CMU / RC / programming error
 

I just receive an email from Team 1401 in Mexico. I've inserted the message below. Our team is not using the CMU camera so we have no experience and really can't help. However, I know enough to post a query on Chief Delphi.

If you can help, please reply and I'll forward it.

<< Request for help from team 1401:

Hi Allan

It is great to talk to you once again; and, as always, asking for some help. This time our problem is related with the CMU camera. I hope you could help us.

Solved the common problems with this device like calibrating, updating or testing PC communication, what I can not solve is the communication between CMU camera and the RC microcontroller.

I already run the TTL-232 card basic troubleshooting and, in step 3 point C, it seems like there is no response from the camera card. Moreover running the FRC code v2.4 that includes CMU camera code, it displays the "no card connected" message.

I thought that the problem comes from the RC card program, so I find an update for the RC, but it still does not work. I am checking the RC code and I found that communication with MCU camera depends on some libraries that I do not understand. Or could be an error in the TTL port configuration, I am not sure.

Well I do not know what else I can tell you; so, if you could give me some light in this darkness. We will appreciate it.

Please give a handshake to Freddy

Miguel Toledo

Re: CMU / RC / programming error
 

Step one: make sure the camera is receiving power. Is the pwm cable connected between an unused pwm output and the camera power connector? Is there a properly charged backup battery connected to the RC?

Re: CMU / RC / programming error
 

Tell them to make sure that the backup battery is plugged in and well-charged. The camera won't respond if the battery isn't well charged.

Matt

Re: CMU / RC / programming error
 

I sent your suggestions on. These guys are sharp, but they usually get their kit late (customs) and they are deep in Mexico.

Last year when they came to the Arizona Regional, the Mexican customs told them they could bring their tools but they would not be able to bring them back to Mexico. Everyone lent them tools. They left with a lot of good experiences and are very excited about this year.

Thanks,
Allan