This is the revision A version of the PICBrain11 module. The status of this project is finished.

PICBrain11 Module (Revision A)

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1. Introduction
2. Programming
3. Hardware
- 3.1 Circuit Schematic
- 3.2 Printed Circuit Board
4. Software
5. Issues

1. Introduction

The PICBrain11 module can control up to 11 sensor and actuator modules. It uses a PIC16F876 microcontroller from MicroChip^®. There is on board RS-232 level conversion circuitry so that the PICBrain11 can be directly connected to a PC serial port. There is an on-board 5 volt regulator for supplying regulated voltage to other modules.

2. Programming

There is no programming specification for the PICBrain11 yet.

3. Hardware

The hardware consists of a circuit schematic and a printed circuit board.

3.1 Circuit Schematic

The schematic for the PICBrain11 RoboBrick is shown below:

The parts list kept in a separate file -- picbrain11.ptl.

3.2 Printed Circuit Board

The printed circuit board files are listed below:

picbrain11_back.png: The solder side layer.
picbrain11_front.png: The component side layer.
picbrain11_artwork.png: The artwork layer.
picbrain11.gbl: The RS-274X "Gerber" back (solder side) layer.
picbrain11.gtl: The RS-274X "Gerber" top (component side) layer.
picbrain11.gal: The RS-274X "Gerber" artwork layer.
picbrain11.drl: The "Excellon" NC drill file.
picbrain11.tol: The "Excellon" tool rack file.

4. Software

There is no software for this version of the module.

5. Issues

The following fabrication issues came up:

The voltage regulator interferes with the insertion of the PIC chip. It can be addressed by tilting the regulator to its side. This works but looks ugly.
The SW1 switch labels "ON" and "OFF" are backwards.
The holes for F1 are .3 inches apart, but should only be .2 inches apart.
The artwork on Q1 and Q2 is reversed.
The holes for N13 are too small.
The 1x6 head should probably swap pins 2 and 4 to simplify the cable manufacture.