The CommBoard is a communication interface designed
to connect the MicroMag and V2Xe modules to a host
system that uses a standard serial interface, such as a PC.
It is typically used as a prototyping and evaluation tool
for PNI’s line of compass and magnetometer modules.
The PNI CommBoard is also used for production when
the host system requires a higher level serial protocol to
interface to the PNI sensor modules. The first version of
the PNI CommBoard features a user selectable RS-232 or
RS-485 interface to the host system. The CommBoard
developer kit comes with software for the PC that has a
graphical user interface (GUI) to control every aspect of
the CommBoard and any PNI module that is attached to
it.
In the future, different interfaces may be made available
as customer needs are identified. Please contact PNI for
support with your custom interface high-volume opportunity
Features
• Small size: 53 x 25 x 11 mm
• RS-232 and RS-485 interfaces for connection with PCs
or other serial interface systems
• GUI control software available from PNI, either as part
of the developer kit or via the web
• Built-in support for PNI MicroMag and V2Xe sensor
modules, as well as several future products
• Voltage regulator converts 6 - 12 VDC to 3 VDC for
power to the sensor modules
• Minimal code changes required when upgrading from
PNI’s TCM-2 line of tilt compensated magnetometer
compass modules
Applications
• Fast compass and magnetometer prototyping
• New product evaluation
• Education, school projects
• Any legacy compass application that has an RS-232
interface but needs the performance of the new PNI
products
• Production applications where standards based protocols
are preferred over SPI
