & Pd, Flash, C/C++. >Can be programmed to run standalone programs o Simplified API available to program the board in C�uses operating system (freeRTOS) so that most difficult aspects of microcontroller programming (interrupts, etc.) are taken care of for less experienced users. Otherwise, full access to the chip is available for experienced coders. o Easily download finished programs developed and shared by others onto your board, no coding required. o Eventually provide further simplified programming environment similar to Wiring/Arduino. >JTAG connector for fast code download and debug. >Several boards can be networked together (CAN) to create more complex devices with more I/O. I/O/Protection/Power supply >Polarity protection on power supply circuit >8 10-bit analog inputs with op amp unity gain buffer protection. >8 digital outputs through 2 Half H drivers�high current (1A per coil). Drive 2 unipolar stepper motors, 4 DC motors, or 8 individual outputs (solenoids). Output protection circuit to prevent power spikes from noisy output devices affecting the processor. Driver chips are socketed for easy replacement in case they burn, and replacement chips are cheap ($1 each). >4 standard servo connectors >4 LEDs for program feedback >8 position DIP switch for easy configuration >trimpot for easy parameter modification