How to access other Digital inputs on OI?

[DougHogg]

Hi,

I would like to be able to add some digital inputs to the operator interface. I gather there are 2 bytes of digital inputs available. Right now we have 4 joy sticks attached to the 4 ports. That gives us 8 switches, which should use only 1 byte (8 bits), right? If so, what is the best way to connect more on-off switch digital inputs to the operator interface so they can be read using the remaining 8 bits available for digital input?

Thanks in advance for any help you can give me.

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Doug,
I f you check the OI docs from Innovation First you will find a discussion and drawing about using multiple joysticks. If you look carefully, you will note that the only way to get at the other inputs is to build an interface with joystick "D" connectors so that you can break out the digital lines separate from the analog. You then add another connector to pick up the digital inputs and pass them through to the OI. It easier to describe than accomplish, whew! Be careful for as you will notice, many inputs are duplicated on the four ports.

[Nate Smith]

Here's a little something I worked up for my team...ignore the comments on the side, as they were specific to our control program, but this setup allows for all of the buttons and analog axes on the joysticks to still function, while breaking out the LEDs and digital inputs for use...